In Buddhism we do not
regard any being as outside of our own true self, no matter how small
or repulsive – an earthworm or a tick – nor how large and lofty –
an enlightened bodhisattva like Jizo [Ksitigarbha]. Our proper
relationship then to an earthworm is not to withdraw in disgust from
it; our proper relationship to a bodhisattva is not to admire or
worship from afar. If we enter spiritual practice hoping to know
ourselves completely, then our proper attitude toward all creation is
one of curiosity and ultimately of communion. To know ourselves we
must truly know all beings – from earthworm to bodhisattva –
intimately.
---Jan Chozen Bays---
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