When Thich Nhat Hanh was still a young novice,one evening he was polishing the temple bell. The rain began — softly at first, then heavier. He listened as the drops fell on the roof, uneven yet harmonious in their rhythm. His hand moved in the same flow, his breath followed the sound. In that moment, everything merged —rain, sound, breath, movement. He no longer perceived any separation between himself and what was happening. There was only doing — and complete presence. Late

It was at the end of a training session,when a little time still remained — just enough for one last question. Master Weizhen looked around the room and spoke calmly: “Students, do you have any questions?But there is only time for one.” For a moment, there was silence. “No one has a question?” asked Weizhen. At last, Reifa raised a hand and said, “Master, I actually have many questions.” Weizhen nodded. “Then simply ask one of them.” Reifa fell silent, thinking…and thinking a

A student asked the Master: “Master, how can I know if my soul is at peace?” The Master lit a small lantern and placed it in the wind. The flame flickered, but he said nothing. After a while, the student spoke: “The flame trembles — perhaps my soul is the same.” The Master blew out the lantern.“And now?” he asked. The student was silent. The Master smiled: “When the path remains bright even without the light —then your soul is at rest.”