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The student monks of Longhu Temple were struggling to replicate the painting of a fight between a dragon and a tiger. After many attempts, their version still lacked energy. So when Chan Master Wude was returning, they asked him for advice.
Master Wude examined their work and remarked, “The dragon and tiger are well drawn. But a dragon can charge faster when it draws its head back further, and a tiger can leap higher when it drops its head lower.”
The monks were delighted, and replied, “Teacher, your words get to the heart of the matter! We must change the positions of the heads.”
Wude added, “This lesson applies as well to conduct, handling affairs, Chan practice, and cultivating the Way. Only by stepping back can you charge harder. Only after humble self-reflection can you rise higher.”
Seeing that this went over their heads, Master Wude solemnly recited a Chan poem, “Planting the seedlings from my hand, I gaze in the water and see the sky.