Difficulty in Practicing as it’s told

There is a famous story about the Zen Master Choka, who is asked by the
poet Po Chu-i, “What is the essence of the teachings of the Buddha?” To this he
answered, “To do no evil, to do only good, and to purify one's mind. This is the
teaching of buddhas.”
Po Chu-i laughed and said “Even a three year old child can understand
that.” The Zen Master then replied, “Even a three year old child can understand
this, but it is difficult for even an eighty year old man to practice.” To practice
an obvious matter without questioning is the essence of Buddhism. This is how
we can create happiness in our lives.

From “Kaisozuikan”(Kosei Publishing Co.)

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