2023ZenStory7-8

Story 7. Tanzan and his last message on postal cards (Announcement) In the final days of his life, Tanzan, a renowned Zen master, sat down and wrote sixty postal cards. Each card bore a simple yet profound message. Once Tanzan finished writing, he entrusted an attendant with the task of mailing them. The cards read: "I am departing from this world. This is my last announcement." Shortly after completing the cards, Tanzan peacefully passed away, leaving behind a legacy of wisdom and contemplation. This story speaks to the impermanence of life and the acceptance of mortality. Tanzan, aware of his impending departure from the physical world, took the opportunity to leave a final message. The simplicity of the message underscores the transience of human existence and serves as a reminder to embrace the present moment. The teaching imparted by this story is twofold. First, it emphasizes the importance of recognizing and accepting the impermanence of life. Tanzan, being a Zen master, understood that death is an integral part of the human experience. By acknowledging his imminent passing, he offered a lesson in confronting mortality with grace and clarity. Secondly, the story underscores the significance of leaving a lasting impact. Though Tanzan's announcement was brief, it carried profound weight and invited reflection. By writing the postal cards, Tanzan ensured that his final message would reach others, extending his teachings beyond his physical existence. It serves as a reminder that the impact we make on others can continue long after we are gone. Furthermore, the story highlights the power of simplicity in conveying profound truths. Tanzan's concise message cuts through the complexities of life, inviting contemplation and encouraging the listener to reflect on their own existence. It reminds us that sometimes, the most potent teachings can be found in the simplest expressions. In essence, the story of Tanzan and the sixty postal cards invites us to embrace the transient nature of life, live in the present moment, and consider the legacy we leave behind. It encourages us to reflect on the profound impact our actions and words can have on others, reminding us that even a simple message can carry immense power and touch the lives of many.

8. Great Waves Title: O-nami's Transformation In the days of the Meiji era, there lived a renowned wrestler named O-nami, known as Great Waves for his immense strength and wrestling prowess. However, despite his skill, he faced a perplexing problem. While he could triumph over his teacher during training sessions, he consistently failed to secure victory in actual wrestling matches against his fellow students. Troubled by his predicament, O-nami sought the guidance of a wise Zen master. Sharing his struggle, he humbly approached the Zen master and expressed his dilemma. Curious, the Zen master looked at him and inquired, "What is your name?" O-nami, taken aback by the unexpected question, hesitated for a moment and replied, "Beralai." Understanding the deeper meaning behind O-nami's response, the Zen master perceived the root of his struggle. With a compassionate smile, the Zen master imparted his wisdom. "Great Waves is your name," the Zen master began. "Tonight, stay in this temple and immerse yourself in its essence. Envision yourself as those powerful billows, no longer a wrestler plagued by fear. Embrace your true nature as the mighty waves that sweep everything before them, consuming all in their path. Embody this and you shall become the greatest wrestler in the land." Having shared his guidance, the Zen master retired, leaving O-nami to contemplate his words. Sitting in deep meditation, O-nami embarked on a journey to envision himself as the very embodiment of the waves. He explored various thoughts, gradually focusing more and more on the essence of the waves themselves. As the night unfolded, the visualization grew more vivid. The waves swelled in O-nami's consciousness, growing larger and more powerful with each passing moment. The imaginary waves surged forward, sweeping away the flowers in their vases and even engulfing the serene Buddha statue in the shrine. Before the break of dawn, the temple had transformed into an oceanic expanse, the ebb and flow of an immense sea. When the morning light illuminated the temple, the Zen master discovered O-nami in a state of deep meditation, a subtle smile adorning his face. The Zen master approached O-nami and gently patted his shoulder. "Now, nothing can disturb you," the Zen master said, his voice filled with assurance. "You have become one with the waves, capable of sweeping away all obstacles in your path." Embued with newfound confidence and clarity, O-nami took part in the wrestling contests that very day. To the astonishment of all, he emerged victorious, defeating all opponents who stood before him. From that day onward, O-nami remained undefeated, becoming an unbeatable force in the wrestling world of Japan.