Dear Friend,

You told me that you are very tired, unsettled and therefore are especially missing me aboard in America.

This is not the first time that I have received your letter.  But it is the first time that I have heard you complain.  In the past, you were always full of joy and you could not wait to share your successful stories with me, such as your full and busy schedule and all the assignments from your Master that keep you going like a horse galloping nonstop through the days and nights.  I could always see your high spirits from the pride that is evident in the words and sentences of your letters.

My friend, it is very dangerous to base your happiness on your achievements.  Because of the impermanence of this world,your mind will be forever unsettled if you continue to try to hold on to or pursue something with this ever arising and ceasing phenomena.  In the current depressed economy, how many people face the gloom of losing their job.  And as a result, many people have buried themselves and lose the direction of their life.  They get drunk, use drugs, and even commit crimes, toally destroying themselves.  Why?  Because they have the same view as yours that always looks outwards and forgets to taking care of their own mind.

Someone told me that he could not stand being alone in a place.  If his family are not at home, he has to turn on the television very loud because a quiet place makes him scared.  Therefore, I always praise the members of the meditation class that they have such merit, wisdom and courage to enjoy the happiness of peace and tranquility.

Because the Emperor Liang did not appreciate his teaching, Master Bodhi Dharma crossed the river on top of a straw of reed to Shao Ling Temple where he meditated facing the wall and waited for someone who would have the right connection with him to receive his teaching.  After the passing of nine summers and winters, finally Hui Ke appeared.  In order to show his determination to seek the teaching of Dharma, Hui Ke cut off one of his arms without any regret.  Master Bodhi Dharma was finally moved.

Master Bodhi Dharma: "What kind of Dharma are you seeking?"

Hui Ke: "My mind is unsettled.  Could Master compassionately settle my mind?"

Master Bodhi Dharma: "Show me your mind and I will settle it for you!"

Hui Ke: "I cannot find my mind!"

Master Bodhi Dharma: "I have already settled your mind!"

Hui Ke achieved great enlightenment at that very moment.  Afterwards, he became the second lineage holder of the Zen Sect.  Master Bodhi Dharma did not actually settle Hui Ke's mind.  When Master Bodhi Dharma asked him to find his unsettled mind, for the very first time he visualized inwards for his mind and at that moment his mind was settled.

My dear friend whether we have a settled or unsettled mind does not depend on external gain or lose.  If you are always seeking outwards, then you will never have a peaceful mind.  You should learn how to visualize inwards to know yourself, to listen to your nature and to find your true mind.  It is just like a mother whose child is playing outside.  When it gets dark, afraid that the child might be lost and not able to find home, she hurriedly goes out to look for her son.  Only you know what your child looks like and only you can guide him home safely.

Please write to me more often and let me know your situation.  Ok?

Wishing you well!