In asking two questions, you have asked one. The Master is reminded of an ancient parable.
Nansen And The Maple Tree
Once, as Nansen was walking through the forest, he saw a beautiful young maple tree. Excited, he ran to the wise Pen-Chi, who sat meditating in his garden nearby.
"Master, I have seen perfection! What must I do now?" he asked.
The Master stared at the sands of the garden and replied, "Cut it down with your sword."
"But Master, surely it must be preserved so others may see its beauty?"
"There is no tree. Cut it down, and hear its silence."
"Is that beauty, Master?" To that, the Master did not reply.
Nansen returned to the tree and cleaved its trunk in two. He pointed his ear at the falling tree and heard the crashing noise of its branches. He walked thoughtfully back to Pen-Chi.
"Thank you, Master. I now understand emptiness." he said.
The Master turned to Nansen. "Cut out your eyes."
Nansen held the sword to his eyes, but did not stab himself. "I cannot, Master. Surely there is another option?"
The Master took Nansen's sword, and gouged out Nansen's eyes. "Now you may see nothing."
