The nothing-specialness of this practice
Don't feel insecure that you don't go to a brick and mortar zendo every week to listen to a dharma talk. Don't worry that your practice is not sincere. You're here, and that intention makes you sincere about the Way.
In Zen we sometimes elaborate on the idea of nothing-special. Read whole books about it, even! But in a way, going to a center to take time out that's separate, pure, and holy, is glorifying specialness and uniqueness. Sitting in a holy place, with other spiritual people, fetishizes the unusual. Most of us will never be able to expend the time and effort it takes in our own lives to transform a monastery or practice center from novel and unique to mundane and everyday. Don't be disheartened!
I don't point it out to say that we should elevate the trash bins and the messy kids instead - I just call attention to it to remind myself that the real authenticity happens when you don't elevate anything above anything else.
You're here, this is your practice, and this is your home. Now drop your baggage at the door, turn around, and go back into the world. Your voice is needed.
Re: The nothing-specialness of this practice
Thank you for this reminder Shinkai.
Re: The nothing-specialness of this practice
Very nice Shinkai!
Gassho,
Ekai/Jodi
Re: The nothing-specialness of this practice
Quote:
I don't point it out to say that we should elevate the trash bins and the messy kids instead - I just call attention to it to remind myself that the real authenticity happens when you don't elevate anything above anything else.
Quote:
Don't feel insecure that you don't go to a brick and mortar zendo every week to listen to a dharma talk. Don't worry that your practice is not sincere. You're here, and that intention makes you sincere about the Way.
Shinkai,
One of the finest teachings on this forum so far.
Thank you.
Gassho
Taigu
Re: The nothing-specialness of this practice
My teacher hated the word ordinary as attached to Joko Beck s school.
I just love it.
And I am sure we both are on the same wave s length.
T.
Re: The nothing-specialness of this practice
Re: The nothing-specialness of this practice
Re: The nothing-specialness of this practice
This is great, Shinkai!
Thank you.
Re: The nothing-specialness of this practice
RE: The nothing-specialness of this practice
Thank you, Shinkai
_/_
Sent from my SGH-i917 using Board Express
Re: The nothing-specialness of this practice
Shinkai,
There is nothing special about our practice, and we must go out into the world. It begins with our actions, words, deeds.
Truly, Thank you for your words.
A deep bow,
Yugen
Re: The nothing-specialness of this practice
Thank you very very much.
Gassho
Risho
Re: The nothing-specialness of this practice
Well said. Thank you Shinkai. I needed to hear that.
Gassho,
Chris