Buddha Nature

We may know that we are Buddha nature, but for some of us this is not real knowledge. As one writer has said it is only hearsay. Something that’s been said or told to us, even though it’s unrealized we may still accept on faith.

"However, our unrealized Buddha nature does not illuminate and transform our everyday lives. It is somewhat like having talent for music the potential is real but remains unactivated and unrealized…. If the individual begins to practice, the talent itself will become evident in the practice. If the talented person does not begin to practice,…" it is the same has not having the ability. *

For Buddha nature to be realized reality requires practice, sitting quietly, in an upright position, letting your body and mind settle. Although thoughts will arise, have no aversion or attraction to the thoughts, no attachment to them, have no preference for whatever arises. Being present in each moment. Imagine when you fill a glass with water, at first the water may appear somewhat cloudy but eventually the water becomes clear. This is how it is to meditate. Sitting meditation (zazen), itself is the manifestation of Buddha nature.

*Francis Dojun Cook, How to Raise An Ox, Zen Practice as Taught in Master Dogen’s Shobogenzo, p.6