In 1989, Bill Porter traveled through the Chungnan Mountains to discover the remains of China's ancient hermit tradition.
Originally, Porter thought that hermits couldn't possibly have endured the persecution that occurred in the 20th century. He learned that hermits not only continue their practice, but continue it with great vigor. Here's a dialogue between Porter and one of the hermits he encountered:
Why come to the mountains? It is a good place to practice.
Did there used to be more hermits? There used to be more, and now there are less.
Is it a good place because it is quiet? If people are quiet, they can be quiet anywhere.
Isn't it hard? After a while, it's all the same.
Isn't it cold in the winter? Winters are a good time to practice.
How do you practice? I just pass the time.
Do you practice very much? Practice is the only thing that matters. Have some tea.
Source: Road to Heaven, by Bill Porter
Photograph by Emiana
Maybe enlightenment is like the old joke of "How do you get to Carnegie Hall?" practice, practice, practice
Posted by: bob | November 19, 2009 at 03:58 AM
Hahhaa, marvellous! :) Thank you for sharing!
Posted by: Uku | November 19, 2009 at 11:25 AM
:) you can also see this book as a movie-- "Amongst White Clouds", inspired by Porter's book, is EXCELLENT. check out the trailer here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R6miAPuNYj8
enjoy!
Posted by: mama p | November 19, 2009 at 02:12 PM
Thanks, everyone, for your comments. Yes, the movie, "Among White Clouds" is, indeed, excellent - a must see for anyone interested in the Chinese tradition.
Posted by: Barry Briggs | November 22, 2009 at 07:57 AM