20th January

Student: "How can I find my Buddha-nature?"
Master: "You have no Buddha-nature."
Student: "What about animals?"
Master: "They do have Buddha-nature."
Student: "Then why do I not have Buddha-nature?"
Master: "Because you have to ask."

The Master correctly points out to the student that animals are always in Buddha nature. This is why Jesus said that the birds and animals never think of where the next meal is coming from. They know that when they get hungry food will appear. They are in tune with the flow of the Universe, of creation. Humans have opinions and judgements and fear which blocks the natural flow. The student felt that he was lacking Buddha nature, he did not have it, whereas the opposite is true. His doubt is the seperation.