Autumn Maple (Detail), Kamisaka Sekka, 1866-1942

"Take a look at this egocentric mind restlessly seeking fame and profit. Is it possible to realize the nature and form of the three-thousand realms in the space of a single thought? Does egocentric mind manifest the dharma-gate of the mind that does not bear thought? There is only the delusory mind which is thirsty for fame and clings to profit. There is nothing that can be regarded as bodhi-mind.

"In the past, there have been sages who contemplated the Way, attained the dharma, and taught others using secular means; yet none of them were pulled by evil desires for fame and profit. They had no attachment to the dharma, much less to worldly values.

"As I said before, the mind which sees impermanence is one aspect of bodhi-mind. It is totally different from that referred to by the madmen. Arousing the mind that does not bear thought or the mind that realizes the three-thousand realms are the excellent practices after having aroused bodhi-mind. Do not mix them up carelessly. Just let go of your egocentric mind and practice calmly. This is the most realistic form of bodhi-mind" (Eihei Dogen Zenji, from Gakudo-Yojinshu, "Points to Watch in Practicing the Way," 1234).

When egocentric views do arise, sit quietly, illuminate them, and consider Dogen's advise from Shobogenzo Zuimonki (Book 4, Chapter 3):

"I implore you to sit quietly and seek the beginning and the end of this body on the ground of reality. Your body, hair, and skin, were originally comprised of the two droplets from your father and mother. Once the breath stops, they scatter and finally turn into mud and soil on the mountains and fields. How can you cling to your body?"