In the early 20th century, Zen master Nan-in received a university professor who came to ask about Zen. But instead the professor only spoke about his own ideas. On and on the professor spoke.
During the professor's speaking, Nan-in served tea. He poured the professor’s cup full, and then, while the man continued to speak, Nan-in kept on pouring the tea. The professor watched the overflow until he could no longer restrain himself.
“You fool! It is overfull. No more will go in!”
Nan-in replied, “Like this cup, you are also too full of your own opinions and speculations. How can I show you Zen unless you first empty your mind?”
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