I was at a point where I was ready to say I am what I am because of what I am and if you like me I'm grateful, and if you don't, what am I going to do about it?
Anne BancroftRead
Zen is not interested in high-flown statements; it wants its pupil to bite his apple and not discuss it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Zen emphasizes direct experience over theoretical discussion.
This quote highlights the essence of Zen philosophy, which prioritizes practical engagement and direct experience over abstract theories and discussions. It suggests that true understanding comes from experiencing life directly rather than merely talking about it. The metaphor of 'biting the apple' signifies the importance of living in the moment and fully immersing oneself in experiences.
Themes
ZenExperiencePhilosophyPracticalityUnderstanding
In practice
Example use cases
In a mindfulness seminar to emphasize the importance of living in the present.
More from Anne Bancroft
All quotes βSimilar quotes
Experience is the child of thought, and thought is the child of action.
Benjamin DisraeliRead
The gentlest thing in the world overcomes the hardest thing in the world. That which has no substance enters where there is no space. This shows the value of non-action. Teaching without words, performing without actions: that is the Master's way.
LaoziRead
Yes, you should talk," he said. "Sometimes a sad man can talk the sadness right out through his mouth. Sometimes a killin' man can talk the murder right out of his mouth.
John SteinbeckRead
Fits of depression come over the most of us. Usually cheerful as we may be, we must at intervals be cast down. The strong are not always vigorous, the wise not always ready, the brave not always courageous, and the joyous not always happy.
Charles SpurgeonRead
There's something special for everyone to do. Remember, no experience is a bad experience unless you gain nothing from it.
Lyndon B. JohnsonRead
Nothing focuses your mind quite like flying a jet. That's one reason NASA requires that astronauts fly T-38s: it forces us to concentrate and prioritize in some of the same ways we need to in a rocket ship.
Chris HadfieldRead