Stories of Compassion and Kindness - GOJO BODHISATTVA

[Sekishi]

INTRODUCTION from JUNDO:

Dear All Leafers,

This is the HOME of GOJO BODHISATTVA, our system for the anonymous publishing of stories of good deeds done, by oneself or heard about others, and all manner of inspiring stories. "Gojo" in Japanese means something like "Helping Together" (合助). It is a vital part of our 'Lend-A-Hand' (LAH) Project.

We ask folks to submit ANONYMOUSLY their stories of “Good Deeds” from time to time to our “GOJO BODHISATTVA” anonymous publication system by sending an email to: gojo@treeleaf.org

By telling these stories ANONYMOUSLY, the good deed doer takes little credit, yet your posting will serve to motivate and inspire countless others. (You can write an email with your deed to our ombudsman for GOJO who will remove your name and identifying information before posting. Everyone can then read the story, but nobody except the confidential ombudsman will know who did so). In fact, in traditional Buddhist belief it is the GIVER who is indebted to the RECIPIENT for an opportunity of merit, as much as the other way around. We try not to be too proud or take too much credit, but it is okay to feel good about it too. Giver, Gift and Receiver are truly one.

You can also make posts in this thread under your own name if you wish.

We look forward to hearing your stories.

Gassho, Jundo
SatToday LAH

------------------------------------------------

A Message from Sekishi:

Hello everyone,

I would like to introduce the "Stories of Compassion and Kindness" thread - a place to share little stories of compassion give energy and support to others so that they in turn can offer compassion to the world.

Did you get through a day without watering the seeds of anger?
Were you witness to someone helping a stranger across the street?
Did you volunteer for a food bank or local hospice center?
Are your financial donations helping a local shelter?
Did you read a story about someone helping fellow beings?

Please share your stories in this thread!

If you feel uncomfortable sharing a story with your name attached, or you are on a mobile device and want to send a quick photo, you can make a report pseudo-anonymously via Gojo, the Treeleaf Bodhisattva of cooperative compassion by sending an email to: gojo@treeleaf.org.

Gassho,
Sekishi #sat

[Jishin]

Hi,

I live in a big house and my family needs help with the upkeep of the house and other things such as shopping, picking up kids from school, taking dogs to veterinarian, etc. We have a friend, Laura, that helps a lot. In addition to working for us, she is a wife and a mother to a physically and intellectually challenged daughter that requires 24/7 care. Laura receives limited assistance from the government to help with her daughter. She is not rich. She loves our animals (we have 6 dogs, 1 cat and lots of fish) and our animals love her. What I recently found out from our veterinarian, Dr. B., is that Laura finds animals hit by cars and brings them to her. Sometimes Dr. B. succeeds in making them better, all free of charge. Laura began paying Dr. B. for animals that she brings in as she feels bad Dr. B. has worked for free. Laura found a dog that appeared to have been hit on the side of the road and brought it Dr. B. It was a Rat Terrier. Turns out the Rat Terrier was just dehydrated and after 2 days of hydration it turned into a rocket. Rat Terriers are little rockets. The dog was taken to a no-kill pound and it was adopted in 2 days. What true Bodhisattvas! Laura and Dr. B. are true heroes. :)

Gassho, Jishin, ST

[Shugen]

Hello,

From the book, "Bigoted Stories For Children" by Robert Einstein

JUNDO: REMOVED FOR ETHNIC HUMOR

Gassho
Myosha
sat today

Can you explain how this is a story of compassion and kindness?

I apologize for not understanding.

Shugen

Sattoday


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Jakuden]

Hi,

I live in a big house and my family needs help with the upkeep of the house and other things such as shopping, picking up kids from school, taking dogs to veterinarian, etc. We have a friend, Laura, that helps a lot. In addition to working for us, she is a wife and a mother to a physically and intellectually challenged daughter that requires 24/7 care. Laura receives limited assistance from the government to help with her daughter. She is not rich. She loves our animals (we have 6 dogs, 1 cat and lots of fish) and our animals love her. What I recently found out from our veterinarian, Dr. B., is that Laura finds animals hit by cars and brings them to her. Sometimes Dr. B. succeeds in making them better, all free of charge. Laura began paying Dr. B. for animals that she brings in as she feels bad Dr. B. has worked for free. Laura found a dog that appeared to have been hit on the side of the road and brought it Dr. B. It was a Rat Terrier. Turns out the Rat Terrier was just dehydrated and after 2 days of hydration it turned into a rocket. Rat Terriers are little rockets. The dog was taken to a no-kill pound and it was adopted in 2 days. What true Bodhisattvas! Laura and Dr. B. are true heroes. :)

Gassho, Jishin, ST

[claps]

Gassho
Jakuden
SatToday

[Jakuden]

Ok here's my little contribution to help get the thread started: this weekend I drove my daughter to surprise her boyfriend at college and ask him to prom... then set them up with a romantic dinner at the hotel. (This is not entirely altruistic. I get to sit and enjoy pizza and Big Bang Theory reruns in the room all by myself) Hubby meanwhile drove our younger daughter to visit her friend who is in the hospital, delivered fresh eggs from our chickens to the neighbors, and called an elderly friend of one of my clients to offer handyman help.

I'm sure there are lots of folks out there with much better stories than mine, so come on let's hear 'em!

Gassho,
Jakuden
SatToday

[Koushu]

I and my wife live with my parents. Both my parents are in their 80s and my mother has a whole list of physical and psychological problems all tangled up. So in reality my father, my wife and I live in a hospice home.

Over the last couple of days my mother has gone into a whirlwind of emotion and down right vile anger towards my wife and I. This morning and afternoon I had no choice but to confront it. The anger had sparked in me and both my father and wife seen it and reminded me of my vows as a Buddhist practitioner. With a deep breath my mind silenced, filling with compassion my father and I confronted my mother's anger. Though no satisfactory solution came from it, in the case of my mother's demeanor, my father and wife saved me from watering the fires of anger that was building inside me.

Later in the silence my father thanked me for showing him "Zen Compassion, a steadfast calm that weathered the storm," for him and my wife.

Not much for this topic but it is what happened this week.

"By expressing Compassion in form, produced compassion and dropped anger from my heart." (My father)

Gassho
拡手
Koushu

Sattoday will sit again.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-J320A using Tapatalk

[Kyonin]

Hi all,

I have a local sitting group at a yoga studio and I lead zazen every Wednesday night. Last session a new woman came in, sat, listened to my little talk and at the end came to me and started crying. Her husband was diagnosed with cancer a few days back.

I listened and calmed her. I made her see that she was not alone. I talked to her about compassion, stillness and did my best to transmit confidence and strength. She left smiling and now she writes to me everyday.

She is getting at it one day at a time. I got a new friend.

Thank you for opening this thread, Sekishi :)

Gassho,

Kyonin
#SatToday

[Sekishi]

Hi everyone,

Just a little story for today about compost (not sure it qualifies as compassion or kindness, but it comes from a desire to do good in the world)...

My family has composted for years in a drum / spinning compost container. The problem is that when it is full, you really need to let it "cook" for a while so that the contents will break down and you have nice soil.

Late last summer I picked up a second (used) compost bin so that we could switch between them: when one is full, switch to the second one... But it was hot, and I was lazy, so I never set it up. And then it got cold, and I was lazy, so I never set it up.

Today I got it moved and all set up next to the first tumbler. Bring on the compost!

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170220/6a43bb56223b968733690c31de7dd93f.jpg

Gassho,
Sekishi #sat



Sent from my Tricorder using Tapatalk Pro

[Jundo]

This is not about how great someone is, or for the deeddoer to pat themself on the back about how saintly they are, but just doing stuff we can all do to help a neighbor. They are examples that we can all do.

I knew a local mother was overworked, so I offered to take her daughter to have a play date with my daughter. Worked out good for the woman, who got a few hours respite, for my daughter who got to play with a friend, and was no skin off my nose as I was taking my daughter somewhere anyway as it was Sunday.

Today, knew a neighbor had a doctors appointment but can't drive, so drove them to the appointment. I had to leave though, because of my own obligation, so they needed to take the bus home. Thus, it is only half a good deed.

Gassho, J

SatToday

[Jundo]

Hi Sekishi,

Maybe we should go 100% anonymous on these postings? That way folks can post and relate stores, or give examples of what they do, with no taking of credit unintentionally.

Let's talk about that, and moving in the direction. What do you think? Is it technically possible with "Gojo Bodhisattva" yet?

Gassho, Jundo

SatToday

[Koushu]

Gassho Jundo Sensei. Though the action was half the thought was whole. Is this not what we aspire to do with all sentient beings, without expectations of any reward, for it to just be. Both stories are wonderful.

Over the last few days it has been a trial and a deep look into how venomous the ego can be if it is untamed and let to its own devices. My mother today was still in a most foul mood this morning. My wife and I stayed in our room and studied. Near noon a Chan priest friend of mine pinged me on video chat. So I closed my bedroom door and prepared for Zazen. My friend and I did three rounds of the Heart Sutra in Japanese and three rounds of Zazen. When we were done I got to warm a cup of tea in the kitchen, my mom just stared at me but her face hard regained some luster and youth. I asked her if she was okay and she smiled and asked me to chant what I had been chanting in my room again. So I did. When I was finished she smiled and let me return to my studies.

My father told me thank you again and that mom was very relaxed and asked me to explain the chant. I remained him of our experience together in the snow and the silent bell ringing. That nothing is permanent. He nodded and said good night.

So for now the storm has passed, at least in the house.

Gassho
拡手
Koushu

Sattoday

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-J320A using Tapatalk

[Jishin]

Hi,

I am a doctor. Do nice things all day long. Pro bono work sometimes. But one of the proudest things I done is donate $3,500 to a dog shelter and kept 20 dogs alive for one month.

Another one was to walk a hungry man inside a supermarket and buy $100 of food for him. This made me feel good and ensure the money was not spent on drugs. I am sure the man appreciated too.

I am always compassionate and kind to my patients. But this in itself does not count in this context. When I go the extra mile, which I try to do as much as I can then this counts.

On the other hand, I can and am a first rate bastard on certain occasions and that is just me.

To talk about compassion and kindness without the opposite is not truth. Not the complete picture.

There are 3 kinds of gifts I think. 1. Material. 2. Knowledge. 3. Extinction of fear. Number 3 is the highest order of giving

Jundo gave me number 3 when he suggested that I look into the Heart Sutra. Otherwise he has been absolutely worthless.

I try to teach extinction of fear to my son, the highest act of compassion and kindness even if he thinks I am a bastard in the process.

Anyway, i just rather not talk about any of this and just do it.

My 2 cents.

Gasho, Jishin, _/st\_

[Sekishi]

Anyway, i just rather not talk about any of this and just do it.


Thank you for saying so Jishin. I said the same thing to Jundo (a number of times actually, until I was sort of a nuisance).

But a funny thing happened between there and here, I remembered the three treasures: Buddha, Dharma, Sangha. Sharing a little note from time to time about opportunities to do "extra" service in our homes, families, and world may help someone else find the courage or time or motivation to go the extra mile and help in their own way.

This is Sangha.

And if sharing a story with your name attached feels uncomfortable, send it to gojo@treeleaf.org, and it will be posted here anonymously.

Gassho,
Sekishi #sat

[Koushu]

Hi,

I am a doctor. Do nice things all day long. Pro bono work sometimes. But one of the proudest things I done is donate $3,500 to a dog shelter and kept 20 dogs alive for one month.

Another one was to walk a hungry man inside a supermarket and buy $100 of food for him. This made me feel good and ensure the money was not spent on drugs. I am sure the man appreciated too.

I am always compassionate and kind to my patients. But this in itself does not count in this context. When I go the extra mile, which I try to do as much as I can then this counts.

On the other hand, I can and am a first rate bastard on certain occasions and that is just me.

To talk about compassion and kindness without the opposite is not truth. Not the complete picture.

There are 3 kinds of gifts I think. 1. Material. 2. Knowledge. 3. Extinction of fear. Number 3 is the highest order of giving

Jundo gave me number 3 when he suggested that I look into the Heart Sutra. Otherwise he has been absolutely worthless.

I try to teach extinction of fear to my son, the highest act of compassion and kindness even if he thinks I am a bastard in the process.

Anyway, i just rather not talk about any of this and just do it.

My 2 cents.

Gasho, Jishin, _/st\_
Gassho Jishin.

For as the east winds blow my heart warms.
To this it changes south, my heart sets the seed.
West it raises to my hearts scythe to produce.
Blowing the bitter cold north, my heart retires to set no claim.
This is how it is.
Just is.

Gassho
拡手
Koushu

Satoday

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G891A using Tapatalk

[Gojo]

A Gojo story from a Sangha member:



Gojo has a co-worker (lets say "Mumei") who is preparing for an exam.

The office is very busy right now because many employees are ill, so the boss has denied Mumei time for studying at work (something which was allowed in the past).

Gojo has offered her to take over Mumei's job for one hour each day so that she can have that time to study.


Gassho.

[Jakuden]

http://www.inspiremore.com/

I have been mostly staying off of news sites and social media since the election. To replace them, I found a site that has uplifting stories of all kinds and donates to charity! If we all supported this kind of news reporting, it might turn the world into a kinder place.

Gassho,
Jakuden
SatToday

[Gojo]

A Gojo story from a Sangha member:



The grocery store was very busy this weekend. People were queuing in the shop, and I wanted to leave as quickly as I could. My cashier was Gojo.

Gojo pointed at my shopping and said smiling "Oh, that's an interesting mixture!" -- I had bought soy milk and bottles of liquid drain pipe cleaner. I could not help smiling back. - "Yes, one should not confuse what to put into the coffee!"

Gojo also had friendly remarks for the customers before and after me.

I know it is often mentioned here we can make these same small gestures. Experiencing this, I felt that it was genuine and authentic.
I really admire this.


Gassho.

[Joyo]

I have enjoyed reading everyone's stories this week. I guess it is time to now share my own.

As I've said before, I am a quiet, introvert and somehow I ended up being the mom of two loud, messy boys. lol! This past week I have been sick with an ear infection and the kids have been home from school. All I have wanted to do was stay in bed and sleep. In the past, this type of scenario has made me irritable, and impatient with them. This week, I decided to be more aware of my attitude and actions and to focus on being kind to them. I also decided to live with equanimity. I have watched my tone of voice, I have disciplined without getting irritable (especially when my 11-yr-old turns into a know-it-all teen), and I have even spent quality time with them. Yes, I am trying to have a better attitude for them, but also, I have noticed that I am learning to live with equanimity, acceptance and gratefulness even in the midst of the noise, the messes, and an ear infection all in one week. =)

Gassho,
Joyo
sat today---with 2 noisy boys in the background

[Gojo]

A story from a Sangha member in which Gojo appears in multiple forms:



I have a housekeeper come, and they enter while I'm at work with a key. This time, I received a very distressed call from the cleaner. After a few minutes in the house, he was called outside by the cops who had guns drawn because they were called about a home invasion in progress.

I spoke with him and let him work through the event and relax a little. I told him he was welcome to stay and relax or leave as soon as he wanted, and offered to come home. Whatever he needed. After a while he said he was ok, and was going to head out.

After the phone call I got back to work, and had to tell a few people why I had been on the phone so long. Most people remarked something like, "Ugh, tell your neighbors to get a life and stop being nosey."

My husband asked, "Do you know which neighbor called?" I was perplexed and said yeah the one straight across, why? His reply was that he wanted to go over and thank them. Even through they got it wrong, they were watching out for us and we should thank them.


Gojo is manifested by law enforcement, who ended the situation safely for all involved.
Gojo is manifested by our Sangha friend, who listened to the housekeeper and offered comfort.
Gojo is manifested by the husband of our Sangha friend, who thanked the neighbors.
Gojo is manifested by the housekeeper, who was just doing his job and stayed calm.
Gojo is manifested by the neighbors, who were looking out for the wellbeing of those around them.

Metta to all involved.

Gassho.

[Tai Shi]

Each day I call a woman who at and in her 40 s is dying, and was a primy at birth, and I have been calling her since over a year now, and have grown to love her as a great friend, and I am not sure she knows exactly what she means and what friendship means, and this is through a special program that unites an older person, me, and a person in need, and I call each day, and was not able to call an older woman. And there was a woman dropped from this program who I still call sometimes, AND this young woman who I have come to love, And this other woman who I gave a wonderful tablet to, And it seems I am giving away the stuff I do not need, and each Item is worth a lot, and I am divesting, well this younger woman, I am crying right now because I DO NOT WANT HER TO DIE, and I reach out to those Christian, and Buddhist beliefs. Oh I know what the heart means and it is breaking, and I weep. AND I WILL NEVER QUIT CALLING!

Tai Shi
through all those tears
std
Gassho _/|\_

[Shoki]

The other night I was enjoying one of my favorite activities, watching stupid YouTube videos. After randomly hopping from one thing to another somehow I came upon this disturbing video of a man having a very bad drug experience on a busy city street. He was walking in traffic, ranting and raving, flailing around. Not pretty. Of course the reaction of most of the passersby was to take out their phones and video the guy. It was great entertainment for them. I was ready to click off of the video when they guy was approached by two men wearing Muslim clothing. They kindly talked the guy down and calmed him. Because the freak show was over for the mob, the video ended. I guess the point is sometimes to do the right thing you have to stand out from the crowd. Also, not all acts of kindness go over so well. If I catch an insect in the house I will catch it and let it go out of doors because I just won't kill something for no reason. This usually leads to eye rolling and questions about my sanity. Try confronting a racist hater. See what kind of reaction you get. I guess the point, if I have one, is to be ready. These are just small things. I can imagine what the people who really put themselves out there put up with.

Gassho
Sat Today
James

[Kyotai]

Wonderful thread. Thank you

Gassho, Kyotai
ST

[Gojo]

A Gojo story from a Sangha member:



Many people in Gojo's neighborhood dislike cats because of religious beliefs and simple ignorance, so people mistreat them and even kill them when they can. But cats are a pretty strong species and not only do they remain, but they multiply!

At nights when no one is watching, Gojo sets out food and water for them, and sometimes a litter box. On hot days Gojo puts out fresh water and sometimes food for the street dogs.

Gojo wishes to do more, but this at least helps the little furry neighbors. They need some care too! :)

Love to all sentient beings!


Gassho.

[Gojo]

A Gojo story from a Sangha member:



This morning Gojo found a dog. Gojo saw him by the trash cans as they were leaving for work. Gojo got out of the car and started trying to call the dog. A neighbor came out to help. After a little coaxing the dog walked up to Gojo, took some treats and Gojo and the neighbor were able to put a slip lead on him.

Gojo took him home, and tasked their "other half" with taking him to the shelter. Pictures were taken and posted to Facebook, and some lost and found groups.

Gojo hopes he finds his home.


4048

Gassho.

[Geika]

Last week, at Lowe's where my mom works, she noticed that an elderly woman was buying some wooden trellace to hide her AC unit. The woman was asking for it to be cut. They told her no, so my mom offered to take it home and cut it to size and deliver it to her later at no charge. She did, and I went with her to put it together. It was so nice to see how happy it made the lady to have some help, as she seemed to live alone. She thought that it was so funny that two women had done all the handiwork, while it was a capable young man who had refused!

Gassho, sat today

[Kyonin]

Hi everyone,

These past few years I have been in touch with several people from Venezuela. If you think life is tough wherever you are, things in Venezuela make human life super complex and hard. There is no food, energy, jobs, money, medical services, fresh water is hard to come by and corruption and drug lords rule the government. On top of that, street violence is beyond words.

So my friends in Venezuela found me (each in their own time) on the Internet because they were looking to end the inner chaos and confusion. I began to chat with each of them. Eventually we met over Skype and in time I taught them what little I know about zazen and basic Buddhism.

To some of them it was all BS. They want revolution, instant change. They want to see the president dead. And I never heard from them again.

But the ones that listened, that stayed and learned to sit zazen with me, started to see things in a different light. I shared with them some Spanish dharma books, I respond to every single email and text message, I meet with them over Skype regularly and the 5 of them are doing fine. I talk to them about Gratitude, Compassion and Generosity, about the Four Noble Truths and how to find the way in a world of violence and selfishness.

And then there's Mabel. She is a young dentist that was in deep suffering for seeing how things are in her community. On top of that she was in an abusive relationship that had her sick and mentally wasted.

Over the years we remained in touch and then I lost track of her. I was worried for many months because other than Skype or email, I have no way of contacting her.

A couple of days ago she wrote to me. She is doing well and she is happier than ever. Despite the social chaos and having little food, she is working with her community helping kids to take care of their teeth. She gives free dental care with whatever resources she can get in the black market. And she reads dharma and sits zazen everyday.

She doesn't have money to have an altar, so she made one. There is no incense available and she can't use candles for the altar because her family needs them for the nights. So she drew a Buddha and made 3 paper pyramids for the Triple Gem.

Mabel is Gojo. She is us. And I am humbled and grateful for having her as a friend.

4023

Gassho for all the silent Bodhisattvas,

Kyonin
#SatToday

[Sekishi]

She doesn't have money to have an altar, so she made one. There is no incense available and she can't use candles for the altar because her family needs them for the nights. So she drew a Buddha and made 3 paper pyramids for the Triple Gem.

Mabel is Gojo. She is us. And I am humbled and grateful for having her as a friend.


I do not even know what do say. Thank your for sharing this story Kyonin.

Thank you Mabel.

Nine bows to all silent Bodhisattvas.

Sekishi #sat

[Geika]

What a lovely altar. Nothing missing at all.

Gassho, sat today

[Nengyo]

And then there's Mabel. She is a young dentist that was in deep suffering for seeing how things are in her community. On top of that she was in an abusive relationship that had her sick and mentally wasted.

Over the years we remained in touch and then I lost track of her. I was worried for many months because other than Skype or email, I have no way of contacting her.

A couple of days ago she wrote to me. She is doing well and she is happier than ever. Despite the social chaos and having little food, she is working with her community helping kids to take care of their teeth. She gives free dental care with whatever resources she can get in the black market. And she reads dharma and sits zazen everyday.

She doesn't have money to have an altar, so she made one. There is no incense available and she can't use candles for the altar because her family needs them for the nights. So she drew a Buddha and made 3 paper pyramids for the Triple Gem.

Mabel is Gojo. She is us. And I am humbled and grateful for having her as a friend.



_/\_

If you ever get a good address for her let me know. I will round up whatever medical/dental supplies I can find and send them her way.

[Kyonin]

_/\_

If you ever get a good address for her let me know. I will round up whatever medical/dental supplies I can find and send them her way.

Thank you, Nengyo. Yes, I have asked for a safe address or way to send her stuff. Lets hope she gets one soon and I'll let you know.

Gassho,

Kyonin
#SatToday

[Gojo]

This morning Gojo found a dog. Gojo saw him by the trash cans as they were leaving for work.


A photo has been added to this story. Beautiful doggo. 14/10 - would pet with many hands.

Gassho.

[Jakuden]

Aw, looks like an Australian shepherd or husky mix. What beautiful eyes. Hope he finds his way home.

Gassho,
Jakuden
SatToday

[Kyonin]

Hi guys,

I'd like to share something that happened here at home a couple weeks ago but I was not ready to talk about it because it touched sensitive fibers in my heart. I wasn't sure if I had to put my name on this, but I think this thread serves us all as inspiration to talk about the things we do on our practice to make compassion a motive of our lives.

So I work at home and my desk is right next to a window where I can see the little garden we have in the front of the house. I can see outside but people can't see to the inside.

I usually hear earbuds with music to isolate myself from the busy street, but that morning I had no music. I was going through a project and I heard the garden gate open. That's not strange at all because mailman and neighbors have free access. You have to enter to knock on the door. But this was strange, sneaky.

I looked outside. A woman (brain and body destroyed by drugs) broke into my house. I saw her stealing some garden tools, put them into her bag and went away. I sprung up off of my chair, went outside and firmly asked her to return the tools.

She panicked and emptied her bag, things falling to the pavement. Then she took her t-shirt off saying that she didn't take anything. She was getting naked in front of me, in plain street. We discussed for a bit and then I saw that she had thrown the tools to another yard (neighbor's). I simply took the tools back and said that if she needed food or help all she had to do was to knock, but not steal!

I went back in, put the tools inside. And then, without thinking I went to the kitchen and put some fruit in a bag and went back out again. I ran to meet her again. She was sitting in the sidewalk and was starting to eat some food she had collected from the street. I said again that if she needed help, all she had to do was to knock and ask. I gave her the fruit and she thanked me.

This situation touched me. How broken a person has to be to put her dignity and body out as currency to get herself out of trouble? How many times has she done this? We as a society ignore these people, we deny them and don't even think of them as persons. We ignore them. We treat animals better!

A lot of things came to my mind, but I had to let them all go. All I know is that we still have a long way to go as humanity. I know a little fruit won't save this woman, but a little compassion and a smile can truly change a life.

But we don't stop. Compassion never stops. Our practice never has to stop.

Be kind. Help the people we ignore.

Gassho,

Kyonin

[Mp]

But we don't stop. Compassion never stops. Our practice never has to stop.

Be kind. Help the people we ignore.


Beautiful! Thank you Kyonin. =)

Gassho
Shingen

s@today

[Washin]

Thank you, Kyonin gassho2

Gassho
Washin
sat

[Geika]

Good job, Kyonin. Gassho

Sat today

[Jakuden]

Aw. Thank you Kyonin, a sad but inspiring story. I hope the seed of kindness you planted will grow.
Gassho
Jakuden
SatToday


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Shugen]

One seed at a time....

Thank you Kyonin.

Gassho,

Shugen

Sattoday

[Jakuden]

Hi all,
I'm sure you are aware of the of violence against gays going on in Chechnya. There is a charity called Rainbow Railroad, I donated to help LGBTQ folks escape situations like this where they are being persecuted. It can be Googled or found on Facebook pretty easily. https://www.rainbowrailroad.ca/

Gassho
Jakuden
SatToday


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Jishin]

Hi,

My wife has been making donations but I don't know to whom. I can tell because of the credit card statements. I don't want to ask to which organisations because its personal and I am scared that she would shame me for wasting money on things I don't need if I ask. Since I live in Texas and our assets are jointly owned I am making donations too except I don't know to whom! :)

Gassho, Jishin, ST

[Gojo]

How Terra and her human manifest Gojo:



My dog training club has a saying, "Adopt a poop". If you see an abandoned poop, adopt it and take it home (to the trash). This is because we don't want the practice field to slowly get overloaded with piles which take forever to decompose and aren't much good for the environment.

Terra and I have taken that on the road, I call it Poop Patrol. When we are hiking she caries a small pack, and we stop and pick-up abandoned poops. They go in her bag until we get to a trash can.

I get some strange looks when we dump all of it. But as more and more trails are closing to dogs, I like to think we are doing our part to keep them clean and open for all.

Here is Terra happily doing her part.


4177

Gassho.

[Mp]

The Poop Patrol in your neighbourhood ... you go Terra and your human companion. :encouragement:

Gassho
Shingen

s@today

[Kyonin]

Hi all.

I call this story "Mariachi water!".

First the setting for this little story. I live in Guadalajara, Mexico, the homeland to the Mariachi musicians. Yes, they were invented here. It's not uncommon to see Mariachi musicians walking down the street, specially in downtown. (Just a quick note on that. The word mariachi comes from the French word marriage. About 130 years ago those were the defacto musicians for weddings and became a national symbol).

The other day I was walking in the city to go to a meeting. It was a hot day and I got thirsty. I entered to a convenience store, picked up a bottle of water. When I got to the register I realized I had forgotten all my money at home.

Right behind me there was a Mariachi guy in the line to pay for some snakcs. He heard I told the guy at the counter that I had forgotten my money.

Gojo Mariachi San picked the bottle of water, payed for it and handed it to me.

I was speechless but managed to tell him that all I needed to do was to go back home to get my wallet.

He said that he knew what it was to be thirsty and have no money for water. He reminded me that I can always pay that water back to someone else.

I accepted the bottle of water, we said goodbye and we parted ways.

The very next day I got the chance to by lunch for a homeless person. :)

Kindness moves in perfect circles!

Gassho,

Kyonin
SatToday

[Gojo]

The unity of giver, receiver, and gift:



Down the block where Gojo lives there is a family with a kid whom is a star. Everybody loves him. He is a teenager with Down's Syndrome and he can't speak. But he is always playing with his toy cars and trucks. He is always smiling and talking to people on the street. And he loves to sing while "playing" his guitar.

But one day the kid stopped singing. The whole street lost color and joy and for many days there was no "music".

Gojo asked his mom what happened and she said that the kid broke the guitar while singing a very emotional song. And she had no money to get a new one.

Gojo asked her to wait and went to his house to get his guitar. Gojo gave the guitar to the mom so the kid would have a new one.

A couple of days passed and the kid resumed his concertos while wearing his cowboy hat... or his fireman hat.

Gojo has no guitar now, but doesn't care one bit because the kid is happy again.


Gassho.

[Shoka]

Today I quietly listened with a smile as someone yelled at me for disrupting their life, etc. etc. I explained why and made my apologies and then just waited.

One thing that Buddhism has has shown me is someone else's anger is theirs and not something I can match or control so screaming and reacting are not of use.

Gassho,

Shoka
sattoday

[Jundo]

Today I quietly listened with a smile as someone yelled at me for disrupting their life, etc. etc. I explained why and made my apologies and then just waited.

One thing that Buddhism has has shown me is someone else's anger is theirs and not something I can match or control so screaming and reacting are not of use.

Gassho,

Shoka
sattoday

gassho1 Wise.

And sometimes the person is still right, and we listen calmly then proceed to learn from the comments and correct the situation as best we can.

And sometimes the person is just wrong, and we simply let it roll past. :black_eyed:

Gassho, J

SatToday

[Gojo]

Displaying gratitude and love towards the people in our lives manifests the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas:



I had this opportunity about two months ago. My daughter’s best friend recreated something called a Kyros experience (a Catholic practice that I am unfamiliar with) for her, where friends and family write letters of love and support telling a person how much she means to them and how much they love her, and then surprise her at a gathering where everyone prays for the person and spends quality time together. The family isn’t there but the friends are. It’s a type of youth group retreat, from what I understand.

So I wrote a letter to my daughter and told her what a special young woman she has become, how she is my dear friend and confidante, how brilliant and smart she is, how much we love her, how much her sister looks up to her and respects her, and how her presence in the world already makes the world a better place to be in. She doesn’t see herself as anything special, but so many of us do, and I tried to convey this in my letter to her, what a wonderful caring person she is, and that our lives are enriched and blessed for her presence in our lives.

She wasn’t expecting that at all, and she loved it. She loved all of her letters, and she wasn’t expecting mine - well, she wasn’t entirely surprised by mine (was a typical "mom" letter), but she said she was deeply touched by it. I’m glad I got to let her know, as I’m more of a "show, don’t tell". But sometimes telling is important also, as people don’t always understand our actions, and we need to hear that we are loved as well.


Gassho.

[Gojo]

Gojo story for today. Gojo notes, "This did not spring from a self-image, or an intention to be kind. It is being shared to support this forum, but otherwise I would not dwell on it, or analyze it. It is one of those things that happens, and you let it go."



This was at work. A person, who I do not know very well, was becoming angry and disruptive to the work environment. Other people went quiet and appeared uncomfortable. Being in a position of "authority" I was at the receiving end of hostility. All attempts at discussion, placating, or settling the person, were met with growing hostility. It became one of those situations were if you stepped to the left it was wrong, if you stepped to the right it was wrong, foreword, backward, wrong. If you do not move it is wrong. The room, which was normally full of chatter, became chilled. I am a male, and the other person is a female, and at work, especially when you are in a "leadership" position, there are clear boundaries around personal space and physical contact. These boundaries are there for a very good reason, and I am mindful and respectful of them. Yet in this situation the spontaneous action was to step forward and embrace her. I held her and told her she was completely accepted. She broke down in tears and described her own situation, which involved grief over a recent death and a continuing eldercare situation that was leaving her exhausted.

It was a spontaneous act of compassion that was an exception to social convention, and it brought healing to everyone in the room.


A simple hug manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



A lot of my interaction at work is done over the phone. I have actually known some people for a very long time, but have never met in person. Because of that I try my best to make the phone interaction more than just cut and dry. I try to remember if someone was on vacation, had a baby, likes to hike on the weekends; so I can ask a question that is semi-personal and actually get to know people a little.

Sometimes because I'm in a hurry I get people mixed up and ask the wrong question for the person I'm speaking with. I was on the phone recently and asked, "how is the baby?" The response I got took my breath away, "She is still aweful, just so horrible."

From there of course I asked, "What's wrong?" And got a very long story about a little girl who is very sick and the doctors don't know what is wrong, and aren't doing tests to find anything. She told me the whole story, with lots of detail. I listened and asked questions.

I shared a medical story with her, and encouraged her to keeping fighting even through it was hard. I told a funny story about me in the ER and made her laugh.

Then we switched to work conversation, but at the end of the call she said, "Thank you so much, you don't know how much it means to hear your story and get support."

I told her I would keep her and her daughter in my thoughts and good luck.

Sometimes being engaged isn't easy. When the story started flowing, it was awful and made me feel horrible. It wasn't a happy conversation. I wanted to cry for her. I was sitting on a construction job site during this conversation, so I was also having people come up to try to talk with me, and emails flying in. But in that moment there wasn't nothing else as important as letting her have the space to speak to someone.

It was such a simple question, but it made a huge difference in that moment.


Asking a question and listening deeply to the response manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Jishin]

When my son was younger, my in-laws took him to walk with them at the mall where they did their daily walking for exercise. After walking they would gather at the food court with the other senior citizens, drink coffee and visit. One senior was Sam. He had been a WWII veteran and most of his family had passed. Whenever he saw my son he always made my son very happy by giving him candy. We invited him one time to my son's birthday and he really enjoyed himself. He was lonely and in his 80's. On a different occasion I had taken my son to McDonald's and saw Sam there. My son played in the playground and I listened to Sam talk about whatever came up. He had been very proud to have been in the war and received numerous awards. I listened intently, for about an hour. I could tell he was really appreciative to have someone that would just listen to him. After one hour or so I left with my son. Sam died within the month but the hour I spent was priceless, for both of us.

Respect your seniors. They really appreciate it.

My 2 cents.

Gassho, Jishin, ST

[Shokai]

Most of you know my partner Doreen had emergency surgery recently that caused her a lot of pain and anxiety. On a follow up visit to the doctor, after his examination he told her he was very pleased with the way it all went and said he didn't have to see her again for two months.
As he was leaving the room Doreen thanked him for what he had done for her and as busy a he was, he returned, put his hand on her arm and said," I really wish I could have restored your vision for you."
It was amazing how she perked right up. She later told me she had been feeling pretty well used up and didn't know how she could cope with any more pain but, his small gesture made her think, "hey, I am worth it" From then on she has been a lot happier and more comfortable.

Tell people how you really feel.

gassho,

sat today

[Mp]

Most of you know my partner Doreen had emergency surgery recently that caused her a lot of pain and anxiety. On a follow up visit to the doctor, after his examination he told her he was very pleased with the way it all went and said he didn't have to see her again for two months.
As he was leaving the room Doreen thanked him for what he had done for her and as busy a he was, he returned, put his hand on her arm and said," I really wish I could have restored your vision for you."
It was amazing how she perked right up. She later told me she had been feeling pretty well used up and didn't know how she could cope with any more pain but, his small gesture made her think, "hey, I am worth it" From then on she has been a lot happier and more comfortable.

Tell people how you really feel.

gassho,

sat today
Beautiful stoey Shokai, thank you for sharing ... It brought a smile and tear to my eye. =)

Gassho
Shingen

s@today

[Sekishi]

[emoji120][emoji120][emoji120]
Sekishi #sat



Sent from my Tricorder using Tapatalk Pro

[Sekishi]

Hello friends,

This is no great service or compassion, but I thought I'd share anyway because even "chores" can be engaged action in the world when approached as such. Caring for our bodies, families, homes, and neighborhoods is service too.

My family and I have been planting trees, and trying to encourage "volunteer" trees and shrubs (particularly fruiting varieties for the local wildlife) to return as much of our little 2 acre domain to a "natural" state as possible. Part of this process is to prune (or even remove) some new growth a few times a year to avoid overcrowding. Another part is simply trimming and weed-whacking to keep poison ivy, tick habitats, and snake hidy places away from where the humans or dog spend their time.

First: our old pollution generating weed whacker finally gave up the ghost last year, so this winter I replaced it with a much cleaner electric model. Woohoo!

Second: Life has been chaotic the past month or two in our household and finding time to devote to things as "mundane" as yardwork has been difficult. But they must be done (too many places with tall grass to hide in and turtles or bunnies are in danger from the lawnmower, room for snakes and humans to see each other clearly makes them better neighbors, etc.). I quit work early today and spent the daylight hours trying to approach the tasks as practice, open handed with an attitude of giving and simple presence. No thought of "getting finished". Through simple activity tall grass was trimmed, poison ivy was moved away from high traffic areas, and branches pruned themselves. :D

An old Buddha once said "everything we meet is our lives" (Uchiyama maybe?). So I endeavor to meet "chores" and even that ol poison ivy with compassion and an open heart.

Asthmatic selfie:
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170517/22c05f970d2236c23be4e6e04474fe34.jpg

Gassho,
Sekishi #sat #trimmed


Sent from my Tricorder using Tapatalk Pro

[RichardH]

The person talking in this recording is Carl. Carl is 91 and he had a very bad heart attack a few days ago. The cardiologist told me there is nothing more to do but keep him comfortable. He is not expected to live long due to the damage to his heart, and to kidney failure. Yesterday he shared a story that he has not talked about since it happened. It was on D day. It is not a blood and guts war story, but it is something that has weighed on his heart. I'm no editor but was able to piece together just over ten minutes from over thirty with pauses and non-lucid moments.


https://soundcloud.com/richard-herman-700471910/carls-prisoner-story/s-V0lEb

Gassho
Daizan

Sat today

[Jakuden]

The person talking in this recording is Carl. Carl is 91 and he had a very bad heart attack a few days ago. The cardiologist told me there is nothing more to do but keep him comfortable. He is not expected to live long due to the damage to his heart, and to kidney failure. Yesterday he shared a story that he has not talked about since it happened. It was on D day. It is not a blood and guts war story, but it is something that has weighed on his heart. I'm no editor but was able to piece together just over ten minutes from over thirty with pauses and non-lucid moments.


https://soundcloud.com/richard-herman-700471910/carls-prisoner-story/s-V0lEb

Gassho
Daizan

Sat today

No words. It sounds like Carl knew there was nothing wrong with being kind to another human being, and risked his own safety to bring friendship and comfort to another. Can you pass on thanks, for his bravery and example?

Gassho,
Jakuden
SatToday

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



A silly simple kindness that can bring a smile to someone's face. Today I found this on my white board. It made me smile and feel like someone cares. I don't know who put it there, but it will stay for a while.


4215

Helping someone smile manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



A friend of mine recently purchased 3 music concert tickets for two senior blind ladies and a driver and arranged for the driver to pick them up in time for the concert.


The gift of music (and a night out!) manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



Today I was not in a rush, so I gave up my place in line to people a few times. They did not know, because I just ducked to the back of the line or a different line when I was near the front. Nobody noticed me. I was not in a hurry, and they might be hungrier, more tired or needed to get home. I don't know, but I was not in any rush today. In fact, it was a nice lesson in slowing down, intentionally not rushing. Why do we rush even when not in a rush?


Putting others before ourselves (even in the checkout line) manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



Where I live, we haul our own trash to the dump about 20 minutes away (there is no pick-up). We loaded up our pickup truck on Friday, but did not actually go to the dump until Saturday. Overnight a skink must have climbed into back of the truck to investigate. So on Saturday while I was throwing trash into the compactor I uncovered the little fella who was quite scared. I gathered up some rope and a sheet of cardboard to made a little "nest" for him to hide in on the drive home. He scurried in and stayed there. I stopped once on the drive home to check on him (which is when I took this photo).

4235

Offering temporary comfort to a frightened being manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



Several years ago, a co-worker was crying in the office... when I asked her why, she revealed that she and her husband had a fight and he was very unkind to her on Mother's Day. He scoffed at her for choosing asparagus for her Mother's Day dinner, among other things. That night I went home and picked some asparagus for her from my garden and brought it in the next day. I have done it every spring since.

Today it occurred to me that it was asparagus season, so I went out to look and sure enough the first crop is there. I picked her a nice big bunch of fat stalks and will bring them in tomorrow. [happy]


Offering asparagus manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Hoko]

Thus have I heard:



Offering asparagus manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

This is the best thing I've read all day.

Gassho,
Hoko
#SatToday
LAH (not asparagus though...)

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:


I was in the park yesterday with my child, saw where someone had left a pack of cigarettes and a plastic lighter where kids could get it. Nobody was around. I also saw some bottles and cans nearby. Grabbed a garbage bag from the car and picked most of it up. I think there are cleaning people for the park, but I am not sure when they come.

Making the world cleaner and safer manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



Saw a young waitress in a restaurant today, she looked like she was struggling with orders and messed up ours a little. Found out that she is from Georgia, the country not the U.S. State. Looked up how to say in Georgian "Thank you, you are doing great." (დიდი მადლობა. თქვენ აკეთებთ კარგ საქმეს. - didi madloba. t’k’ven aket’ebt’ karg sak’mes.) She laughed, and I think she said "you're welcome" (but I can't be sure).


Offering a kind word (even if awkwardly pronounced!) manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Sekishi]

I saw this quote from Mr. Rogers (the host of a lovely and gentle children's program that ran for decades here in the US) on social media today, and I thought I share it here:


When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, "Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping."

This is a deep lesson for us all. When the world seems bleak and our hearts broken, look for the helpers. And if we have the opportunity, BE the helpers.

Gassho,
Sekishi #sat #lah

P.S. "Quotes" from social media are often problematic, but it looks like Mr. Rogers really did say this: http://www.snopes.com/radiotv/tv/scarynews.asp

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



I helped a co-worker that everyone finds very difficult to work with on a project today.

This fellow is deeply bitter and flies into a rage at almost everything at work. We work in support services (IT) and pretty much everyone avoids being around him, customers and co-workers alike. He struggles with alcoholism and smokes like a freight train. He is very angry, all the time.

He called me today and asked if I could help him run some cabling on a new site. I didn't hesitate to agree. While we were working he would become angry, on the verge of blowing up but I would smile at him, say positive things and 'poke' a joke or two at some of the issues we had come up. He made it though the project, which took most of the day, without any 'explosions'.

It may not be much, but I was thankful to have the opportunity to get him through at least one 'good' day this week at work.

I even got him to laugh and smile a few times. :)


Helping someone have a "good" day doing their work manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



Offered a close friend some words of comfort due to knowledge that one of the people close to him is going to die.

I said that I would be there for him if he needed anything and wanted someone to talk to.


Offering comfort and deep listening manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



Today I write with a sad story of compassion and a reminder that being compassionate doesn't always mean doing a nice thing. Sometimes the compassionate thing is ugly, horrible and hurts so very much.

I called a friend after seeing a strange post on Facebook, I was concerned. Within moments she was crying because the person who had posted it had not been acting like themselves for weeks. She didn't feel she could turn to anyone and didn't know what to do.

I have seen mental illness many times, and all the signs are there... including the trigger.

Now we are planning an intervention, which could very well end in police and a 3-day hold. It is a sad sad thing to do to someone you love. They often hate you for a long time, eventually they may see it was done out of love and compassion.

If anyone has a moment please offer metta for people suffering from mental illness, and for those who love them, who have to make the hard choice to not be nice, but be compassionate.


Offering aid is not always easy. Mental afflictions such as fear and doubt can make it difficult for us to act.

Much Metta for all those who suffer from mental illness, those who love them, and those who act from compassion.

Gassho.

[Jakuden]

Thank you! If that was my family member or friend, I would be eternally grateful for the help.
Gassho
Jakuden
SatToday


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[RichardH]

No words. It sounds like Carl knew there was nothing wrong with being kind to another human being, and risked his own safety to bring friendship and comfort to another. Can you pass on thanks, for his bravery and example?

Gassho,
Jakuden
SatToday

Hi Jakuden. First of all I am sorry for not following up on this post earlier. Today I passed on your thanks for his bravery and example. Carl is not a crier, but he did tear up when he heard this. It means a lot to him. This was an incident that he did not share with his own family, because at the time it was disgraceful and shameful, and he had carried that shame all these years

thank you. He has diminished since the recording two weeks ago, but is still sitting up and talking.

Gassho
Daizan

Sat today/ LAH
Daizan

[Gojo]

http://www.cbsnews.com/news/portland-train-stabbing-witness-recalls-victims-last-words/

Thus have I heard...

On Friday on a Portland Oregon (USA) light-rail train, a man stabbed three men who intervened when he allegedly yelled racial slurs at two young women, one of whom was wearing a hijab.

A woman [Rachel Macy] who tried to help one of the Portland train stabbing victims [Taliesin Myrddin Namkai-Meche] in his final moments is speaking out about his last words:



... "I told him, 'You're a beautiful man. I'm so sorry the world is so cruel,'" Macy said.

"He [Meche] said, 'Tell them, I want everybody to know, I want everybody on the train to know, I love them,'" she said. "He was a beautiful man, that's what I want people to know."


Macy says she isn't angry about the attack:


"I wanted to wake up and be mad and blame something or someone," Macy said. "And I can't. It's not what he [Meche] would have wanted."


Placing one's body in danger to help another being manifest's Gojo.
Using one's voice to cool the fires of anger and hatred manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



Last night I felt very bad, having a cold and not being able to sleep and feeling sad about the state of my life, the world, the universe etc.

I called a friend who I had not seen in a long time, but I know he stays up late.
So I asked if he'd like to go for a walk, and we met at midnight.

He didn't ask what was wrong, but told me what had happened in his life.
About finally finding a job.
About being in debt.
About having a row with a friend about something quite stupid.

Taking someone out for a walk and out of their own narrow minds at midnight is manifesting compassion -/\-


Two friends, one sharing their difficulties, one listening (and temporarily forgetting their own difficulties) -- both manifest Gojo.

Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



This evening I was able to help shepherd some kids out of harms way at a gathering when a guest had too much to drink and reacted badly. He became violent and vulgar in front of the children. The men got involved to intervene and I quietly took the children into another room (with an exit) out of sight and earshot of the person. The incident was resolved some minutes later with no one hurt and no damages, and the children are fine, just some shaken nerves.


In Zen practice we often turn to face difficulties head-on without flinching, but when we shield others from pain and fear we manifest Gojo.

Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



Checking out some groceries at the one store in the local area that is the worst in it’s chain but it is what is available. Messed up what I intended to buy versus what I had the lady check out. She fixed it calmly and efficiently. I made sure to tell the manager about her good work. Figured that it can’t be much fun standing up all day checking groceries so a bit of praise might make her day a bit better. Made mine better too!


Paying attention to our work and efficiently helping others manifests Gojo.
Appreciating others' work and offering gratitude manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



I passed a very large snapping turtle attempting to make her way across a four lane divided road. She had obviously just left a nearby pond and was likely on her way to lay eggs.

The road was busy, but not impossible to cross for such a turtle. I parked nearby and got out. I figured that if I stood on the side of the road people would notice a person and the hazard lights flashing on the car (and would therefor notice the large turtle too).

But she was obviously nervous about having a human and car nearby and stopped moving. I walked down the road a way in hopes that she would no longer be frightened and would continue on her way. But it didn't work. After a few minutes it was obvious that my presence actually increased the danger to her. I got in the car and left.


4266

Sometimes knowing when NOT to act manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Sekishi]

Hello friends,

I wrote this a few weeks ago in the "going away and coming back" thread:


Last week my Dharma brother (from my local Sangha) ended up in the ICU with an extremely rare and life threatening confluence of conditions.

Doug is home again, and we've been able to sit together twice. He is not quite his old self yet, but is seeing steady improvement.

4272

I just wanted to say thank you for the Metta, well wishing PMs, and general kindness of Treeleaf members (and Doug sends his heartfelt thank-yous as well for the Metta).

I also wanted to offer my deep gratitude for the many dear Bodhisattvas who cared for Doug in the hospital, and the friends and neighbors that have been helping out. Each manifests Gojo.

Deep bows,
Sekishi #sat #lah

[Jundo]

gassho1

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



Fourteen years ago my wife spent six months coaxing a feral tom-cat, gaining his trust through kind words and offerings of food and water. Once she gained his trust, she was able to catch him (although not without some significant scratches and bites) and move him into a spare room in our house. A few days later he realized that humans were actually pretty nice and became a sweet kitty named "Bert" (short for "sherbert") nearly overnight.

Bert greeted strangers, contractors, and visiting family and friends with equal enthusiasm. He was kind to every stray animal and hard-luck case we ever brought into our home. He followed us from room to room, and from home to office. We often said "whereever you go, theres a Bert".

In the last year Bert developed kidney and thyroid issues that required twice daily medication and periodic trips to the vet, which he took in stride.

The past month or so has been a slow and steady decline in his condition. "Dr. Sam" has been wonderful in helping us manage symptoms and keep Bert under palliative care. However, on Friday it was clear that he was in significant discomfort and his body was failing. Unfortunately Dr. Sam was leaving early, and we were faced with a weekend without care or options. Dr. Sam gave us his home address, and we took Bert to see him. Under a huge old oak tree in Dr. Sam's front yard (the house was built in the 1850's and I suspect the tree has been there since then), Bert laid in my lap while Dr. Sam gave him two final injections. He faded out surrounded by the sounds and smells of summer, and with the people who loved him.

Thank you Dr. Sam, for caring for Bert and for letting us come to your home.


4273


Each being in this story manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Gojo]

A wild Gojo spotted at a hospital!

4274

Caring for oneself (and cleanliness) cares for others (and their health). This manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



I saw this on Twitter this morning: make the world a better place via your continued existence.

Original comic from:
http://nellucnhoj.com/


4275

"Be good to each other" manifests Gojo.



"To avoid all evil
To do good.
To purify one's mind.
This is the teaching of all the Buddhas."

--Dhammapāda, XIV, 5 ,


Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



Last week I wrote about the snapping turtle that I was not able to help across the road.

This weekend I saw a little box turtle trying to cross the road, so I picked him up and carried him to the other side.

Note to self: there is always another turtle!


4279

Knowing when to act and when not to act, this manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



So a friend of a friend decided to buy two little ducks because she thought they were cute, but then realized they require a lot care and attention. So after doing some research and finding out what they need to eat, heat lamps, bedding, and such she was on track to taking better care of these little beauties. However, she still need a safe place for them to be, to play, and to grow.

Because all sentient beings needs a safe and secure home, I decided I would build them one. So off I went on a sunny Sunday morning to HomeDepot to gather materials. Lumber, check! Fencing, check!, Screws, check! Bedding, check! Swimming pool, check! It was funny how these little guys would come over and see what I was doing as I was building their new home ... they were so open to what was going on, it was wonderful to see. Even Elsa came out to hang out with the little ducks ... was wayyy too cute. =)

There truly is something that goes beyond words when we reach out and help the ones around us, even these little ducks. I felt a sense of gratitude towards them for giving me this opportunity to share and give back in a way I was able to. Sometimes life can just seem overbearing and we don't know what we can do to change it or where we can start. But the truth is, you can make a difference! Whether big or small, each positive action makes a difference in this world ... even if it is just making a home for two small ducks.

So, thank you little ducks for giving me this opportunity to make a difference. =)


4283 4280 4281 4282

Helping a friend care for others manifests Gojo.
Helping sentient beings have a safe home manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



I have difficulties reading longer texts. So a dharma friend has put his energy to pointing out the essentials of a teaching I could not read otherwise.

It's like mashing potatoes for someone with a toothache - you help to nourish them the way they can.

Mashing potatoes manifests Gojo.


Gassho.

[Jakuden]

My practice manager/head technician had her second child yesterday. The hospital where she gave birth is an hour's drive West of us. Although we had to first go visit my daughter in the hospital, which is an hour North, in the spirit of LAH, I decided that there was no better antidote to the difficulties of this week than to go visit my co-worker afterwards and bring her a gift. What's a little driving to celebrate a new life vs. going home to mope and stress.
Gassho,
Jakuden
SatToday/LAH

[Mp]

My practice manager/head technician had her second child yesterday. The hospital where she gave birth is an hour's drive West of us. Although we had to first go visit my daughter in the hospital, which is an hour North, in the spirit of LAH, I decided that there was no better antidote to the difficulties of this week than to go visit my co-worker afterwards and bring her a gift. What's a little driving to celebrate a new life vs. going home to mope and stress.
Gassho,
Jakuden
SatToday/LAH
So true Jaluden. =)

Gassho
Shingen

SatToday/LAH

[Kyonin]

Hi all,

I have a little story to share. I was going to do it through Gojo-san, but the specifics of the story would've given away it was about me. So here it goes. :P

My and my girlfriend have a super small graphic design business and we focus our efforts in helping out people who usually wouldn't have money to pay for design services. Most of the time we work for free or in exchange of things. This comes nicely with my Buddhist practice because I often teach people how to sit zazen in exchange of them doing something for their community. This way I have been able to teach zazen to people in Venezuela, Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru or Colombia.

A couple months ago a friend of mine lost her job and her last shot was to open a little chocolate shop in her home. She needed a logo, a brochures and a flier. I offered help her with that, but I understood she didn't have money, so I was thinking on how not to charge her (sounds stupid, I know. But I do a lot of anti-capitalism stuff). Still my friend was willing to pay me whatever I asked.

That same afternoon a Mayan friend I have in South Mexico told me about the kids Citincabchén. This is a small forgotten Mayan town that has a lot of financial and humanitarian problems. A teacher decided to teach music to kids in order to keep them busy and far from crime, and to deliver some joy to the community. But the teacher doesn't have a dime so he was asking for donations either in used instruments or money.
4298

So the idea came natural. I offered help my friend with her design needs in exchange of her donating to the Mayan kids. She agreed, got her logo, and sent some money to the kids. Then I also sent some money to them.

I know whatever we sent won't buy all the instruments the kids need, but I'd like to think it was helpful.

Compassion connects people in ways that would not happen in everyday life.

Gassho,

Kyonin
Sat/LAH

[Jakuden]

Hi all,

I have a little story to share. I was going to do it through Gojo-san, but the specifics of the story would've given away it was about me. So here it goes. :P

My and my girlfriend have a super small graphic design business and we focus our efforts in helping out people who usually wouldn't have money to pay for design services. Most of the time we work for free or in exchange of things. This comes nicely with my Buddhist practice because I often teach people how to sit zazen in exchange of them doing something for their community. This way I have been able to teach zazen to people in Venezuela, Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru or Colombia.

A couple months ago a friend of mine lost her job and her last shot was to open a little chocolate shop in her home. She needed a logo, a brochures and a flier. I offered help her with that, but I understood she didn't have money, so I was thinking on how not to charge her (sounds stupid, I know. But I do a lot of anti-capitalism stuff). Still my friend was willing to pay me whatever I asked.

That same afternoon a Mayan friend I have in South Mexico told me about the kids Citincabchén. This is a small forgotten Mayan town that has a lot of financial and humanitarian problems. A teacher decided to teach music to kids in order to keep them busy and far from crime, and to deliver some joy to the community. But the teacher doesn't have a dime so he was asking for donations either in used instruments or money.
4298

So the idea came natural. I offered help my friend with her design needs in exchange of her donating to the Mayan kids. She agreed, got her logo, and sent some money to the kids. Then I also sent some money to them.

I know whatever we sent won't buy all the instruments the kids need, but I'd like to think it was helpful.

Compassion connects people in ways that would not happen in everyday life.

Gassho,

Kyonin
Sat/LAH

Wow that's wonderful Kyonin... deep bows for all you do.

Gassho,
Jakuden
SatToday/LAH

[Taiyo]

Compassion connects people in ways that would not happen in everyday life.


gassho2

Gassho,
Taiyō

SatToday/LAH

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



I was having trouble coming up with something I can do every day. I read an article about how bad eating beef is for the environment, so my LAH is to refrain from eating beef and pork. My ideal would be to eat vegan, but just cutting out beef and pork is more difficult than I thought it would be. It is a moment by moment choice.

Living the intention to help other beings by changing our behavior day by day and moment by moment manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Jakuden]

Sent flowers to my daughter's therapist today. She's been a lifesaver.

Gassho,
Jakuden
SatToday/LAH

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



During my lunch break I like to take a little walk around the property where I work. I try and pick up trash not only on out property but also the property of neighboring businesses.


Working for the common good manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



I have become the official critter catcher for my neighbors. Twice this week I was called by two different neighbors to remove a snake from their property. I make it a point of letting the neighbor kids touch and look at the snake so hopefully, in the future, they will not automatically kill them. (I'm pretty sure it was the same snake so the second time I took it for a little drive in the country and let it go there.


Caring for all creatures great and small manifests Gojo.
Helping people connect with and respect our slithery brethren manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Jakuden]

"Slithery brethren" [emoji23][emoji120][emoji216]
Gassho
Jakuden
SatToday/LAH


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[RichardH]

Hi Jakuden. First of all I am sorry for not following up on this post earlier. Today I passed on your thanks for his bravery and example. Carl is not a crier, but he did tear up when he heard this. It means a lot to him. This was an incident that he did not share with his own family, because at the time it was disgraceful and shameful, and he had carried that shame all these years

thank you. He has diminished since the recording two weeks ago, but is still sitting up and talking.

Gassho
Daizan

Sat today/ LAH
Daizan

Just a note that Carl has passed away this evening.
Metta for all beings suffering in all worlds.

Gassho
Daizan

Sat today/LAH

[Jundo]

Peace to Carl and to all around him.

[Geika]

Gassho and metta, Daizan.

Sat today, lah

Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



Many folks toss pop and beer cans out the window while coming into town. When I go walking, I pick them up. It’s good for the environment plus, in my state, the pop and beer cans have a 5 cent refund. I could donate the money to another charity and get another LAH.


Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



Sometimes lending a hand walks up and slobbers you in the face. Someone showed up today with their dog because their dogsitter cancelled at the last minute. I instantly offered to watch him in my office. It's too hot with him to be on a truck all day.


Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



I had to call the cops today because some guy was being aggressive and trying to force a girl into his car. He drove off before the cops came, but we gave them all the information we had. The sad part was when the girl said, "don't call the cops, make them go away." She left before they arrived.

My heart is heavy knowing this probably isn't the first time, and most likely not the last time.


Gassho.

[Kyonin]

Hi guys,

I want to share a little story of community compassion. There is an elder man who is loved by the community. His name is Mr. Simon and he makes a living selling cooked ears of corn in his cart (elotes). They are very popular here. It's corn with cream, cheese and chili powder:

http://newyork.seriouseats.com/20100617elote2.JPG

He walks all over the streets selling his corn and earns just to live by for him and his wife. A couple weeks ago he got robbed and since the robbers couldn't take much money out of him, they took the cart. This left him with no way to make a living.

When a doctor realized Simon wasn't selling corn anymore, he went to his home and asked him. Simon told the story and the doctor begun organizing people to donate money to buy a new cart for Mr. Simon.

I helped spreading the word and donating with my sitting group and together we got the money to buy a new cart and a lot of other things that will make Mr. Simon and his wife lives easier.

Gassho to all who helped.

Kyonin

[Gojo]

When a doctor realized Simon wasn't selling corn anymore, he went to his home and asked him. Simon told the story and the doctor begun organizing people to donate money to buy a new cart for Mr. Simon.

I helped spreading the word and donating with my sitting group and together we got the money to buy a new cart and a lot of other things that will make Mr. Simon and his wife lives easier.


Recognizing that something might be wrong manifests Gojo.
Organizing to help another being manifests Gojo.

Metta to Mr. Simon, his family, the doctor, the community, Kyonin, the robbers, and to all beings.

Gassho.

[Jakuden]

Love your stories, Kyonin! They are so inspiring!

Mine today are smaller: donated to a client's walk for suicide prevention, and gave my daughter a driving lesson despite it being the end of a crazy Friday (oh how I want a cold brew now but I can't because of Zazenkai soon, lol)
Gassho
Jakuden
SatToday/LAH



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Sekishi]

"Today I'm going to make a difference."
http://www.lunarbaboon.com/comics/difference.html

Gassho,
Sekishi #sat #lah

[Jakuden]

Sometimes LAH is most difficult in ones own home. That moment I would have spoken in annoyance to my spouse about his cr*p getting out of control turned into, "would you like me to organize your paperwork for you?" Now I contemplate what I just signed myself up for...
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170704/b0904a01d0775fb87d004a66bc7c7faa.jpg
Gassho
Jakuden
SatToday/about to lend a ✋️


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Hoko]

I just posted this on Facebook but I wanted to share it here.
Tried to make someone's day a little better with some Zen-ish perspective:

So after my post about working out & pushing 50 I see my friend Tom and walked over to say hello. Tom is 90+ and has been lifting nearly every day that I've been coming to this particular gym which is about 12 years now. I asked if I could take a selfie with him and he politely declined stating that he "needed more time to get back in shape". I told him I thought he looked great but he said he just hasn't been the same since his stroke a few years ago. 😨 He said "it ain't what it used to be!" So I told him "maybe, but it also is how it still is and here you are working out. The way I see it you're giving 100% now like you gave 100% then so there's no difference." He smiled and I told him "you're my gym hero, man!" and meant it.
Nothing to gain, nothing to lose, no getting ahead, no falling behind, no better, no worse, no old, no young... Just this. Every day is a good day! Nichi nichi kore kōnichi. 🙏🙏🙏

The encounter seemed to make us both a little happier.

Gassho,
Hoko
#SatToday
LAH

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard.



Recently I was having a really bad day at work, I finally left to go to lunch because I just had to leave and clear my head. I pulled up to the hamburger joint, and noticed people I refer to as bell-ringers soliciting donations for UNICEF. They were a couple storefronts down.

Something made me walk over to them, and sign up for a donation. At the end, they were over the top thankful, I'm sure it is the script they are given. But I told them it was me who was thankful, I'm sure it isn't easy to stand outside a store and have people try to avoid you for hours hoping to get a donation.

I was also thankful because they put my day in perspective. I had challenges and obstacles that needed to be faced, but so does everyone. We just have to keeping moving forward as best we can.


Collecting alms is recommended by Buddhas of the past.
Giving alms manifests Gojo.
Recognizing the arising of aversion in the face of obstacles frees beings and manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Sekishi]

Tonight I was catching up on the news on Reddit and was feeling more and more down about all the crummy stories I was reading. My son walked by and said "Anything good going on?" I started to make a snarky remark, and then thought, "well of course there is somewhere - I'm just getting a limited perspective".

So I popped over the the /r/upliftingnews subreddit, and sure enough, there was an amazing story about hundreds of people in Brazil showing up with buckets and shovels (and eventually heavy earthmoving equipment) to rescue a beached Humpback whale earlier this week:
http://nationalpost.com/pmn/news-pmn/whale-beached-in-southeastern-brazil-returns-to-the-ocean

I did a quick search on Youtube, and of course there are videos:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHplKnfZVKg

Just listen to these joyous Bodhisattvas!:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yA_TImPBhDE

Deep bows,
Sekishi #sat

[Jakuden]

Yay! That's awesome! Thanks for the lift-up.
Gassho
Jakuden
SatToday/LAH


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard.



Recently while at my son's school playground, we noticed a lot of trash along the walkways and near the play structure. As school begins in less then a month, we quickly went home, returning with a large garbage bag to pick up the trash. I explained to my son (6) that we could also go do the same at another school or park. I asked him why we were doing this. He said because we need to help the community.


Making the world cleaner and safer manifests Gojo.
Teaching our children manifests Gojo.

Gassho.

[Sekishi]

A friend in our local Sangha has been facing some pretty serious health issues and is currently in a hospital across the state (4 hours away). Erin (my wife) and I were lucky enough to visit him this week. He wanted to know all about what was going on in our lives, and was full of good advice on some big changes we are looking at in the coming year.

The simple offering of our presence was returned 10-fold with deep listening and sage advice from a dear friend.

Last night I went over to his house to help his wife with a few little chores. At some point we went up to their practice room, chanted the Takkesage, put on our rakusus and sat for a half hour or so.

Two people in a darkened room, sitting in silence with all that arises. I simply do not know of a saner response to the ups and downs of this world.

Each and every being you meet - Buddha.

Gassho,
Sekishi #sat #lah

[Shokai]

_/\_

[Kyonin]

Thank you for the videos, Sekishi. Made me cry. A lot.

Gassho,

Kyonin
Sat/LAH

[Jakuden]

Yes thank you for these uplifting stories, they do make so much difference especially when all the headlines are so grim. Like Mr. Rogers said, "Look for the helpers!"

Gassho,
Jakuden
SatToday/LAH

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



I called the cops to go check on my dad. He was home alone and had sent a message that he fell off a ladder. After him not calling back for over an hour we decided to have someone check on him.

Much Metta to the poor office who drove out just to find him sleeping.


Caring for our families manifests Gojo.
Caring for our fellow citizens manifests Gojo.
Released from outcomes, right intention is the way.

Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



I'm not sure if this story is about compassion from me or too me, but probably both. The other night I stop to grab a hamburger for dinner. I was sitting at a table staring at my phone when an old woman walked up and asked if I was waiting for anyone. I said no, and she asked if she could sit down. Mind you, most of the tables were empty, so it was strange that she would decide to pick the seat with me.

She started to clean off the seat and got herself seated. I put down my phone and we started chatting. At first it was about her granddaughter and where she had been going today. Then it turned to life and happiness, taking good care of yourself and the importance of family.

We chatted for over an hour while we ate. I finally had to say goodbye because there were more errands to be run before it got dark. We said goodbye and wished each other a lovely evening. I didn't even get her name, nor her mine.

But the experience reminded me of the importance of just being open to people. Sometimes people just want someone to sit with so they aren't alone. And sometimes you don't realize how nice a conversation would be until you are in the middle of it.


How wonderful is the gift with no attachment or expectation in the giving or receiving - the pivot point of giver, receiver, and gift!

Gassho.

[Jika]

Thanks for these, Gojo.

Gassho,
Jika
#sattoday, lah

[Tairin]

http://www.treeleaf.org/forums/showthread.php?15139-Stories-of-Compassion-and-Kindness-GOJO-BODHISATTVA&p=206553&viewfull=1#post206553

Wonderful story. Thank you. gassho2

Gassho
Warren
Sat today

[Shoka]

I'll be honest, I have been rushing around a lot of lately. Too much work, not enough time..... the same old story.

As usual I was rushing to buy lunch and head right back to the office and eat at my desk. Just as I was reaching the parking lot an elderly woman waved me down. "Can you help me?" I figured she wanted to know where something was, and it would be a quick answer.

She proceeds to pull out a phone and says, "I just got this and I can't figure out how to make a call. Do you know how to work it?" For a moment I felt the "tick tick tick" feeling of time passing that I couldn't get back. But it was only a second before I just wanted to hug her and sit down and teach her how to use it. Unfortunately I didn't have the time for that much teaching, but I was able to show her how to turn it on, where the icon was for dialing the phone and helped her place the call she needed to.

At the end she said the most lovely thing to me,


You have blessed me
So may I bless you
May you blessed
no matter your needs

I smiled, wished her luck with the phone and a lovely afternoon.

Gassho,

Shoka
sattoday

[Jakuden]

I'll be honest, I have been rushing around a lot of lately. Too much work, not enough time..... the same old story.

As usual I was rushing to buy lunch and head right back to the office and eat at my desk. Just as I was reaching the parking lot an elderly woman waved me down. "Can you help me?" I figured she wanted to know where something was, and it would be a quick answer.

She proceeds to pull out a phone and says, "I just got this and I can't figure out how to make a call. Do you know how to work it?" For a moment I felt the "tick tick tick" feeling of time passing that I couldn't get back. But it was only a second before I just wanted to hug her and sit down and teach her how to use it. Unfortunately I didn't have the time for that much teaching, but I was able to show her how to turn it on, where the icon was for dialing the phone and helped her place the call she needed to.

At the end she said the most lovely thing to me,



I smiled, wished her luck with the phone and a lovely afternoon.

Gassho,

Shoka
sattoday

[emoji120]
Jakuden
SatToday/LAH


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Geika]

Aww! So sweet, Shoka.

Gassho, sat today, lah

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



I have undertaken to perform one act of service or generosity each day out of compassion for all. Today I paid for the hosting for a Buddhist monk who puts out a lot of teachings and helps to spread the Dharma to countless beings.


A great blessing: the opportunity to open the heart and listen -- and when knowing what another needs, to give accordingly!

Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



today i recieved my first erhu lesson from a boy of my age in a "quarter-life crisis"
i stumbled across his ad offerring to teach erhu online , it was pleasant and sincere.
in the ad he mentioned he was jobless ..like me. i immediately knew he was the right one.
i replied to his ad and we start chatting. this happened only yesterday.
he offered to come to my house after discussing to meet in some cafe and i offered to cook him lunch.

so thats what we did.
i cooked for him, he let his heart out and really confided in me. i did my best
listened and offerd advice and said i could meditate with him if he wanted to learn.
he did not charge me a single cent for the lesson, even though he drove to my place.


"May we with all beings realize the emptiness of the three wheels, giver, receiver, and gift."

Gassho.

[Jundo]

Thus have I heard:



"May we with all beings realize the emptiness of the three wheels, giver, receiver, and gift."

Gassho.

Just for reference, I am assuming that the "erhu" mentioned is a kind of Chinese violin that looks like this ...

https://i.pinimg.com/236x/40/dd/0c/40dd0cd692bdc83a9b1a970be36be1e5--sina-weibo-instruments.jpg

Lovely. It seems that this person made beautiful harmony ... in life, if not yet on the erhu! [monk]

Gassho, J

SatTodaylah

[taiyaki]

i believe so..
let's not forget the harmony with the neighbors too,
which comes in a more straightforward way- buying a mute for the erhu! :D


http://www.easonmusicstore.com/products/High-Quality-Erhu-Mute/239

gassho, ryk
sattodaylah



Just for reference, I am assuming that the "erhu" mentioned is a kind of Chinese violin that looks like this ...

https://i.pinimg.com/236x/40/dd/0c/40dd0cd692bdc83a9b1a970be36be1e5--sina-weibo-instruments.jpg

Lovely. It seems that this person made beautiful harmony ... in life, if not yet on the erhu! [monk]

Gassho, J

SatTodaylah

[Kokuu]

My son is 14 but quite shy. He was recently on holiday in Tenerife with his mother and two sisters (rather less shy!). After dinner each night they went for a walk and ate an ice cream (it was 30+ Celsius even at this time of year). One night there was a homeless man so he decided to donate his ice money to him instead of having the ie cream. He is learning Spanish at school so when the man said "Gracias" he was able to respond with "de nada" ("think nothing of it").

A small thing but hopefully a bodhisattva seed.

Gassho
Kokuu
-sattoday/lah-

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



Two kinds of nothing

Most people associate Depression with being down, unhappy or constantly tired.
I had none of those symptoms.
So it took a while to cotton on what is actually happening:
Having discovered Zen relatively recently, it was surprisingly easy to go with “Nothing is good, nothing is bad. Things just are.”
It made absolutely no difference to me whether I had long hair or shaved it off completely the next day, despite the reactions to shaved women in public. It made no difference whether there was music or not. Whether there was what others would call ‘noise’ or complete silence for long periods of time. Essentially, I thought “I’ve got this Zen thing figured out!”
There was absolutely nothing that upset me anymore - no road rage, no disappointment with work. I gave half my clothes away to charity, minimalising, letting go of attachment to things - easy done. Nothing a colleague could do or say to hurt me or lose my calm. But also: Zero joy. No interest in if or what I ate. I sat in the hot water in the tub on a cold winter day - something I used to LO.V.E. and felt - nothing.
Zen is not about feeling nothing at all. But to JOYFULLY accept what is. Or isn’t. So simple, but it was a major revelation for rookie me.

I have made an effort of creating a sense of joy when I meditate. To slightly raise the edges of my mouth to a relaxed smile. And I feel a physical difference in the quality of the meditation.

Meditation alone did not make the depression go away by the way. I think in many ways, had I been more upset about my reality I would have gotten help sooner. It took medication and patience. It took time off work and self love and self care. Meditation helps, but it is not a miracle cure.

Zen. What a journey. Two kinds of nothing. I suspect I haven’t discovered them all yet though... :)


When we are intimate with and nourished by myriad beings, the needle does not rest half-way between "joy" and "sadness", but points at least a little towards "joy". We can let the statues, paintings, and photos of Buddhas and ancestors guide us -- they often have a gentle smile!

Gassho.

[Mp]

On the first day of school and for the very first time at school, my buddy Jack needed someone to take him. So off we went to hangout in class, to play, and be present with the wonders of life.

Thank you Jack for asking me to come and hang out with you at school, it made me smile and a memory I will never forget. =)

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171119/5962dd0010f229646059c5733d6a1745.jpg

Gassho
Shingen

Sat/LAH

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



At a convenience store, the restroom had waste on the floor. I picked it up. Yes, they have janitors, and I could have told them but I did it to be mindful of my surroundings and having an opportunity for a moment of Samu.


A monk once asked Ummon, "What is the Buddha?" Ummon answered thus: "Waste on the restroom floor." (deliberate misquote of the Mumonkan, Case 21)

Gassho.

[Jakuden]

We were at a restaurant today for a Thanksgiving buffet. It was a very large, crowded banquet hall. My elderly mother in law got separated from us somehow when we went up to get food. As we were looking for her, she was escorted back to our table by one of the wait staff who, despite the crazy busy-ness, had spotted her alone, helped her get 2 plates full of everything she wanted and carried them back to our table for her. [emoji1][emoji106][emoji490]🥧
Gassho
Jakuden
SatToday/LAH




Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Gojo]

Testing to make sure the forum is back online correctly after Rohatsu...

Here is a story about a great white shark rescued and returned to the sea. https://lostcoastoutpost.com/2017/dec/7/video-adorably-vicious-baby-shark-washes-ashore-cl/

May all beings be free of suffering, that means apex predators too.

Gassho.

[Gojo]

A story that got caught in the SPAM filter (it is from a month ago)... Thus have I heard:



You don’t have to look very hard to find opportunities to lend a hand.

On Veteran’s Day I saw a gentleman approaching the checkout line at the hardware store as I approached as well. He had a Vietnam Veterans baseball cap on. I let him go ahead of me and I insisted on paying for his lightbulbs. He was very gracious. He tracked me down in the parking lot after our brief exchange and thanked me profusely. He said he didn’t have the words when we were standing at the register. I thanked him for his service and we went our separate ways.

As I was driving by a gas station recently, I noticed two young men walking down the road with a gas can. I pulled into the station as they began filling their gas can and I asked them if they needed a ride back to their car. They said yes and indicted their car was just down the road. It was over two miles away! I was so glad to save them that walk. They offered to pay me and I refused and said they could pay me back by helping someone else out as I helped them.

Walking into work yesterday I could hear the rock salt crunch under my feet as it melted the snow and ice from a recent storm. I looked down and noticed something small and brown crawling across the sidewalk. It was a woolly bear caterpillar and it would surely die if I left it alone. So, I stooped down, picked it up and placed it in a bush where it will hopefully make a home.

It’s not hard to lend a hand and it takes very little time.


When the heart is open, opportunities to help abound.

Gassho.

[Jakuden]

These stories make me happy [emoji4]
We had a little help-fest at my work tonight... one of my employees got home to a sick cat... she called my associate who was busy and called me, so I went and got my daughter from math, then came back to the hospital to see her kitty... one of my other assistants stayed to help, and then one of the technicians, on the phone, walked us through using the new lab equipment to do the bloodwork, while the cat’s owner’s friend went to get my daughter a veggie burger since she had no dinner. Lol! Kitty is stable, in his hospital cage in which he hopefully will volunteer an overnight urine sample, and everyone went home. It’s lovely when people all pull together to help an animal in need.
Gassho
Jakuden
SatToday/LAH


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



I gave some money to a mother with a upset child at the counter today, she could not afford the small chocolate he wanted. She thanked me, I thanked her and walked away.



The legendary "laughing Buddha" Hotei went about the world carrying a cloth sack filled with candy and fruit to give to children and others in need. It is said that at an advanced age he recited the following poem and disappeared from this realm:

"Maitreya, Maitreya
Everywhere.
Yet people do not
See him."

Together we make Maitreya Buddha manifest. See him!

Gassho.

[Geika]

Touching poem and act, thank you.

Gassho, sat today, lah

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



I realized that after all these years, I have somehow forgiven myself. I even like myself a little.


Joy can be found in letting go of attachments: both the desires for some alternate past and to some specific future outcome.

Gassho.

[Getchi]

Today I gave a woman a lift. In my area, that could easily end in tears.

But she was desperate.

I drove her to her sons bday party. We talked, and she promised to try harder and keep in touch with jnr. I told her ind help either way.

She thanked me for the lack of desire. I cried a little and told her she was a good mum. My area is poor, and big drug prob.


I believe her. I metta for All.



Gassho.

[Gojo]

Thus have I heard:



Last spring Fiona Presly, a library assistant from Inverness, Scottish Highlands came across a surprising phenomenon she would never forget. While taking care of her garden she spotted a bumblebee queen crawling around. What surprised her the most was that the animal had no wings, as it turns out the bumblebee may have suffered from a virus which had caused problems in wing development. The insect had very slim chances of survival but this kind-hearted woman came to the rescue.

Fiona created an enclosed mini garden for the helpless animal and treated her to some sugar water. Soon enough the beautiful friendship unfolded between them. Every time Fiona would stop by the garden her tiny new friend would emerge to greet her. The bee cuddled with the woman and seemed to light up when Fiona was holding the insect in her arms.

The earth bumblebees have an average lifespan of only 18 weeks but Presly was taking care of her new friend so well that she outlived her counterparts. Sadly, the friendship couldn’t last forever since the bee eventually passed away, leaving a beautiful memory to her rescuer.

https://www.boredpanda.com/woman-befriends-wingless-bumblebee-fiona-presly/


All beings tremble before danger, all fear death. [Dhammapada 54]

The nature of interdependence means that all beings have influence over all other beings. Every action impacts every other being and every other action. May each of us act with kindness and compassion.

Gassho.

[Jakuden]

I left my suitcase with my work briefcase and laptop on the LIRR (Long Island Railroad) tonight [emoji33]🤢. A helpful nearby police officer called the train, AND THE CONDUCTOR DROPPED IT OFF TO ME AN HOUR LATER AS THE TRAIN WAS GOING BACK TO NYC. All I could do was give them hugs and my gratitude, but I am doing double LAH duty for awhile to pay this one forward. ❤️[emoji120][emoji585]

Gassho
Jakuden
SatToday/experiencing major gratitude overflow!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Jundo]

A nice story in the news of people doing a good thing ....


Matthew said their neighbor was shaking when he told her they had found her safe.
When asked why they didn't keep the loot for themselves, Maria said, "It wasn't even a question. It wasn't ours."
"The reward is karma. Good karma." added Matthew.

https://us.cnn.com/2018/05/17/us/treasure-buried-backyard-trnd/index.html

The news is filled with such stories every day, but they get buried in all the news of nasty behavior.

Gassho, J

STLah

[Jundo]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6EcRo7iu1Hs

[Mitka]

https://www.facebook.com/TheAnimalBible.net/videos/1367263043376293/UzpfSTEwMDAyNTk4NTUyODEwNDoxMjUxOTU5MTgzNTY1OTI/?filters_rp_creation_time=%7B%22name%22%3A%22creat ion_time%22%2C%22args%22%3A%22%7B%5C%22start_month %5C%22%3A%5C%222018-05%5C%22%2C%5C%22end_month%5C%22%3A%5C%222018-05%5C%22%7D%22%7D

[Shoka]

A dog followed us home this morning

This morning on our early walk Terra and I found a dog. Usually I try to swoosh dogs to go home and see them run back into their yard. But this time he followed us.

Terra was pretty determined he was a good dog and needed help, so he came home with us. We walk early so most people aren't wake yet. The little guy didn't have a collar so into the house he came. Once it was arou d the time that people are up we went back out for a walk hopefully to find his family.

And we did! They were just heading out to look for him.

The annoyance of having him go bathroom in my house, washed away the moment the boy and him caught sight of each others.

Gassho,

Shoka
sat/LAHhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180602/c7dc42ce92ec403b486c266589b41f2b.jpg

Sent from my SM-G930P using Tapatalk

[Shinshi]

A dog followed us home this morning

This morning on our early walk Terra and I found a dog. Usually I try to swoosh dogs to go home and see them run back into their yard. But this time he followed us.

Terra was pretty determined he was a good dog and needed help, so he came home with us. We walk early so most people aren't wake yet. The little guy didn't have a collar so into the house he came. Once it was arou d the time that people are up we went back out for a walk hopefully to find his family.

And we did! They were just heading out to look for him.

The annoyance of having him go bathroom in my house, washed away the moment the boy and him caught sight of each others.

Gassho,

Shoka
sat/LAHhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180602/c7dc42ce92ec403b486c266589b41f2b.jpg

Sent from my SM-G930P using Tapatalk

Thank you for sharing and thank you for caring.

Gassho, Shinshi

SaT-LaH

[jlydon]

Just a quick note of gratitude. Making sure I do some kindness everyday is affecting me for the good. I used to be skeptical about forcing kindness, as if that would create insincerity or self-importance, but I guess we become what we practice. So thank you all for this practice.

Peace,

Joe
Sat today, lah

[Jundo]

Just a quick note of gratitude. Making sure I do some kindness everyday is affecting me for the good. I used to be skeptical about forcing kindness, as if that would create insincerity or self-importance, but I guess we become what we practice. So thank you all for this practice.

Peace,

Joe
Sat today, lah

gassho1 I think there is so much truth in this. We usually believe that "forced kindness" is not sincere somehow. But it is not quite so simple. We do good acts because we feel kind and charitable, but doing good acts also has a feedback effect to create the feeling and sincerity.

It is in Time Magazine, so must be true ...

Being Generous Really Does Make You Happier
http://time.com/4857777/generosity-happiness-brain/

Gassho, J

SatTodayLAH

[Shoka]

Hi everyone,

I just had an old colleague call me out of the blue. We probably haven't talked in over a year, but for some reason he decided to call. And it was so nice to just catch up and chat. I'm so glad he called, because it's nice to know after all this time that he still wanted to check and see how I'm doing.

But it also inspired me to call another friend who I haven't talked to in a long time. She didn't answer, so I left a message saying I was thinking about her, and hoped everything was well.

Sometimes a small action can lead to more action.

Gassho,

Shoka
sat+lah

[Seishin]

Thank you Shoka for bringing this thread to the fore again, I often forget about it being here.

As you say sometimes its the little things that count. With my wife's heart condition I've tended to take for granted the daily tasks I do to support her and look outside of that for LAH but those actions are the little lah in my signature.
Last week I took her shopping and sat in the car as usual with our GSD Sophie. Two women came out the shop, probably mother and daughter around 70 and 50ish. As they got in their car I heard that oh so sickening sound of a dead battery and and engine refusing to turn over. A year ago with my French I would not have the confidence to help but probably have done so all the same but I got out the car, explained I had starter cables and was able to help. Within a few minutes their expression of fear and worry had turned to smiles of gratitude and they were on there way. Doesn't take much to make the world a better place.

[Shokai]

gassho2[claps]

[Tairin]

As you say sometimes its the little things that count. With my wife's heart condition I've tended to take for granted the daily tasks I do to support her and look outside of that for LAH but those actions are the little lah in my signature.

Excellent point Seishin. Thank you. This actually came up in my Ango PPE#1 discussion with Meitou. It is easy to feel overwhelmed by the suffering in the world. It is easy to think that our efforts are but small drops of water in a very large bucket. But eventually with enough drops even the largest bucket will fill.

Metta to your wife and also to you for supporting her.

gassho2
Tairin
Sat today

[Seishin]

Excellent point Seishin. Thank you. This actually came up in my Ango PPE#1 discussion with Meitou. It is easy to feel overwhelmed by the suffering in the world. It is easy to think that our efforts are but small drops of water in a very large bucket. But eventually with enough drops even the largest bucket will fill.

Metta to your wife and also to you for supporting her.

gassho2
Tairin
Sat today

[monk]

[Jakuden]

Had two opportunities to LAH at work today in a row... took in a kitty whose owner was going to euthanize, I think he was not permitted to treat the cat’s diabetic condition by his fiancé... he was sobbing in grief and then it turned to gratitude when I asked if he wanted to sign the cat over. (Anyone want a totally awesome orange cat? I’m hoping he won’t be diabetic for long!)

Second was a poor lady who couldn’t catch her sick cat to bring it in. I Was able to listen to her currently difficult situation, and help her formulate a plan to get the kitty in. Also many tears of gratitude.

All of you are there with me lifting me up so I can help these folks, seriously. It’s a very real sense of paying it forward. Metta works!

Gassho
Jakuden
SatToday/LAH


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Seishin]

Had two opportunities to LAH at work today in a row... took in a kitty whose owner was going to euthanize, I think he was not permitted to treat the cat’s diabetic condition by his fiancé... he was sobbing in grief and then it turned to gratitude when I asked if he wanted to sign the cat over. (Anyone want a totally awesome orange cat? I’m hoping he won’t be diabetic for long!)

Second was a poor lady who couldn’t catch her sick cat to bring it in. I Was able to listen to her currently difficult situation, and help her formulate a plan to get the kitty in. Also many tears of gratitude.

All of you are there with me lifting me up so I can help these folks, seriously. It’s a very real sense of paying it forward. Metta works!

Gassho
Jakuden
SatToday/LAH


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Deep bows [monk]

[Kyonin]

Hi all,

I have a little compassion story I want to share. Some of you may not know, but Treeleaf has a little sister sangha in Spanish called Grupo Zen Ryokan. There I do the best I can to teach people what little I know about our practice. We sit zazen, we gather every Sunday in the city and on line and the group is growing a little every week.

Yesterday a sangha member, Bere (she is a nurse), called me to tell me there was this gentleman who was suffering of mobility problems. His name is Bernardo. Diabetes took his health and a leg and is confined to a wheelchair. The problem is that he is very poor and had to rescue a wheelchair from the garbage and tried to repair it.

The chair was in really bad conditions. Instead of seat it had a plain wood board. Instead of feet rests, it had some rope and same for the back. The chair was killing his back and kidneys.

https://chocobuda.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/bernardo-help.jpg


Being a nurse, Bere knows how bad it gets for patients when a chair is in this bad shape. So we both started to gather resources to get Bernardo a new chair.

After sending my donation (as much as I could) I wrote a post on my blog and asked the sangha and readers for a little donation. Also posted on Twitter and Facebook.

A few minutes later Bere’s phone went crazy with all the money transfers alerts!

In just 2 hours we got the money to get a new chair. Not only that, but we got a little extra to get a better one!

We stopped taking donations and Bere went to buy the new chair. By the afternoon Bernardo was rolling on his brand new and comfortable wheelchair.

He and his family were in tears and couldn’t speak at all. They were just smiling and crying. Bere and me were too.

Here is Don Bernardo (Don means something like Venerable Elder) with his new wheels.


https://chocobuda.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/don-bernardo-2.jpg


And here he says: “Greetings to everyone who helped me and gave me this chair. Thank you. With all my heart thank you”.


https://youtu.be/IvjnTBp90l0


I wanted to share this because to me this is proof that Kanzeon is real. A thousand arms, a thousand beings helping each other without questions, without asking for anything in return.

Gassho,

Kyonin
Sat/LAH

[Jundo]

gassho1

[Shinshi]

Hi all,

I have a little compassion story I want to share. Some of you may not know, but Treeleaf has a little sister sangha in Spanish called Grupo Zen Ryokan. There I do the best I can to teach people what little I know about our practice. We sit zazen, we gather every Sunday in the city and on line and the group is growing a little every week.

Yesterday a sangha member, Bere (she is a nurse), called me to tell me there was this gentleman who was suffering of mobility problems. His name is Bernardo. Diabetes took his health and a leg and is confined to a wheelchair. The problem is that he is very poor and had to rescue a wheelchair from the garbage and tried to repair it.

The chair was in really bad conditions. Instead of seat it had a plain wood board. Instead of feet rests, it had some rope and same for the back. The chair was killing his back and kidneys.

https://chocobuda.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/bernardo-help.jpg


Being a nurse, Bere knows how bad it gets for patients when a chair is in this bad shape. So we both started to gather resources to get Bernardo a new chair.

After sending my donation (as much as I could) I wrote a post on my blog and asked the sangha and readers for a little donation. Also posted on Twitter and Facebook.

A few minutes later Bere’s phone went crazy with all the money transfers alerts!

In just 2 hours we got the money to get a new chair. Not only that, but we got a little extra to get a better one!

We stopped taking donations and Bere went to buy the new chair. By the afternoon Bernardo was rolling on his brand new and comfortable wheelchair.

He and his family were in tears and couldn’t speak at all. They were just smiling and crying. Bere and me were too.

Here is Don Bernardo (Don means something like Venerable Elder) with his new wheels.


https://chocobuda.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/don-bernardo-2.jpg


And here he says: “Greetings to everyone who helped me and gave me this chair. Thank you. With all my heart thank you”.


https://youtu.be/IvjnTBp90l0


I wanted to share this because to me this is proof that Kanzeon is real. A thousand arms, a thousand beings helping each other without questions, without asking for anything in return.

Gassho,

Kyonin
Sat/LAH

Thank you for sharing Kyonin. That is a wonderful story. Thanks too for all you do.

Gassho, Shinshi

SaT-LaH

[Jakuden]

[emoji120][emoji120][emoji120] Deep bows to Don Bernardo and all who helped him get his wheels! That’s just wonderful [emoji3590]
Gassho
Jakuden
SatToday/LAH


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Mp]

Lovely Kyonin. =)

Gassho
Shingen

Sat/LAH

[Shugen]

Deep Bows.

Shugen

Sattoday/LAH


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[Shoka]

Kyonin,

I think my favorite part of that story is that when Bere saw something that needed to be fixed. And although she couldn't fix it alone, reaching out allowed everyone to help and before you knew it there was a solution.

The thousands hands all reaching out together. So wonderful!

Gassho,

Shoka
sat+lah

[Geika]

You're all good people, Kyonin. Bodhisattva work.

Sat today, lah

[Shokai]

Kyonin;
That is wonderful. I just went through the process of selecting and getting a chair for Doreen. That is one good looking chair Don Bernardo has, congratulations'

gassho, Shokai
stlah

[Shoka]

Hey everyone,

Over the pass few weeks I have been trying to sell some old backpacking gear which I won't use anymore. I'm fairly lazy when it comes to selling used stuff because I just don't have the time to keep posting and replying to people. So I sort of gave up about a week or so ago. The gear was going to sit unused until I figured out somewhere it could go and be useful.

Today my sister messaged me a post from a women's hiking group. One of the members was looking at used gear and wanted people's opinions on what she had found and if it was worth the price. She stated that she really wanted to start backpacking because hiking and being outdoors is helping her recover from an abusive relationship, but new gear is very expensive and she is now a single mom.

I messaged right away to tell her I had gear and if it worked for her, she could have it. Ironically we both work in the same area... so in the huge area that is greater LA we are only miles apart everyday. Fingers crossed that the gear works for her.

The really important thing about this occurrence to me is the action my sister took. Had she not notified me of the post, I probably would have missed it because several hours from now it would have been buried by other things. You can't always do something yourself, but maybe you can reach out to someone else who can help.

Gassho,
Shoka
sat+lah

[Geika]

Happy accidents! There's a lot of them in life. Funny how things line up in improbable ways. I'm not superstitious, but sometimes it feels like the universe looks out for us sometimes. And even if it's coincidence, thank goodness it happens! I'm sure that lady is feeling quite lucky and cared for.

Well done.

Gassho

Sat today, lah

[Getchi]

For many years now, I have raised money for people who eed guide dogs and wheel chairs.
Also I have looked after a person who is (literally) going through Hell.
For this - I am thankful to Shyakyamuni Buddha for my opportunity to practice.

Thankyou !!!

-edit- this should be invisible, GoJu works in silence, and the noise. But I dont, it should be quiet!!!!!

[TyZa]

Helped coordinate a food and winter clothing/blankets campaign in my city. Cooked and served food to anyone who needed it. Afterwards, there were still leftovers, my friends and I packaged them up and my wife and I drove around to homeless "camps" in our city giving out hot meals, winter clothing, blankets, fruits, and drinks. We eventually made sure all the food was taken by anyone in need.

Anytime I do anything like that, I receive teaching in humility from others. More often that not, the people I'm helping are more concerned with getting food/clothing, not for them, but for someone else they know who needs it more than they do. The arms of Kannon can be felt in these moments when humans are being humans to each other and though I thought I was helping someone, they are in turn helping someone themselves. It's really emotional and a blessing to experience.

Gassho,
Tyler

SatToday

[Washin]

The arms of Kannon can be felt in these moments when humans are being humans to each other and though I thought I was helping someone, they are in turn helping someone themselves.
gassho2

Washin
st-lah

[TyZa]

Decided to start to clean up the trash that is in the field next to my apartment building. Still a lot more to go, but picked up six bags today.


6260

Gassho,
Tyler

SatToday

[Geika]

Wow, that's a lot so far! Good job, Tyler.

Gassho
Sat today, lah

[Washin]

Decided to start to clean up the trash that is in the field next to my apartment building. Still a lot more to go, but picked up six bags today.


20200105_160150 (1).jpg

Gassho,
Tyler

gassho1

Gassho
Washin
sattoday