Teachings
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Dharmatalk: Case 98, Book of Equanimity: Tozan’s “Intimate with It” (Part 1 of 2)
March 19, 20201 min read
"... the single, infinite, empty fact that is always, powerfully, right here, now ..." I am always most intimate with it. ~Tôzan Description: This talk begins by addressing the difference between concentration leading to emptiness practice, and mindfulness meditation. In Case 98, a monk asks Tôzan about the three bodies of Buddha. Tôzan’s beautiful, nonconceptual response expresses the single, infinite, empty fact that is always, powerfully, right here, now. Post & Featured image: Rapid mountain river in autumn....
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Dharmatalk: Case 97, Book of Equanimity: Emperor Doko’s Helmet Hood
March 12, 20201 min read
"Any sense experience is boundless and empty." Description: This inspiring talk explores the beautiful simplicity of Case 97. Emperor Dôkô says, “I have attained the treasure of the Central Plain.” His teacher, Master Kôke, asks the emperor to show it to him. What is this boundless treasure that cannot be quantified? It is always right here, right now. Post & Featured image: Yellow Sun Set in The Middle of The Ocean by osalenko, purchased from depositphotos, for use...
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Dharmatalk: Case 96, Book of Equanimity: Kyuho Does Not Acknowledge (Part 2 of 2)
March 5, 20201 min read
The fact of being is an utter mystery. Description: The focal point of this multifaceted talk is the seven-line verse by Master Sekisô in Case 96. Practice gives us a framework for seeking. What is to be found? In order to give us a taste of what Sekisô is conveying about the great mystery of existence and the varying depths of the awakening experience, each line of the verse is explored. Post & Featured image: Tree Tunnel...
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Henry Shukman and Sam Harris Interview / Waking Up Podcast
March 2, 20201 min read
Henry was recently interviewed by Sam Harris on the Waking Up podcast. Waking Up is available with a subscription. If you'd like to listen, we have a special offer that allows us to listen for free to Henry and Sam's conversation. Waking Up also offers a 30-day free trial if you'd like to explore more of the Sam Harris' offerings. To take advantage of the special offer... Visit https://www.wakingup.com Click on 'Sign Up' in the upper right hand corner Enter and...
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Dharmatalk: Case 96, Book of Equanimity: Kyuho Does Not Acknowledge (Part 1)
February 27, 20201 min read
Each thing is itself a miracle. Description: What is a koan? Why are they used in Zen training? In the story of each koan, we are the main character with an opportunity to become clearly aware of our core nature. In Case 96, following the death of Master Sekisô, Kyûhô questions the head monk to discover whether or not he should become the next abbot of the temple. Kyûhô is unimpressed, demonstrating that the heart of...
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Mindfulness: You are Not Alone, Jack Kornfield
February 23, 20201 min read
In a recent article titled You Are Not Alone, Jack Kornfield reminds us that we are intricately connected to all things through the air we breathe, the food we eat and the experiences we share. Many mystics, physicists, philosophers and even mathematicians have reached similar conclusions. We are infinitely more than our mind or our body. Kornfield says, “And now, as you read these words, feel yourself as part of the stream of humanity walking together,...
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Falling Snow
February 23, 20201 min read
All last night and This morning still, Snow falling in the deepest mountains; Ah, to see the autumn leaves Scattering in my home. ~ Dogen
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Dharmatalk:Already One: 2019 Spring Sesshin (Part 4 of 4)
February 20, 20201 min read
"…and the deepest level of communication is not communication, it’s communion." ~ Thomas Merton Description: This is the final talk of the Spring 2019 sesshin. It is a “key points” summary of the previous talks, beginning with a discussion of various zones of human healing and wisdom. Bodhidharma described two gates to the Zen path—entry by principle and entry by practice. This is the springboard to discuss many aspects of practice and the experience of awakening, which...
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