-Alan Watts
What is the meaning of Zen? What is the meaning of life? Philosophers, and Zen-seekers have argued this question since we have acquired the ability to communicate, yet we are now just as far from the answer as we were when we first began to argue the point.
The only truth of life is that we are dying the moment that we are born. In all honesty, Zen Buddhism and Taoism have little to say about the true meaning of life, but it has a lot to say about the function of life. Zen teaches us we must seek to attain enlightenment and save all beings from suffering if it can be helped, but only if it helps assist those that suffer.
Wisdom, and character are gained from suffering, it allows us to know our strengths and define our limits. So even suffering itself, has its worth and purpose. To embody this human function is to secure a mind that always asks, "How can I assist in making your life better?" This Zen-mind only concerns itself with the well-being of others, and since a majority of the human race has an issue with denying the self in favor of others, we have very few who have achieved the title Zen or Taoist Master.
All things arise due to causes and conditions, and these are constantly morphing and impermanent. We are born, we live, we die, and we live again, serving endlessly in the cosmic dance of ever-changing fate. The meaning of life can be found in us all, and the real question that you should be asking yourself is, "What is the meaning of your life?" It should be a question we inquire to inspire conversation, to get to know one another, to understand each others purpose. It can't be answered for you, not even by Buddha himself, but it can be experienced and understood.
Experience your life, and seek to understand it as it relates to you. Embrace it as you would your lover, and give to it with all the compassion that exist in this Universe. This world is what we make it, and your world can only be undone by another if you allow it.
