"Since each of us is the Buddha, those working in the kitchen are supporting the very life of the Buddha. That is one way to see kitchen practice. But also, as with sutras and chanting, kitchen work is an absolute practice in and of itself. The kitchen is a continuous testing-ground. From moment to moment there is so much to be done; conditions are always changing. And everything can be done in so many ways! How do we slice the vegetables? How do we scrub the utensils? At every turn we express our inner state: by being sloppy, by being meticulous, by avoiding work or seeking it, concentrating or daydreaming, being calm or tense, and so on. It is not an easy matter to remain mindful and unconditioned under the pressure of a busy kitchen. This is a challenging practice, but it is also potentially a very rewarding one."