虛堂和尚語錄 2.117

2.117

At the informal gathering for the winter solstice: "The single breath harmoniously rises, and the hundred creations begin to sprout; at this time, people know it exists. But do you know the one who does not know it exists, who is not shifted by cold or heat, does not follow the waxing and waning of the four seasons, is quiet yet responds well, and stands out brilliantly above the crowd? If it is said that eyebrows one foot two inches long grow beneath his chin, this again is not yet having seen him completely. This mountain monk's mouth is usually like a pillar base, never easily breaking it open to people. If you see it clearly, black beans sprouting and embroidered patterns adding thread are also ordinary seasons. But tell me, will you still come tonight to eat fruit?" He struck with his staff: "Chewing rice to feed an infant."