(Spoken by Master Sheng-yen during retreat, July 20, 1980.) Many of the names of the Ch'an patriarchs reflect the wintery environment of the places where they practiced. Very rarely do we find them associated with the summer. Winter, symbolized by falling snow, represents the spirit of Ch'an, whereas the spirit of summer is quite different. In hot weather it is very easy to feel sleepy and dull-minded, while cold weather, especially in the mountains, is very good for meditation. more