The Setting Sun

"One evening I received a hint from the setting sun that all creation is beyond thought. The setting sun knows nothing about the setting sun, but it is the setting sun."

-- Sodo Yokoyama

Thought won't cut it. Try as you might, you can't understand the world (all creation) by thinking about it. You can't cogitate yourself out of the problems of existence. Maybe because the problems are of your own making -- there is nothing to understand!

The setting sun exists, as does all creation, in a world untouched by human thought. It just is. That may not sound like any big deal, but if you truly "get it," you are free. Free of attempting to use your rational faculties to understand, or make meaning of, life. Life is to be lived, enjoyed, experienced -- all meaning-making is secondary. Meaning is the consolation prize for a life not fully lived.

And what about that setting sun? It teaches not by word, but by being. Unaware of its power, it nevertheless conveys deep insight. And it's just not the setting sun. Every natural phenomena, be it sunrise or summer storm, foggy morning or gently falling snow grants us its power and depth. "He who has eyes, let him see," as our good buddy JC purportedly intoned.

So, today, on the autumnal equinox, hang out a bit with nature. Welcome her hints, revel in her power and depth. And know hers to be yours as well. Beyond thought, Being. Just what is. No problem.