Pure Mountain Tao

The unwise one feels that he is only the body, and therefore he experiences the universe as being outside of himself. That is to say that he thinks that all things are existing or somewhere in space; in his view, earth or space are the base for all. The sage on the other hand, does not limit himself as a body and therefore knows that he is not in the universe but that it is in him. 

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The Three Thousand Worlds

that step forward

with the light snow,

and the light snow that falls

in those Three Thousand Worlds.

- Ryokan, 1758-1851

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Students of meditation often ask about whether they should have their eyes open or closed during mediation. Different methods teach one or the other. The best method is to determine what works best for you. If you are sleepy, one should keep their eyes open to avoid falling asleep. If one is wide awake but distracted easily, then the eyes should be closed at least half-way or totally. Experiment and see what is comfortable for you.