Zen Story: There Is No Secret

Goshu came to Zen master Yui-e and said, “I have been studying Zen for many years, but have not yet succeeded. Please give me some guidance.” Yui-e said, “There is no secret trick to Zen study. It’s just a matter of freedom from birth and death.” Goshu asked, “How does one pass through birth and death to freedom?” Raising his voice, Yui-e said, “Your every passing thought is birth and death!” At these words Goshu went into ecstacy, feeling as if he had put down a heavy burden.