an old writer and his words

  • TEACHING AND NOT TEACHING

    When you find a teacher what is it you expect from him? Do you walk carefully in his footsteps insuring you do not stray an inch from the path on which he leads you? A true teacher will ask that you turn away from him and give you a shove that has you stumbling forward…

    Lou Faber

  • FINDING A DIAMOND 沙石集 二

    There are endless paths on which to walk, yet we find one and remain on it even when it becomes rocky and rutted. We do not see the road, nor those who cross it, watching only our feet. It is only when we step off of the cliff that our feet are free to walk…

    Lou Faber

  • KINKA’S ANCIENT MIRROR

    A river may rub a stone until it reflects the morning sun. A jeweler may polish it and facet it until it shatters the light in ten directions. A wise man knows it is still the same stone.   A reflection on Shobogenzo Case 117

    Lou Faber

  • CLIFFSIDE AGAIN: HEKIGANROKU CASE 5

    HSUEH FENG’S GRAIN OF RICE It is not the seeing but the looking that will drive you to the edge. It is easy to see, you hardly need eyes for that task, but to look is beyond seeing. Do you think this a mere grain of rice? Look closely, do you see the entire world?…

    Lou Faber

  • PERIPHERAL VISION

    Open your eyes. What do you see?             The sky Close your eyes. What do you see?             Nothing  Then open your eyes. What do you see?             The sky Close your eyes. What do you see?             Nothing Now open your eyes. What do you see?             The sky             and a large hawk…

    Lou Faber