Dear All,
In Zen, it is important to untangle from our complex thoughts, simplify views and hold opinions lightly. As one practice in doing so, I am requesting that our members try to limit their Forum comments to about, more or less, three (3) well-chosen and heartfelt sentences. The purpose is to cause people to consider what they really need to say, to keep it short, simplify and to honor the dropping of opinions and extra ideas.
That said, the request is not a "rule" or set in stone in any way:
- Anyone who feels that they need more than three lines to express themselves about some topic is totally free and welcome to do so (We simply ask that they try to note, "Sorry, needed more than three sentences here" or "Sorry, needed to run long" or the like at the end of their post). If you have something you really want to say and share, please say it!
- The request is not being made of newcomers, just arrived to Treeleaf Sangha, during the first few months of their being here.
- It will not apply to some sections of our Forum where a bit more discussion is welcome (e.g., our "No Words" Book Club, the Art & Poetry Circles, our Precept reflections during Jukai, the "Beginner's Place" for newcomers, and the like).
- It is okay to add some colons ";" and parenthesis ( ), but let's not go overboard.However, quotes don't count, so please quote the writings of others all you wish.
"More or less three" is fine, no need to be exact.
- It is just a request, with no kind of penalty or punishment attached in any way, and it will not be moderated. While it is purely voluntary, I am counting on the group spirit of Sangha members to lead them to join in voluntarily. I may offer privately a friendly reminder of the request from time to time to folks who seem to be heavy in thoughts.
- Folks who are neuro-diverse do not have to bother with this if it is a hardship for them, and should write as they need to write unless otherwise requested. It would be appreciated if, even so, a tiny "sorry, needed to run long" were placed at the end of long posts, the same as for everybody.
The reason for 3 is a bit arbitrary, but Buddhists traditionally like their "threes" ... like the Three Refuges (Buddha, Dharma, Sangha).
Thank you. This "Three Sacred Sentences" practice is an ongoing experiment in our Sangha as we see how it goes. Please give it a try!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
As well, we request that all postings have been written by you from your own heart, and not be AI generated. Thank you as well. An AI program summarizes very well why we request this:
AI usage in forums discussing Zen Buddhism may not be appropriate, for the following reasons:
1. Loss of Human Connection: Zen Buddhism emphasizes the importance of human interaction, genuine connections, and shared experiences in the process of spiritual growth. Using an AI to generate content may create a barrier to these genuine connections, as it lacks the ability to empathize or share personal experiences.
2. Limited Understanding of Zen: GPT-4's knowledge is based on the text it has been trained on, but Zen Buddhism is more than just words. The essence of Zen lies in the experiential understanding of its teachings, which an AI like GPT-4 cannot grasp or convey accurately.
3. Inability to Provide Personal Guidance: An essential aspect of Zen practice is the relationship between a student and a Zen master or teacher. GPT-4, being an AI, lacks the personal experience, intuition, and wisdom necessary to guide others on their spiritual journey, which can potentially lead to misunderstanding or misinterpretation of Zen teachings.
In conclusion, while GPT-4 is a remarkable technological achievement, its application in Zen Buddhism forums may hinder the genuine human connection, experiential understanding, and personal guidance that are vital to Zen practice. It is important to carefully consider the impact of AI on our spiritual journey and preserve the essence of Zen by prioritizing human interaction and mindfulness.
Gassho, Jundo
(Sorry, needed to run long in the above)
SatTodayLentAHand
