Sunday, September 10, 2006

White Beads


Look: a tortoise wearing a sword climbs the lampstand.
Should you desire the great tranquility,
Prepare to sweat white beads.
*
- Hakuin

1 comment:

Sleeping Lotus said...

I felt the poem by Hakuin fit with the painting of the Flagellation of Christ by Michael O'Brien. The poem, to me, reflects the Gospel message of Christ that the Way is to be walked by a narrow path. It's not easy to arrive at tranquility, peace and serenity in the prayer life. It can be attained (of course it can, or otherwise why bother?!) but it takes sacrifice and work and patience. Prepare to sweat white beads (pearls). I really love that line!