Ears Quote by Shunryu Suzuki
“Let your ears hear without trying to hear. Let the mind think without trying to think and without trying to stop it. That is practice.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind by Shunryu Suzuki, 1970
True mindfulness arises when we let sensory input and thoughts flow without effort, embodying the essence of practice.
In simple terms: Let go of trying to hear or think.
Key Takeaway
Practice letting go.
Themes
mindfulness
meditation
non‑attachment
Mood
calm
reflective
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- daily meditation
- stressful work
- walking
- listening to music
Key Concepts
Zen
presence
effortless awareness
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you notice when you are forcing attention?
- What does “letting go” feel like in daily life?
A Different Perspective
Even without effort, the mind may still be distracted by strong emotions.
![“Well the first time I performed, my mom was like how she is now when sees me on stage – all red, smiling from ear to ear. So I don’t want to mess up, [be]cause she’s smiling. Seeing my mom happy is kind of like an overwhelming feeling.” quote by Chris Brown](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/477/chris-brown-1887_causes_well-the-first-time-i-performed-my-mom-w_4699.jpg)
