If I were to sum up what I understand from Master Sheng Yen's teachings, it is that he has given me a spiritual anchor. His teachings have allowed me to remember to stay centered in awareness, when things are difficult and I am facing the demons of my afflictions and vexations. I believe that the real gift that Venerable Sheng Yen has given to the world was his ability to make Dharma teachings accessible and easy to understand for people from all walks of life. This is what leads me to respect Master Sheng Yen and see him as my Dharma teacher.
Dharma is simple and profound: it is going back to this mind, this present, this body, this time, this awareness. Doing this moment to moment, one is grounded in what's really happening, not wandering thoughts of what could be but hasn't happened, or what has past and is already gone. This simplicity of Chan allows me to recognize that most of my thoughts aren't really worth the anxiety I put into them. What can't be finished today will wait until tomorrow, and what can be done today can be done with steadfast resolve.
Which brings me to my doctoral thesis: Will it ever be done? Well, if I think this way, there is no enjoyment, and hardly any learning. Enjoying the process of being just in this moment is very important. And I hope to explore similar topics in the future.
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