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Roving Over The World
- Book 111: Roving Over The World
- Chapter 11: Wine And Supper
- Written by Sheng-yen Lu
- Translated by Janny Chow
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Frankly speaking, I am a cultivator that never refuses wine. Many disciples know my habit, when I travelled they will prepare good wine and delicious supper for me. After that I was able to have a good night sleep.
The way I savour the wine is very different from the other people. I sipped slowly and tasted the wine. Once I am a bit tipsy, I will exercise my self-control, that is why I have never been drunk in thirty years. This is true. I am asked whether a cultivator must refrain from taking intoxicant? My answer is yes. But I am an exception. As I am able control myself and not let the wine control me, I dare to drink.
In Japan, I drank \`Qing\` wine.
In Hong Kong, I drank old wine and rich wine.
As I am very open-minded, I do everything openly; and I even write it on my books. I know there are many ordained monks who drink wine, eat roast duck ; but they do it quietly.
As an honest monk, I am sincere in my speech and action. Even after my wine and supper, I behave decently.
This was the habit I acquired when I was young, carry out surveying job in the army. Working wholeday and having nothing to do at night, I joined my colleages for supper and started wine-drinking.
In Hong Kong, I stayed at the top floor of the hotel, overlooking Chimsatsui harbour in colourful neon lights which flickered under my feet. After taking my bath, I changed into my lama skirt, and took off my clothes. I felt good, the air was warm in the dark; and the big sitting room dim and elegant.
The wine has its attraction, the supper prepared by my disciples is very tempting.
I like to share my wine and supper with my close disciples. But I always warned them if they are unable to exercise self-control then they must refrain from wine-drinking.
Life is pleasant and our friendships are warm.
The teacher and disciples can get together and have a small talk. After a round of wine, my discourse is even more entertaining. Amids their laughters, codial harmony fills the air.
Sometime all the disciples came along, and the sitting room were full.
The sermons given after my drinks are even more direct and devoid of window dressing. It is not difficult to understand such a strange gathering.
Strange enough, I like to sit down on the floor and give sermons. When I am surrounded by my disciples, my thoughts usually flow like running water. I am able to express my true self with enlightened speeches.
The sermon I give is different from that I give when I sit on the roster performing ritual.
I feel free, and unrestrained. I am very happy that I am able to talk what I like with warmth and excitement.
The questions asked by my disciples are very lively. The atmosphere is usually ordial. We chatted like old friends. We were very satisfied, full and tipsy.
Although I am an accomplished cultivator, after wine and supper, I feel like living in the modern world. When the party is over, the light in the living room is even more gentle and tranquil. After my quick wash up and brush up, I am able to sleep easily (all is quiet).
I realise drinking wine is a pleasure of my life, and I like to have tidbits.
The sermons so given are considered \` precious treasure\`.
\`Wine and supper\` are definitely not vulgar. It is not sensual enjoyment; nor is it apathetic. These are my happy hours.
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