In a quiet village, nestled among the mountains, there lived a Zen master known for his love of saki. One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, the master gathered his disciples around him, a cup of saki in hand.
He pointed to a flag fluttering in the breeze and asked, “What moves, the flag or the wind?”
The disciples pondered and debated. Some said the flag moved, others insisted it was the wind. The master listened, sipping his saki, a serene smile on his face.
Finally, he spoke, “Neither the flag nor the wind moves. It is your mind that moves.”
The disciples fell silent, contemplating his words. The master continued, “Just as this saki warms my body, your thoughts stir your mind. The world around you is but a reflection of your inner state. Still your mind, and you will find peace, regardless of the wind or the flag.”
With that, he took another sip of saki, and the disciples, enlightened by his words, bowed deeply, understanding that true tranquility comes from within.