禪林寶訓 3.78

3.78

The venerable Bian said: 'When Fozhi resided at Xichan, the monks were required to be neat and uniform. Only Shui'an, endowed by nature with tranquility and aloofness, maintained himself with the barest minimum, standing out proud and lofty in the dense crowd without the least concern. Fozhi saw him and reprimanded him, saying, "Why are you so slovenly and ragged?" Shui'an replied, "It is not that I dislike comfort, but simply that out of poverty I lack the means. Were I to have money, I too would like to make a fur garment or two to join the festive gatherings. Since I am poor, there is indeed nothing to be done." Fozhi laughed, realized he could not be forced, and thereupon let the matter rest.' (Yueku Collection)