Someone said to Master Shungaku, “The Lotus sect is too obstinate, and it is not a good thing.” Whereupon he replied, “It is just because of its obstinacy that it is the Lotus sect. If it were not so, wouldn’t it be just the same as the other sects?” Well said.

There is a saying that “Where the water is absolutely clear there are no fish”. Just because there are algae and other plants in the water, the fish can hide behind them and grow. When a person overlooks certain things that he sees and hears, his subordinates below him can feel secure. In one’s conduct and daily life as well one should have this sort of attitude.

To let go isn’t to forget, not to think about, or ignore. It doesn’t leave feelings of anger, jealousy or regret. Letting go isn’t winning, and it isn’t losing. It’s not about pride, and it’s not about how you appear, it’s not about obsessing or dwelling on the past. Letting go isn’t blocking memories or thinking sad thoughts, it doesn’t leave emptiness, hurt or sadness. It’s not giving up or giving in. Letting go isn’t about loss, and it isn’t defeat. To let go of something is to cherish the memories, to overcome and move on. It’s having an open mind and confidence in the future. Letting go is accepting, it’s learning, it’s experiencing.
To let go is to be thankful for the experiences that once made you cry, laugh, love and grow. It’s about all that you had and all you still have. Letting go is having the courage to accept change and the strength to keep moving. It’s growing up, realising that a heart can sometimes change and it can also be the most potent remedy. To let go is to open a door, clear a path and set yourself free…..

But even a clumsy and useless fellow who cannot do anything well, if he but has the resolution to cherish his lord single-mindedly, is a retainer who can be totally relied on.
One who makes himself useful only through his wisdom and skills is of an inferior grade.

Snake: Oct 23 – Nov 22

Most shamans are born under this Native American animal symbol.
The Snake is a natural in all matters of spirit. Easily attuned to the ethereal realm the Snake makes an excellent spiritual leader.

Also respected for his/her healing capacities, the Snake also excels in medical professions.

The Snake’s preoccupation with matters intangible often lead others to view them as mysterious, and sometimes frightening.

True, the Snake can be secretive, and a bit dark – he/she is also quite sensitive, and caring.

In a supportive relationship the cool Snake can be passionate, inspiring, humorous, and helpful.

Left to his/her own devices, the Snake can be despondent, violent, and prone to abnormal mood swings.