Yao Xiang Shakya
Determination and the Sense Doors
The meaning is not in the words, yet it responds to the inquiring impulse. Song of the Precious Jewel Mirror Samadhi What… Read More »Determination and the Sense Doors
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.
Ulterior Defenses by Ming Zhen Shakya
Janus, the Roman God FOREWARD by Fashi Lao Yue When I would grumble about something to Ming Zhen, she would inevitably get to… Read More »Ulterior Defenses by Ming Zhen Shakya
When You Are Down, WHAT Do You Do?
When You Fall Down, Get Up! We all fall down. It is the human condition. We make mistakes. We get hurt. We hurt others.… Read More »When You Are Down, WHAT Do You Do?
The Vows of a 21st Century Monk
__________ Beings are numberless, I vow to save them by living as a monk. Obstructions are numberless, I vow to end them by living as… Read More »The Vows of a 21st Century Monk
ON FA SHI’S “I’VE COME TO SEE THE PIGEONS RIDE”by Ming Zhen Shakya
I had never heard the entire poem. I had heard only the opening line which Fa Shi (Gisho Senderovich) had recited in the course of… Read More »ON FA SHI’S “I’VE COME TO SEE THE PIGEONS RIDE”by Ming Zhen Shakya
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.
