In the movie “The Journey to the West: Demons and Monsters,” there is such a line: “Having experienced pain, one understands the suffering of all beings; having been attached, one can let go of attachments; having had concerns, one achieves a state of no concern.” Yet we are ordinary people and ultimately cannot sever our concerns or let go of our attachments.
Often, we find ourselves at a loss, unable to move forward. At such times, it can be beneficial to calm down and Brew a Cup of Tea for ourselves. Then we will realize that being too attached can easily harm oneself.
Many times, as you slowly prepare a cup of tea and think about it, you will discover that people should live in the present, not indulging in fantasies about the past or future, nor clinging to what might have been. Only then will your mind be at peace and rest easy.
The scenery before your eyes, the flowers blooming along the way—sometimes there are things you don't understand, causing confusion and hesitation, while other times there are moments of delight, leading to forgetfulness and indulgence. In the present moment, when faced with obstacles, you may be uncertain of which direction to take, or when things go smoothly, you may linger and hesitate to move on.
It's not a bad idea to look ahead and imagine various possibilities for the future, or to reflect on past events, in order to alleviate your current predicament.
Being attached weighs heavily on your present, but knowing the Sweetness of the future helps you endure today's hardships, and reflecting on yesterday's laziness leads to regret. Why make life so rigid? Enjoy the mountains and rivers, and savor a cup of tea. Why be overly cautious at every turn, standing like a pine or sitting like a bell?
Give yourself some moments of leisure, find a secluded path with wildflowers, explore a tranquil retreat, and boil a pot of tea. Set aside your current troubles and imagine all the beautiful scenarios that could unfold in the future. Look back in reminiscence, immersing yourself in moments of pure joy.
Life is often unpredictable. We have no control over its joys and sorrows, but we can let go of our attachments. Do not cling to things because of your own attachments.
Most things can fade with time, and there is no obstacle in life that cannot be overcome.
In life, accept impermanence and let go of attachments. No matter what kind of unease and pain life brings you, you must still smile and keep going. Clinging to something without letting go is not cherishing—it is a form of self-inflicted harm.
When it comes to life, know when to let go. Be more generous and open-minded, and you will find that life isn't as bad as you think it is.