For Me, This Glass is Already Broken

Posted on June 25, 2012 by Morton Design Works

I’ve been re-reading Phil Jackson’s book “Sacred Hoops” and came across this passage that I wanted to share. In it, Phil is talking about an encounter by a group of Americans with a Buddhist monk named Achaan Chaa…

“You see this goblet?” Chaa asked, holding up a glass. “For me, this glass is already broken. I enjoy it; I drink out of it. It holds my water admirably, sometimes even reflecting the sun in beautiful patterns. If I should tap it, it has a lovely ring to it.

But when I put this glass on a shelf and the wind knocks it over or my elbow brushes it off the table and it falls to the ground and it shatters, I say ‘Of course.’

When I understand that this glass is already broken, every moment with it is precious.”

Published by Morton Design Works

Artist, author, poet Adventurer and dreamer Husband and father View all posts by Morton Design Works

8 thoughts on “For Me, This Glass is Already Broken”

Regina (Gina) Arnold June 25, 20121:26 am Reply

Very profound.
1. Morton Design Works June 25, 20124:35 pm Reply
  
  I know, right? I was reading yesterday and came across that and just HAD to share.
follow the twisted root June 25, 20123:33 am Reply

Of course!
Thank you for sharing!
1. Morton Design Works June 25, 20124:34 pm Reply
  
  My pleasure! I’m glad you enjoyed it…
My Bungalow Days June 25, 20124:02 pm Reply

Really a great perspective. But that doesn’t mean I want you to start knocking our glasses off the tables, ok? That’s still my job 🙂
1. Morton Design Works June 25, 20124:34 pm Reply
  
  Ha ha ha…
Mel June 25, 20127:55 pm Reply

I never thought in that way but…so true. Thanks for sharing. I like it…
1. Morton Design Works June 25, 201211:36 pm Reply
  
  I hadn’t thought that way before I read it either Mel. Actually, I had read it years ago, forgot it, then re-read and re-remembered it…ha ha ha!! You’re welcome for sharing!