Dharma Talks

How do we best support friends and family members in deep distress? Practice teaches us a love that is not based upon patching up the fragile ego. Practice teaches us to have faith in another’s Buddha nature, to embrace the moment without having to fix anything.

Seido reflects on the meaning of the beloved community. As we gather, over and over, anchored in our common intent to practice, the one and the many are in constant dialogue.

The fourth Grave Precept, “Do not speak dishonestly—communicate truthfully,” is endlessly subtle. Often, we get drawn into small untruths and social niceties as a way of fitting into a group. Conversely, we sometimes insist on aggressively “speaking my truth” regardless of its effect on others. Can we be truthful, even with ourselves? Can we cultivate deep listening and loving speech in service of our interconnectedness?

Zazen and wisdom are in dynamic relationship. The attention we give to something, the attitude with which we approach it, changes what we see, and thus how we act. In zazen, sit wide awake and curious, noticing habits of body, speech and mind. Enter the precepts, these endlessly mysterious koans that promise an energized way to meet an often painful, confused and overwhelming world. This way is open-hearted and creative, spontaneous and responsive.

Even if you are devoted to zazen, it is good to take a break from sitting. Every so often, forget you practice Zen. Just go about your life and see what happens. It is a great learning opportunity. We notice what happens in our life naturally, how we’ve been changed by the practice, and what we experience when we don’t sit. Putting down the forms also allows us to see our big ideas about Zen, and put those down, too.