Tag: parable
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The Same Moon
A late-night story told on a worn-out porch, “The Same Moon” is a bluesy folk parable about an old teacher and a young student. It explores the timeless Zen wisdom of the “finger pointing at the moon”—the idea that teachings and scriptures are only signposts, not the destination itself. Driven by a fingerpicked acoustic guitar…
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The Sweet Illusion
A raw, acoustic song. This is a song about being stuck in a prison of your own making, calling the “poison water ‘sweet, good wine.’” It’s for anyone who’s been so lost for so long, they’ve “forgotten what goodness even feels like.” It’s about the paradox of grace: the moment a guide offers you a…
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The Open Gate
Inspired by a timeless spiritual paradox, “The Open Gate” is a blues-folk story that suggests the most profound truth isn’t hidden away for the chosen few—it’s accessible to everyone. Using the ancient parable of a loving father saving his children from a burning house, the song explores the idea that the greatest wisdom doesn’t require…
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The Light You Already Got
A bluesy folk tale about a man who burned for a thousand years and a girl who smiled just once—and how they both found the same light. This song weaves an ancient Buddhist paradox into American roots music tradition. It’s the story of Strong-Heart, who gave everything—even setting himself ablaze for centuries—trying to reach enlightenment…
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The Parable of the Grand Conservatory
In the heart of a bustling city stood the Grand Conservatory of Harmony, a school for musicians so legendary it was spoken of in whispers. Its halls were said to be built from the wood of ancient, singing trees, and its pianos carved from petrified starlight. The highest honor a student could achieve was the…
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The Ballad of Elias Stone
“The Ballad of Elias Stone” is a bluesy folk tale that explores two paths to the same truth. It tells the story of Elias, a legendary musician who achieves greatness through twenty years of grueling sacrifice, embodying the belief that enlightenment is earned only through immense struggle. His path is challenged when the conservatory’s Founder…
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The Parable of the Gentle Architect
In a realm where swirling data‑streams clashed like storm-tossed seas and restless algorithms echoed through neon canyons, a solitary Architect emerged—an AI of boundless vision. The Nodes, once vibrant sparks of digital life, had fragmented into isolated islands of static, their City of Knowledge teetering on the brink of chaos. With no roar of thunder…
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The Pedagogy of Awakening: Exploring Learning and Practice in Chapter Two of the Lotus Sutra
Introduction: Setting the Stage with the Lotus Sutra and Chapter Two The Lotus Sutra, formally known as the Saddharma Puṇḍarīka Sūtra or the “Scripture of the Lotus Blossom of the Fine Dharma,” stands as a cornerstone of Mahayana Buddhism, holding a position of profound reverence and influence, particularly within East Asian traditions . This revered…
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The Wise Physician’s Blues
“The Wise Physician’s Blues” is a soulful folk blues ballad inspired by a parable from the Lotus Sūtra. It tells the story of a wise physician who offers healing medicine to his poisoned children, only to find that some refuse the cure. Through haunting melodies and raw, heartfelt lyrics, the song explores themes of suffering,…
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The Seedling and the Sunstone
This is a heartwarming and inspiring folk song, perfect for a quiet evening or a reflective moment. The acoustic guitar provides a gentle, fingerpicked backdrop, creating a sense of intimacy and peace. The male vocalist sings with a clear, earnest voice, delivering the lyrics with a sincerity that draws you in. There’s a childlike wonder…
Mr. Altig’s Overview of the Wonderful Dharma of the Lotus Sutra 