Originally Posted by
Jundo
However, I am generally one to suggest that each person take traditions and express them in ways which speak to one's heart.
This is some advice that I really heed a lot during practice, and it inspires me. I find, personally, when I jump on the bandwagon of something (whatever it is) in the early stages of my discovering that thing, I will use that object to satisfy my ego's desire to be distracted. I have a big problem with boredom in my life, probably because I have an addictive personality.
My first few months of zazen were like this. My practice is a lot different now. I'm no longer so enamored by my zafu/zabuton or my buddha statue, etc. The bs has settled and now practice begins. That's not to say that I don't appreciate those elements to zen. I really do love it, I love the art, the writing, a lot of stuff about it, but I'm no longer as caught up in it, and I don't romanticize it as much.
In this vein, my liturgy practice has changed too. Instead of being so strict (and never really living up to some arbitrary rules I put down; i do that a lot too), I now chant the four vows and verse of atonement pretty regularly after each sitting; that's what we do here during zazenkai, so as a sangha member I really like to do with the sangha's doing. similarly I think sewing is a part of liturgy as well. Boy, I'd never thought I'd say that
But I really think the liturgy I do, while personal, should also reflect what my teacher's are sharing with us in their practices.
Gassho Jundo and Taigu
In any case (and enough kissing butt. hahahah), Taigu mentioned (and I'll probably misquote it) take it easy in our practice. There may be a saying and I don't know who said this but the candle that burns brightest has the shortest life. What I mean is that how I practice now is to make it part of my daily life... nothing special. If I make it special it's separate from me, and I don't think that's what this is. If I stay consistent and don't overdo it, then I'll maintain my practice. If I push too hard, I'll burn out and this will just be another phase of my life; something I tried.
But that is not the Way at least from what I've learned. We share in a practice that's come down from generations, and so to honor it I stay consistent.
Ok I'm done rambling. lol
Gassho,
Cyril