Soen Shaku, the first Zen teacher in America, said: “My heart burns with fire, but my eyes are cold, like cooled ashes.” He developed the following rules, which he followed every day throughout his life.
In the morning, before getting dressed, light a stick of incense and meditate. Go to bed at the same time every night. Eat food at regular intervals. Eat in moderation and never become satisfied. When receiving guests, remain the same as you are alone. When you are alone, behave in the same way as when receiving guests. Watch what you say, and whatever you say, do it. When an opportunity arises, don't miss it, but before you do, always think twice. Don't regret the past. Look to the future. Gain the undaunted willingness of a hero and the loving heart of a child. When you go to bed, fall asleep as if this dream is your last. When you wake up, leave the bed immediately, as if throwing away old shoes.
Translated from Russian · original on wisdomlib.ru