12 Quotes by Ryokan

Keep your heart clearAnd transparent,And you willNever be bound.A single disturbed thoughtCreates ten thousand distractions.

Too lazy to be ambitious,I let the world take care of itself.Ten days' worth of rice in my bag;a bundle of twigs by the fireplace.Why chatter about delusion and enlightenment?Listening to the night rain on my roof,I sit comfortably, with both legs stretched out.

In this world of dreams, drifting off still more; and once again speaking and dreaming of dreams. Just let it be.

When all thoughtsAre exhaustedI slip into the woodsAnd gatherA pile of shepherd's purse.Like the little streamMaking its wayThrough the mossy crevicesI, too, quietlyTurn clear and transparent.

The plants and flowersI raised about my hutI now surrenderTo the willOf the wind

Why do you so earnestly seek the truth in distant places?Look for delusion and truth in thebottom of your own heart.

I must go there today -Tomorrow the plum blossomsWill scatter.

Someday I'll be a weather-beaten skull resting on a grass pillow,Serenaded by a stray bird or two.Kings and commoners end up the same,No more enduring than last night's dream.

Good friends and excellent teachers - Stick close to them! Wealth and power are fleeting dreams but wise words perfume the world for ages.