Pure Mountain Tao

In a vase, it is the emptiness within that makes it useful. For all the distractions, noise, and cacophony that permeates our lives, it is the gentle silence that one should desire to hear the most. Just as the wise sage learns to read between the lines to understand the true meaning of something, the wise one will also learn from the great silences. When dealing with people, remember that often what is not said is of greater importance than what is said. In everyday life, try to avoid the pointless din. Get away from the mind numbing racket of the radio or television. Bask in the tranquility of peace. When we have the great silence, we can hear so much more; our own heartbeats, thoughts. The great silence can be found in nature. Let nature provide the soundtrack whenever possible. When you come home, just sit down and listen. What do you hear? The sound of the leaves dancing in the wind, the gentle tapping of the rain on the window, the bird in the tree outside your window? How do they make you feel? Relaxed, at peace, and with a feeling of oneness?