The Root of the Problem

A problem cannot be solved if you look at it in isolation. Instead, you must go to the root of the problem and then find the solution. In other words, you have to see the cause of the problem in order to change it.

When we encounter a difficulty, it is tempting to think, “It does not help at all just to meditate. I have to actively solve the problem. Meditation is too passive!” This is incorrect. Actually, meditation can calm the mind, which is absolutely necessary if you want to solve a problem. This is because you have to recognize the pattern that manifests the suffering and difficulty. You must find it first, or you will not go beyond it.

Regardless of what you do, your effort will not be right unless you first have a calm mind. Calmness brings understanding, so it is essential to have calmness.

~ by Zen Master Miao Tsan