exactly21 on Nostr: A university professor traveled to visit the Zen master Nan-in to learn about wisdom. ...

A university professor traveled to visit the Zen master Nan-in to learn about wisdom.

The professor spoke endlessly about philosophy, religion, and everything he had studied. He explained his own theories and opinions, barely pausing for breath.

Quietly, Nan-in began pouring tea into the professor's cup.

The cup filled to the top.

But Nan-in kept pouring.

Tea spilled over the rim, onto the table, and finally onto the floor.

"Stop!" the professor cried. "The cup is already full."

Nan-in set down the teapot and smiled.

"Like this cup, your mind is full of your own ideas and assumptions. How can I show you wisdom unless you first empty your cup?"

The professor fell silent.

For the first time that day, he truly listened.