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Have you eaten? |
Step 9: Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.
Koan: A monk made a request of Joshu: “I have just entered the monastery. Please teach me.”
Joshu asked, “Have you eaten?”
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Then wash your bowls. |
“Then,” said Joshu, “wash your bowls.” At that moment, the monk had an insight.
(Case #7, Gateless Barrier)
Joshu asked, “Have you eaten?” He’s already begun to teach the monk how to be a good host.
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After cooking and eating a meal, the most natural thing to do is to clean things up. “Then wash your bowls,” said Joshu. This is exactly the same dynamic Steps 8 and Step 9. Instead of bowls, I’m cleaning up after myself; I’m attempting to clean up my past deeds. This is the next best action.
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This is being a good host, too; treating myself well, and doing the things I need to stay sober. In time, I'm rewarded with a cupboard full of clean, usable dishes; ready for serving others.
Bill K.