One Bright Pearl

It has been an interesting journey this year. I have separated from my wife, had an emotional/psychological breakdown, lived and practiced at Sanshinji Zen Community, kicked methadone, traveled all over the country, laid off from my job, worked for the Obama Campaign, and lived homeless for the last six months. And despite being homeless, reduced [...]

Living like this, homeless, is a gift to consciousness. At every turn I am thrown back on myself. There is no one to blame, and each and every single thought is clearly a product of my own mind, and has nothing to do with any other person. I alone am responsible.
I have practiced zazen for [...]

While listening to Shohaku Okumura share his understanding of Bussho 1, he states:
“The power that creates our suffering or samsara, and the power that allows us to practice and create nirvana is the same power…”
It is all our responsibility.
This realization has become koan for me. It has put me on the spot. I can’t [...]

“… it is precisely by seeking the way of the unconditioned, being one with conditions where the ego doesn’t intervene, that is the true repayment of gratitude.”
Indeed. Dana manifested in the way of non-gaining mind. No position to defend.  East gate, West gate, North gate, South gate… No gate, wide open, available.
I have spent [...]

Life is beautiful. Through grace I have found that all is taken care of. Everything under the sun and moon and stars gives continuously. My cup is full though I fill it not.
How is this I wonder? Feet on the ground, rooted, this moments paradox plays me. Where I experience suffering, deep pools of spaciousnees [...]