David Given Schwarm

Married, Father, United

Tag: Prayer

  • VII The Chariot


    The Chariot represents the principle that the human Will functions only when the whole being is behind it. This card is about the struggles we have with ourselves and with life. It promises that with diligence, honesty and perseverence we can overcome the most insurmountable of obstacles.

    This is a hopeful and encouraging card, reminding us that we can climb to the heights if we want to. Here we are taught how to master the opposing forces within us, in order to bring them and thus ourselves into harmony. We are cosmic warriors, unfurling, learning and growing – divine and vital parts of the Universe.

  • CASE 24: Seppô’s "Look at the Snake"



    Seppô, instructing the assembly, said, “There’s a poisonous snake on the southern side of the mountain. All of you should look at it carefully!”

    Chôkei said, “Today in the Zen hall there are many people. They have lost their body and life.”

    A monk told this to Gensha, who said, “Only Elder Brother Ryô [Chôkei] could say something like that. However, I wouldn’t talk like that.”

    The monk asked, “What then would you say, Master”?

    Gensha replied, “Why does it have to be ‘the southern side of the mountain’?”

    Unmon threw his staff in front of Seppô and acted frightened.

  • The Power of Being Present

    Observe how the mind
    labels an unpleasant moment
    and how this labeling process,
    this continuous sitting
    in judgment, creates pain
    and unhappiness.

  • CASE 23: Roso Faces the Wall




    Whenever Roso saw a monk coming, he immediately sat facing the wall. Hearing of this, Nansen said, “I usually tell my people to realize what has existed before the kalpa of emptiness, or to understand what has been before Buddhas appeared in the world. Still, I haven’t acknowledged one disciple or even a half. If he continues that way, he will go on even until the year of the donkey.”

  • CASE 22: Gantô’s Bow to the Kaatz



    Gantô came to Tokusan. He straddled the threshold of the gate and asked “Is this ordinary or is this holy?”

    Tokusan shouted, “Kaatz!”

    Gantô made a deep bow.

    Hearing of this, Tôzan said, “Hardly anyone but Gantô could have accepted it that way.”

    Gantô said, “Old Tôzan can’t tell between good and bad. At that time, I raised up with one hand and suppressed with the other.”

  • Panda Express, Irvine

    A letter full of cheer is coming from a loved one.

  • Power of Being Present

    Presence removes time.
    Without time, no suffering,
    no negativity, can survive

  • The Power of Now: 50 Inspiration Cards

    “Eckhart Tolle has emerged as one of the world’s most inspiring writers and spiritual teachers, whose insights go beyond any particular religion, doctrine, or guru. His New York Times #1 besseller The Power of Now has transformed thousands of people, and the words on these cards were chosen by Eckhart to convey the power of the book in a few short sentences.
    Experience more joy and less stress in your life, more light and less trauma.
    This little package offers great tools to tranform your life into one of grace, ease, and lightness. Each card provides guidance, and the dual-function box props up to display a favorite meditation for focused contemplation.

  • Pay Attention

    1. Pay attention
    2. Listen
    3. Do your best
    4. Forgive yourself
    5. Make sure

  • CASE 21: Ungan Sweeps the Ground



    When Ungan was sweeping the ground, Dôgo said, “You are having a hard time!” Ungan said, “You should know there is one who doesn’t have a hard time.” Dôgo said, “If that’s true, you mean there is a second moon?” Ungan held up his broom and said, “What number of moon is this?” Dôgo was silent.

    Gensha said, “That is precisely the second moon.”

    Unmon said, “The servant greets the maid politely.”