Concentration: One of Three Powers in Karma Yoga by Fashi Lao Yue
When we know that all bondage is in the mind and all freedom is in the mind we aare able to harness our mind in such a way that we can use our power of concentration. Fashi Lao Yue
Category: Essays
Theophagy: The Communion Ritual by Ming Zen Shakya
Because they regard themselves as intellectuals who cannot countenance things unscientific, atheists mock rituals they do not understand. In Theophagy: The Communion Ritual, our dear late teacher, Ming Zhen Shakya examines this religious practice.
Ask a Master: What is a Zen Retreat?
Ask a Master: What is a Zen Retreat? If you are thinking about attending a Zen retreat, Fashi Yao XIn Shakya offers some advice on how to approach the retreat. It’s all about vow.
Work: Karma Yoga by Ming Zhen Shakya Remixed
This is a MUST read for any devoted spiritual seeker. It touches on the action and actions of Zen that is practical and potent. Hope you take the time to read it.
Ask a Master? What is Chan Liturgy — The Simple Way is Our Way
If you are struggling with daily practice, this essay will help you sort out the basics with some helpful, simple tips on Chan liturgy.
Detachment and McCormack’s “Selling Heaven” by Ming Zhen Shakya
“Detachment and Selling Heaven” is a memorable essay by Ming Zhen Shakya….it resounds on many levels like the sound of a gong being struck. Her exquisite understanding of the Irish tenor who is seemlingly forever drowning himself in sentiment, leaving many to go the grave soaking wet and her brilliant understanding of the attachment involved and the well-placed observance of the poems, especially McCormack’s, The Portrait.
Well worth the read!
The Ox by Fashi Lao Yue
Many spiritual seekers do not know what the aim of practice is. In this essay, Fashi Lao Yue gives us some direction on the ultimate aim of Zen practice. It’s simple but it ain’t easy. See for yourself.
Martha, Martha What is Charity? by Ming Zhen Shakya
Do you wonder what Buddhist charity is? Or charity itself? Ming Zhen uses an old, familiar Christian story to help us understand.
To What….Do You Ascribe Things? by Fashi Lao Yue
Who gets the credit? How about the blame? Fashi Lao Yue looks at our common tendency to take the credit and give the blame….and gives some suggestions about practice.
Ask a Master: What is the Most Important Daily Practice for a Zen Monk?
There is so much to do every day….how do you sort out what is important for your spiritual practice. If you have ever wondered what is important in Zen practice Fashi Yao Xin Shakya gives a bright answer to those who want to know.
The Heart, the Intellect & the Ass by Fashi Lao Yue
“Faith is rarely where your head is at. Nor is it where your heart is at. Faith is where your ass is at! Daniel Berrigan
How many times have you wanted to give up, walk away, quit? Fashi Lao Yue tells us faith is in the ass, not in the head or the heart.
Be Resolute from the Beginning
While it is wonderful to hear, “I love you,” there’s nothing quite like having someone tell you, “You changed my life.” J.J. Virgin
This essay of our dear Ming Zhen Shakya was the first essay I read by her….and believe me when I tell you, IT changed my life. Lao Yue Shakya