Meditation Point #139

Realization doesn’t destroy the individual any more
than the reflection of the moon breaks a drop of water.
A drop of water can reflect the whole sky.
– – Dōgen

The quote “Realization doesn’t destroy the individual any more than the reflection of the moon breaks a drop of water. A drop of water can reflect the whole sky.” by Dōgen is a powerful reminder of the importance of being open to self-realization and the world around us. It’s easy to become closed off or to hide from reality, but as mature adults, we should be able to face the truth without fear of harm.

One of the main themes of this quote is the idea that realization or truth does not destroy the individual. This is an important point to consider because many people may avoid self-reflection or facing the truth out of fear that it will harm them in some way. However, this fear is often unfounded. In fact, coming to terms with reality can be empowering and liberating.

When we face the truth, we are better equipped to make informed decisions and take action to improve our lives. We can see things more clearly and make choices based on reality rather than our own biases or beliefs. This can lead to personal growth and positive change.

The quote also speaks to the idea of reflection and how a drop of water can reflect the whole sky. This is a metaphor for how we as individuals can reflect the world around us. We are not separate from the world but are interconnected with it. Our thoughts, actions, and beliefs are influenced by the world around us, and we, in turn, influence the world.

This is important to remember because it highlights our responsibility as individuals to be mindful of our impact on the world. We cannot live in isolation, and our actions have consequences. We need to be aware of how we reflect the world around us and strive to make a positive impact.

Furthermore, the quote suggests that we should not be afraid to seek realization or truth. Realization is an important aspect of personal growth and self-discovery. It’s through realization that we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Realization helps us to identify areas for improvement and to make positive changes in our lives.

It’s important to note that realization can be a difficult process. It may involve confronting uncomfortable truths about ourselves or the world around us. However, the quote suggests that we should not be afraid of this process. Realization does not destroy us but rather helps us to grow and evolve as individuals.

The quote by Dōgen is a powerful reminder of the importance of being open to self-realization and the world around us. It encourages us to face reality without fear and to recognize our interconnectedness with the world. Realization is an important aspect of personal growth and self-discovery, and we should not be afraid to seek it out. Through realization, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world, make positive changes, and reflect the beauty of the world around us.

Please follow and like us: