Questions to Master Deshimaru

Question

Is freedom something real or is it an illusion?

Answer

True freedom is inside the mind. Some people appear to be free but in their minds they are not free at all. I feel free in myself, even though I have to obey the precepts. I don't have so many desires, I live simply. Even when my projects fail, even if my whole mission were a failure, I should still have my kolomo and my shaven head and my kesa and I could sleep by the side of the road - a true Zen monk. People who are ambitious and full of desires are always searching for freedom but they can't find it. They are always worried and sad, their desires keep growing and growing, and in the end they fall ill or become neurotic. Freedom does not mean doing whatever you like. Too much gratification of desires does not lead to freedom because human desires are limitless. The best thing is to have fewer desires. Freedom is different at each age of life and for each karma. Young people should not become narrow-minded by trying to limit their desires. The middle way, balance, is important. As much as possible, you should sublimate your desires; then freedom comes through a spiritual ideal.