A final word on self-criticism: Do not beat up on yourself. Even if you think you know your flaws, there is no need to advertise them. Most people won't have noticed.

In zen, it is a cardinal sin to waste time. To waste time is to squander the here and now, which, if you think about it, is all that we have.

Zen teaches that our approach to today determines our whole approach to life.

Put in an honest day's work. It is the building block of a spiritual life.

Stop thinking about the audience and what they may be thinking of your music. Just play the music.

The only time and place to find enlightenment is in this moment. No need to check your watch. The time is now.

We take life for granted, sleepwalking until a shattering event knocks us awake. Zen says, don't wait until the car accident, the cancer diagnosis, or the death of a loved one to get your priorities straight. Do it now.