Hey Jundo,
I don't usually have too much to say, but I figured I'd put my two cents in.
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Originally Posted by Jundo
- I have the capability on the blog to do "group sittings" from time to time, where up to 6 people could simultaneously put a camera on the computer and video themselves sitting Zazen. It would be just like I do it, but with the camera switching back and forth among the six people. It would serve no other purpose than just another way we can all join in. Would it be worth doing from time to time, e.g., once every couple of weeks? Any volunteers?
I'd suggest a roundtable talk every once in a while rather than a group sitting. Might spark some lively discussions over here in the forums.
Sorry no volunteering from me...I have no camera.
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- I could also do a "1 on 1" guest-sitter thing, where one of our members at a time will sit with me. The person can lead the talk or just introduce themselves, then sit with me. Any volunteers for that??
Well that might be interesting and probably a little easier to follow rather than a six way.
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- Do you think the daily sittings on the blog are in a good format?
Yep.
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Too much about me?
nope
Just enough. I usually catch it at work and can't actually sit with you. So I just listen and then sit some later. :)
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Not enough sitting?
*shrug*
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Am I being "too cute" with the joking around every day? Should it be in a format that is more just a "Hello, and let's get right down to sitting for the full time"?
Perhaps a better quality of joke. ;) Just do what you do man.
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Are the talks a help in their present format?
yep
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Do you think I should request everyone on the forum to post as their avatar an actual photo of themselves (as opposed to Harry's hilarious beer guzzling, guitar playing cats ... but I assume that he does not look like that)? Or maybe we should set up a separate section where people can post photos? What we look like on the outside is not important at all ... or is it?
Seems to be some pretty strong opinions on this one. I don't have anything to hide.
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Starting in a few months, I am planning to have on-line training in anticipation for Jukai. This would involve study of each of the Precepts over multiple weeks (much as we do the book club chapters, we would discuss each of the precepts one by one) plus sewing a Rakusu. I guess that it will lead to an on-line Jukai ceremony (the first in the world, as far as I know). What do you think? I am also thinking of having one person who is studying for Jukai to be in charge of a particular Precept each week, and that person would have to deliver a video talk (by posting a video like I do on the blog) or, if no camera, to at least writing an essay, in which they discuss the Precept. Something like that.
*shrug* I don't really have much of an opinion one way or the other here. Sounds interesting, but not sure if I'd participate.
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I have not been too insistent on people doing "Samu" (work practice). In our case, that would involve community volunteer work (preferably, hands on actually helping people in need like the sick or elderly) or, for those already loaded with work and family obligations, an intentional commitment to non-do some of those activities as "Samu" practice. We could have a group in which people discuss Samu and support each other. (By the way, I do not accept any "Dana" financial contributions for Treeleaf, as we have sufficient resources for what we are doing. However, I do encourage people to make financial donations to charities that help folks, e.g., feeding the poor, finding a cure for a disease. Both donations and Samu work should be a bit beyond the point where it starts to hurt).
To be frank I think too much focus on this might turn into a game of one-upsmanship to impress the teacher. Personally I don't see any difference in hammering a nail for Habitat for Humanity, helping an old lady cross the street, or lending an ear to a good friend. There is no such thing as not helping enough...unless of course you do nothing. :)
But I may be misunderstanding you.
Not that I can think of.
Peace,
Rodney