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Arriving Home with Every Step

Thich Nhat Hanh · November 12, 2002 · Nam Hoa Temple, China · Audio Only
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Walking meditation is the practice of enjoying every step with mindfulness and concentration, bringing joy, peace, and solidity. By coordinating the breath with steps, one silently recites “I have arrived” on the in-breath and “I am home” on the out-breath, establishing oneself in the present moment where all the wonders of life are found. This practice counters the habit energy of running toward the future. The Pure Land is available in the here and now, not after death; it is a place of mindfulness, concentration, and compassion. Suffering is present in the Pure Land because without suffering, there is no chance to cultivate understanding and compassion. The First Noble Truth of suffering is absolutely necessary to understand the Fourth Noble Truth, the path leading to the cessation of suffering.

Understanding corresponds to Right View in the Eight Noble Path, which is essential for Right Thinking, Right Speech, and Right Action. A human life resembles a burning candle; every moment offers thought, speech, and action to the world. Mindfulness allows the observation of these offerings to ensure they contribute to happiness rather than suffering. Concentration on an object—whether a flower, breath, or step—leads to a breakthrough into the nature of reality. This direct experience of impermanence and non-self is distinct from mere intellectual notions. The teaching is a match used to strike the flame of insight; once the flame is born, it consumes the match.

Nirvana is the removal of all notions, including being and non-being, birth and death, coming and going. When notions are removed, the afflictions based on them cannot manifest. The Three Dharma Seals are:

  1. Impermanence
  2. Non-self
  3. Nirvana

Addressing the Diamond Sutra, the wisdom of signlessness is illustrated by a cloud transforming into rain; the cloud does not die but changes form, and one must not be caught in appearances. True success is defined not by wealth, fame, or power, but by the success of transforming anger, despair, and jealousy. When distractions or afflictions arise during practice, they should be embraced with the tenderness of a mother caring for a crying baby, supported by the collective energy of the Sangha.

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