Skip to content

Yao Xiang Shakya

Keep IT Well

Now you have it, so keep it well. Jewel Mirror Samadhi

The quote above is a line from a Zen Buddhist Poem, titled, The Song of the Precious Jeweled Mirror Samadhi. It comes at the beginning of the poem right after the resounding affirmation by one of Buddha Shakyamuni’s disciples, Mahakashapa – the fellow who smiled a smile of recognition when Buddha Shakyamuni lifted a flower after giving a teaching. The poem is directed to those who have some understanding of what was/is intimately communicated.

Demons in the Garden, Weeds in the Mind

“Demon” is an old word, an ancient idea conjuring up images of devils and other fiercely intimidating embodiments of the forces of evil. Perhaps you, like I, instinctively recognize your own demonic nature. We all have within us the capacity to think speak and act in ways that are harmful. What we do with these demons, our demons, is a central project of the spiritual path.

The Knitting Lesson

Complete concentration is required in order to stay with the instructions…When I lose track, float off into thought, I often don’t discover the harm until the end

LESSONS. Lesson 5 B. The Second Rank to End Suffering

Fashi Lao Yue asks us to look at the Second Rank of Zen as another step in ending our misery. It begins with a quote and ends with a chant – it resounds the two teachings of Zen. Begin and continue – don’t give up. The Dharma Gates are gateless and ever-present – ready for everyone to enter.

LESSONS. Lesson 5. Part A. The End of Suffering

The first rank in zen is to see the relative in the absolute – we call it change. When things are going the way we want – we can see change as the relative in the absolute. But anytime all h*ll breaks loose in our life – when things don’t go our way – we go wild with suffering. BUT – Buddha tells us there is an end to suffering – You may ask – where is it? And how do I find it? Fashi Lao Yue suggests you take a look here.