zen

Before Enlightenment chop wood, carry water. After enlightenment chop wood, carry water. -Zen Proverb

A fair reputation is a plant, delicate in its nature, and by no means rapid in its growth. It will not shoot up in a night like the gourd of the prophet; but, like that gourd, it may perish in a night. -Jeremy Taylor

Life and death are of supreme importance. Time swiftly passes by and opportunity is lost. Each of us should strive to awaken. Awaken. Take heed, do not squander your life. – Dogen Zenji

Solitude is as needful to the imagination as society is wholesome for the character. – James Russel Lowell