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In Zen practice, every moment counts, every detail of our life calls for  attention. A famous Zen saying says, "Messy shoes, messy mind." This guides us not to throw things around, helter skelter, but to be aware of how things have served us, and where they belong.  Therefore the instruction, pick your coat up from the floor and put it where it belongs. Such a simple action with far ranging effects. Don't throw something away after you've used it. Place it where it needs to be, for its sake and for yours. When our lives are filled with careful order and attention,  harmony enters our world. This instruction not only applies not only to our coats and shoes, but to those we meet in our lives as well. If someone needs to be lifted up, do not hesitate to do so. Do not throw others or relationships around. Don't use them when needed and then throw to the floor. One simple careful Zen instruction like this, followed thoroughly impacts our entire lives. The simpler the instruction the better, the further it reaches all.

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