禪林寶訓 4.33

4.33

Vice Minister Lord You said to Zhuo'an, "In the past, Miaoxi revived the way of Linji in an autumn of withering decline, yet his nature still valued modesty and humility, and he never galloped off into speculative views. Throughout his life he did not hasten toward power and influence, nor did he carelessly seek profit and support. He once said: 'The myriad affairs must not be conducted with indolent pleasure, nor maintained with an attitude of extravagance. For what is advantageous to the moment and convenient for material things may bring faults without any merit; if one indulges in extravagance and indolence, nothing will succeed.' Unworthy as I am, I take these words to heart and make them my lifelong admonition. Yesterday, Venerable Teacher, you met the Sovereign, who had you lodge overnight at the Guantang; this is truly the fortune of the Buddha Dharma. I earnestly hope that with untiring vows of compassion, you will open and brighten the path of advancing the good, and make the way of taking charge of the assembly even greater, so that perhaps the younger generations will not scheme for near-term habits, but each harbor far-reaching plans. Would this not bring benefit and salvation to the monastic grove?" (Recorded Hear-say of Attendant Ran)