When We See the Footprints, We Can Trust the Path and Move Forward
In the Ten Ox-Herding Pictures, the stage of seeing the footprints is very important. We have not yet seen the ox directly, but seeing the footprints means we know the ox is certainly there and can see the direction it has gone. In practice, discovering small traces and confidence in the original mind becomes a major turning point.
At first, we may wander because we do not know where to go. Yet as we listen to Dharma talks, study, and examine the mind, at some moment traces of the path appear. From then on, we are no longer searching vaguely; we move forward knowing the direction.
Still, seeing the footprints does not mean the study is finished. The footprints show the way, but we must actually enter more deeply along that path before we can see the ox. Therefore a practitioner should not remain with a small experience or understanding, but keep observing and practicing steadily.
As we live, our minds often shake. But if we have seen even once the traces of the right path, we should treasure that confidence. It leads us to study again, examine the mind again, and not lose the path of practice.
Today, do not take lightly the small footprints you have seen. May this be a day of following that path and making one more step of steady effort.
Finding small traces on the path of practice is very important. When we see footprints, we can trust that the ox is there and know the direction to move. Treasure the small traces of the right path and continue practicing steadily.
