tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29299437804253738262024-03-23T06:13:45.123-04:00Hotetsu's Zen Blog<i>Koans, comments, and verses, mostly</i>Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.comBlogger602125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-56064575473442102982022-11-16T01:00:00.016-05:002023-04-24T12:50:21.407-04:00Audio Files for PracticeYou'll need: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hzqT_SO-3wg7XzyGNNg0wMwleESLag-5/view"><i>Zen Sutras, Chants, and Songs</i></a>.<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/s421/BZ21.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="421" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/w270-h269/BZ21.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Below are links to audio files for your home sitting practice. The files provide musical opening and closing verses with which to sing along, 25 minutes of silence, and bells to signal beginning and end of Zazen. The "Morn" practice (which, of course, can be used at any time of day) also includes Dedication, a timed period for kinhin, and ends with 10 minutes of silence during which you recite Sutra Service for the week and then the Closing Verse. The "Eve" practice is more streamlined, without dedication, kinhin, or Sutra Service.<br /><br />
For the "Morn" Practice:
<ul><li>Before starting audio: Three bows to altar, get settled in seated posture; on your own, chant the appropriate Opening Verse from pp. 3-6 of <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hzqT_SO-3wg7XzyGNNg0wMwleESLag-5/view"><i>Zen Sutras, Chants, and Songs</i></a>.</li>
<li>Begin playing audio for "Morn" (click on the appropriate link below)</li>
<li>Along with the recording, sing Day-of-the-Week Opening Song (p. 38).</li>
<li>Chant along with Dedication on p. 2 of <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hzqT_SO-3wg7XzyGNNg0wMwleESLag-5/view"><i>Zen Sutras, Chants, and Songs</i></a>. Following Odd-Numbered Days on Mon, Wed, Fri; follow Even-Numbered Days on Sun, Tue, Thu. Bow during the words that follow, and whisper your dedications, then chant along with the Universal Dedication ("All Buddhas throughout space and time . . . ")</li>
<li>25-minutes of Zazen. Each "Morn" audio has 25 minutes of silence. Three bells sound at the beginning of Zazen and two bells when Zazen time is up.</li>
<li>Stand for Kinhin. Clappers will signal you the beginning and end of your 5-minute kinhin.</li>
<li>After Kinhin, take your seat, and read aloud the Sutra Service for this week (as indicated in <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hzqT_SO-3wg7XzyGNNg0wMwleESLag-5/view"><i>Zen Sutras, Chants, and Songs</i></a>. You can leave the audio going, as each "Morn" audio has 10 minutes of silence at the end.</li>
<li>After reciting the Sutra Service, continue with the appropriate Closing Verse from pp. 39-42 of <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hzqT_SO-3wg7XzyGNNg0wMwleESLag-5/view"><i>Zen Sutras, Chants, and Songs</i></a>.</li>
<li>When finished with the Sutra Service and Closing Verse, begin the audio for the Day-of-the-Week Closing Song (p. 38 for Mon-Fri; p. 42 for Sun).</li>
<li>Inkin bells at the end of the Closing Song will signal you to rise, give one bow to the altar, and then a bow to the (imagined) sangha.</li></ul>
For the "Eve" Practice:
<ul><li>Get settled in seated posture.</li>
<li>Begin audio for "Eve" (click on the appropriate link below)</li>
<li>Along with the recording, sing Day-of-the-Week Opening Song (p. 38).</li>
<li>25-minutes of Zazen. Each "Morn" audio has 25 minutes of silence. Three bells sound at the beginning of Zazen and two bells when Zazen time is up.</li>
<li>Sing along with the Day-of-the-Week Closing Song (p. 38 for Mon-Fri; p. 42 for Sun).</li>
<li>Inkin bells at the end of the Closing Song will signal you to rise, give one bow to the altar, and then a bow to the (imagined) sangha.</li></ul><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kCJSOCkXaoDmEZdxBa04QAkrZurIeTCg/view"><b>Mon</b> MORN</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LHtSV4YfrpelHZ-yWYyyZ7nOTLMYK4Ed/view"><b>Mon</b> CLOSING SONG<br /></a>
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1y-ndAwdh0aZK76CAK_oClOZBgto5F9h6/view"><b>Mon</b> EVE</a><br /><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/15hIvgZ84NFW_aCkBZXGBSv7J0yyuHbjE/view"><b>Tue</b> MORN</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1w36uyILsqvI5p0ZU5KElHxm4VVbLSF5a/view"><b>Tue</b> CLOSING SONG</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vTN3X4DrIfhMWTdkl3tL97aCYW02-AfO/view"><b>Tue</b> EVE</a><br /><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1cCS2x25sB_cJT1xwMkFO2O6a-Jk8R5cv/view"><b>Wed</b> MORN</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Iq7ev0svAABJDIcyNnZuplG2AMskjord/view"><b>Wed</b> CLOSING SONG</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wPZDIx94p_uInjdfIBazfCywbSHtrB6q/view"><b>Wed</b> EVE</a><br /><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qbzs2mhHo6DWe24bGRmFthBPlbZIH9rp/view"><b>Thu</b> MORN</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZEXyG10rzrLulj1_oMLsOnAel-hyrFIn/view"><b>Thu</b> CLOSING SONG</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xZ-lgRYMpAUfNC5crcjZ0-MaH3sPpWzG/view"><b>Thu</b> EVE</a><br /><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Mz8XKkjhbdZfunzjtfDxkEiUPI6ALSUM/view"><b>Fri</b> MORN</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OOAt0AratMWmsBtU5Wi5wxSBndeGTMho/view"><b>Fri</b> CLOSING SONG</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NpiX-8nIepq9iyqlM2U1343nYFoq4P8c/view"><b>Fri</b> EVE</a><br /><br />
On Sat, meet and practice with your sangha. If you sangha meets another day of the week, use the audio for that day on Sat.<br> OR: on Saturdays with an odd-numbered date, repeat the Fri audios; on Saturdays with an even-numbered date, repeat the Sun audios.<br><br>
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RkXjy5iWQsB7f4mLc3SLEO1zPHkBAtas/view"><b>Sun</b> MORN</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1et4pNrYevcdn1uIvyM1KOC2acM5rG64R/view"><b>Sun</b> CLOSING SONG</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Hyo4nJiQksaODxkvLTxWyCHR2n-MBVbr/view"><b>Sun</b> EVE</a><br /><br />
Directory for all Audio files (including Sutra Service recordings, should you want to also use them): <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">HERE</a>
Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-50636080246545451642022-10-15T13:28:00.022-04:002022-11-25T07:29:01.319-05:00Sitting-Group Transition<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEgQFyJH6E0JhIVpghfrKPQMbNQhRmXnSr5K1IDjrqMMlnqJvN6Ilb2nEYZfKltsMIBmnmw0F49wmcReMMxEcWblqQCeS0e6Y8kDhOyWQkIiRm3vStH6qOYOsYxoMS1lMA6U8M7vpntlA5JDt3x8AK1pJlRoZlvsFb-zCfpCAUCFS-cqSV0tTGJ3TPOA/s291/BZ01A.jpg" style="display: block; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" height="200" data-original-height="291" data-original-width="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEgQFyJH6E0JhIVpghfrKPQMbNQhRmXnSr5K1IDjrqMMlnqJvN6Ilb2nEYZfKltsMIBmnmw0F49wmcReMMxEcWblqQCeS0e6Y8kDhOyWQkIiRm3vStH6qOYOsYxoMS1lMA6U8M7vpntlA5JDt3x8AK1pJlRoZlvsFb-zCfpCAUCFS-cqSV0tTGJ3TPOA/s200/BZ01A.jpg"/></a></div>This blog site previously included news and announcements for a sitting group, "Boundless Way Zen of Westchester," led by Meredith Garmon. The members of that sitting group continue to gather to practice on Saturdays in Room 43 of Community UU Congregation (468 Rosedale Ave, White Plains, NY), led now by Seth Zuiho Segall. The group's name and affiliation have changed to <b>Pamsula Zen of Westchester</b>, affiliated with Rev. Daiken Nelson's Pamsula Zen Center in W. Harlem.<br><br>
The website for information about the group is now:<br>
<a href="https://www.pamsulazenwestchester.org/">Pamsula Zen of Westchester</a><br>
See also the Meetup page: <a href="https://www.meetup.com/pamsula-zen-of-westchester/events/289069566/">HERE</a>.<br />
For the website of Daiken Nelson's Pamsula Zen Center, see: <a href="http://pamsulazen.org">pamsulazen.org</a>.<br /><br />
The group continues to meet each Saturday morning, both in person and on Zoom.<br /><br />
<i>(Times: US Eastern)</i><br />
10:00 -- Opening, Readings, Zazen (25 mins), Kinhin (5 mins), Zazen (25 mins)<br />
11:00 -- Sutra Service<br />
11:15 -- Dharma Talk and Conversation<br />
12:00 -- Closing Readings<br /><br />
<b>IN PERSON</b><br />
Room 43<br />
Community UU Congregation<br />
468 Rosedale Ave<br />
White Plains, NY 10605<br /><br />
<b>ON ZOOM</b><br />
The new Zoom link is: <a href="https://zoom.us/j/3250329127">zoom.us/j/3250329127</a>.<br>
Passcode remains: 468468<br /><br>
Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-59216639627864835442022-08-09T01:00:00.000-04:002022-08-10T09:46:17.822-04:00Summer Week 8 & 9<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik_150sOkQ1QiM03bgd9NABQ1dPRiW_o97fVx1vNBWpcmARKDrtnrZF5fbAzvnStiqdZsAu4XmdL8qufieoXgPGnPY8zsOIRtDksxFnTfCXQx8gViiiSSVO21zOQBQX1vHU3U3B5O7nkHeDfCygL0_EZTkwlnhEIlZ6dE_lfEiA7-F8ZclzpOyRBIBSQ/s1100/BZ08new.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1100" data-original-width="1100" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik_150sOkQ1QiM03bgd9NABQ1dPRiW_o97fVx1vNBWpcmARKDrtnrZF5fbAzvnStiqdZsAu4XmdL8qufieoXgPGnPY8zsOIRtDksxFnTfCXQx8gViiiSSVO21zOQBQX1vHU3U3B5O7nkHeDfCygL0_EZTkwlnhEIlZ6dE_lfEiA7-F8ZclzpOyRBIBSQ/s200/BZ08new.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Boundless Way Zen Westchester<br />Meeting: Both in person and on Zoom.<br /><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: xx-large;">Sat Aug 13</b></div>
<br />Join the BoWZ Westchester Sangha on Saturday mornings:<br />
<i>(Times: US Eastern)</i><br />
9:45-10:00 -- Informal conversation<br />
10:00 -- Opening Dedication, Readings, Zazen, Kinhin, Zazen<br />
11:00 -- Sutra Service<br />
11:15 -- Dharma Talk and Conversation<br />
12:00 -- Closing Readings<br /><br />
<b>IN PERSON</b><br />
Room 43<br />
Community UU Congregation<br />
468 Rosedale Ave<br />
White Plains, NY 10605<br /><br />
<b>ON ZOOM</b><br />
<a href="https://zoom.us/j/2898507899">https://zoom.us/j/2898507899</a><br />
Audio Only: telephone 646-876-9923 & Enter Meeting ID: 289 850 7899<br />
<br />
<b>Passcode: 468468</b><br />
<br />
Sat Aug 13: Practice to be led by Meredith Hotetsu Garmon<br />
<br />
Zoom with Boundless Way Zen Temple in Worcester, MA at any of these times:<br />
Mon-Fri, 7:00-8:00<br />
Tue, Thu, Sun, 19:00-20:00<br />
Zoom link: <a href="https://zoom.us/j/6963933145?pwd=RmhUOENmZENsVzQ2Q1Z2K0JhbjdCdz09">CLICK HERE</a><br /><br />
<h2><b>Sutra Book</b></h2>
<i>Boundless Way Zen Westchester Sutra Book</i> (revised 2022 Jul): <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vahoOkrm8jTiYj7dmljOZNMQK_A41JVD/view">HERE</a>.<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/s421/BZ21.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="421" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/w270-h269/BZ21.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><h2><b>Home Practice</b></h2>
Audio files are available for your home sitting practice. Each file includes musical opening and closing verses with which to sing along, 25 minutes of silence, and bells to signal beginning and end of Zazen. The "Morn" practice (which, of course, can be used at any time of day) also includes Dedication, a timed period for kinhin, and gap for you to read the Sutra Service for the week before the closing verse. The "Eve" practice is more streamlined, without dedication, kinhin, or Sutra Service.<br /><br />
Before Starting Audio:
<ul><li>Three bows to altar</li>
<li>Get Settled in seated posture. On your own, chant the Opening Verse (see below for the Opening Verse for the week).</li>
<li>Turn on audio (click on the appropriate link below)</li></ul>
Along with the recording:
<ul><li>Sing day of the week Opening Verse (p. 38).</li>
<li>Chant along with Dedication on p. 2 (following Odd-Numbered Days on Mon, Wed, Fri; following Even-Numbered Days on Sun, Tue, Thu); bow during the words that follow, and whisper your dedications, then chant along with the Universal Dedication ("All Buddhas throughout space and time . . . ")</li>
<li>25-minutes of Zazen. The recording will ring two bells when the time is up.</li></ul>
If doing the "Eve" practice, audio then goes right into Conclusion; simply stay with the audio. If doing the "Morn" practice, continue with:
<ul><li>Stand for Kinhin. Clappers will signal you the beginning and end of your 5-minute kinhin.</li><li>After Kinhin, take your seat, and read aloud the Sutra Service for this week. You can leave the audio going, as it has a gap of silence of about 15 minutes -- long enough for you to complete the Sutra Service.</li><li>After the Sutra Service, continue with Closing Verse (see below for the Closing Verse for the week).</li><li>When finished with the Sutras (including Closing Verse) advance the audio to the 45:00 point for the Conclusion.</li></ul>
Conclusion:
<ul><li>Sing along with the Day-of-the-Week Closing Verse (p. 38).</li>
<li>Inkin bells at the end of the closing verse will signal you to rise, give one bow to the altar, and then a bow to the (imagined) sangha.</li></ul>
<b>Monday</b><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/12Q-gbvgIu_SmjJSqbaJnfjJmhCjnnDOy/view">MORN</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_YY7-6Dg1Y8a8SwBNrAZDIceRq4qO2Pt/view">EVE</a><br /><br />
<b>Tuesday</b><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tpOB--vDHLcLUy3ewDdGFyhYUGWTeeZy/view">MORN</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FLBHWUGDC5Vn0W1sQAcx4emSfl4M2OKW/view">EVE</a><br /><br />
<b>Wednesday</b><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gocNYXl4J_y1lvXCM7iptUDu2DqG_AyI/view">MORN</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/18InzlRURZIpeM1iG119RJk350ztlS9x4/view">EVE</a><br /><br />
<b>Thursday</b><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/117TcuKwp_sfQuXDviTCeEkaKTCAM7FfU/view">MORN</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1rnVQnKCnHGpRT-5WIWhEopDRb8FfwF0I/view">EVE</a><br /><br />
<b>Friday</b><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1oEGhRx1tf3uHazETmygLgAu8g676_DjY/view">MORN</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GjvWQPNGzjfKGrscoJtPpX7totI4oRXy/view">EVE</a><br /><br />
All BoWZ Westchester Audio files (including Sutra Service recordings): <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">HERE</a><br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcjdnsLW2oz5D0OWmao0X6HMpas1qXrvdRwrGY_cPIZiMChhQnmE6OPm0ufRjHP4ZAKStBqQw-zNNJP5FWBA__ddj4HUPn-wAhYTZVNFjGHx_4jtudL55nOv_nLL3Ej5ZPP73Ty9C89qU_meJgHeEs_6jH3LoWSlQBy74SapLo8vBax5S3F06hSmfmZQ/s1500/BZ15.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcjdnsLW2oz5D0OWmao0X6HMpas1qXrvdRwrGY_cPIZiMChhQnmE6OPm0ufRjHP4ZAKStBqQw-zNNJP5FWBA__ddj4HUPn-wAhYTZVNFjGHx_4jtudL55nOv_nLL3Ej5ZPP73Ty9C89qU_meJgHeEs_6jH3LoWSlQBy74SapLo8vBax5S3F06hSmfmZQ/s200/BZ15.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRh9QG9a555wphVKpwUIoHwZlvxQG-0m-WJCemgaRRD5wUTigzRcRbD_gT3qD9Qiwq8O8HUqoRABmAcVhDJkozIcKugvIvWZpuI4CFW4pqPCNLJ4kavIziJEZAEtfaMBudK49IqgUAAcbaUIGcjMB54LUyAr2gnMaZFhDD5Z9XcajxZWBIBxwt7qveFw/s640/BCR28.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRh9QG9a555wphVKpwUIoHwZlvxQG-0m-WJCemgaRRD5wUTigzRcRbD_gT3qD9Qiwq8O8HUqoRABmAcVhDJkozIcKugvIvWZpuI4CFW4pqPCNLJ4kavIziJEZAEtfaMBudK49IqgUAAcbaUIGcjMB54LUyAr2gnMaZFhDD5Z9XcajxZWBIBxwt7qveFw/s200/BCR28.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><h2><b>Summer Week 8:<br />Mon Aug 8 - Sun Aug 14</b></h2><br />
<h3><b>Reading</b></h3><i>The Essential Dogen</i>,<br />
"The Awakened Way," pp. 47-49.<br />
Reading Schedule <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">HERE</a><br /><br />
<h3><b>Koan</b></h3>"<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2016/07/jul-26-aug-1-bcr-28.html">What the Holy Ones Have Not Preached</a>" (Blue Cliff Record #28)<br /><br />
This week (Aug 8-14), recite each day, <b>Sutra Service 8.B.</b> (pp. 24-25).<br />
with Opening Verses, "6. The Five Remembrances" (p. 4) followed by the Day-of-the-Week Opening Verse (p. 38).<br />
and Closing Verses, "6. Your True Self is the World" (p. 40), followed by the Day-of-the-Week Closing Verse (p. 38).<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBwPAhcAUd90qn66vgchre8K-lWLLtqnlE0upWLVqTKu0e_UHkpec7M-cZsh8KCFgeAcvG7qfeomCwUucek6wyBTvzVsYq_X8pIiRQ5gqEqfueGSE78jyhSqzEvJKhPYmsdnBvIPhgOVLgnbUQ4QVqwdhqe-8nVrcVwm4qXrYJ7Dl97jQIDX2bx1s2Tg/s350/BZ09B.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="349" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBwPAhcAUd90qn66vgchre8K-lWLLtqnlE0upWLVqTKu0e_UHkpec7M-cZsh8KCFgeAcvG7qfeomCwUucek6wyBTvzVsYq_X8pIiRQ5gqEqfueGSE78jyhSqzEvJKhPYmsdnBvIPhgOVLgnbUQ4QVqwdhqe-8nVrcVwm4qXrYJ7Dl97jQIDX2bx1s2Tg/s200/BZ09B.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqITg1tfltIWzHXgs-N1D5aQ-hRQ7rZ63pHvKsUi4CVlEolyyeQXUIuwkqqxSp7iUv7bGhamzuQpThv-TOnpEhxtTUqTqGqUpokiJOacIOGHTLw-p-H7E1BWtldiLfS3oxJPQzk7Mu7_R4sAp5QJCbZGsyAqeiu2bFVfuLf6Q5_WQZeFIdPieXr_ex1w/s1270/2022-08-10%20%281%29.png" style="display: block; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" height="315" data-original-height="1270" data-original-width="804" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqITg1tfltIWzHXgs-N1D5aQ-hRQ7rZ63pHvKsUi4CVlEolyyeQXUIuwkqqxSp7iUv7bGhamzuQpThv-TOnpEhxtTUqTqGqUpokiJOacIOGHTLw-p-H7E1BWtldiLfS3oxJPQzk7Mu7_R4sAp5QJCbZGsyAqeiu2bFVfuLf6Q5_WQZeFIdPieXr_ex1w/s320/2022-08-10%20%281%29.png"/></a></div>
<h2><b>Summer Week 9:<br />Mon Aug 15 - Sun Aug 21</b></h2><br />
<h3><b>Reading</b></h3><i>The Essential Dogen</i>,<br />
"Enlightenment," pp. 50-55.<br />
Reading Schedule <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">HERE</a><br /><br />
<h3><b>Koan</b></h3>"<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2016/08/aug-2-8-gg-34.html">Knowing Is Not the Way</a>" (Gateless Gate #34)<br /><br />
This week (Aug 15-21), recite each day, <b>Sutra Service 9.B.</b> (pp. 27-29).<br />
with Opening Verses, "6. The Five Remembrances" (p. 4) followed by the Day-of-the-Week Opening Verse (p. 38).<br />
and Closing Verses, "6. Your True Self is the World" (p. 40), followed by the Day-of-the-Week Closing Verse (p. 38).<br /><br />
Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-9172636088321993092022-03-29T16:46:00.017-04:002022-05-18T10:18:02.460-04:00Spring Weeks 9 & 10<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTl2RSo3x6uEz_If3fpB9zv8IHTY3CGyUT2zzOcWiOZejFfVcCgN2dlOesqOxIX981mBYAsYZgbJ8GMmz9bEdGnCOz8XPiv5C-73LeCDoiOk70k19bjJJOQNEUzf7lQiJnaj9jWi4b32d2jOlqph1kZk487chxHm0aL6DqHoytY-L92-_MYmVkZ_aSKw/s369/BZ09A.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="369" data-original-width="369" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTl2RSo3x6uEz_If3fpB9zv8IHTY3CGyUT2zzOcWiOZejFfVcCgN2dlOesqOxIX981mBYAsYZgbJ8GMmz9bEdGnCOz8XPiv5C-73LeCDoiOk70k19bjJJOQNEUzf7lQiJnaj9jWi4b32d2jOlqph1kZk487chxHm0aL6DqHoytY-L92-_MYmVkZ_aSKw/s200/BZ09A.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Meeting BOTH in person AND on zoom.<br /><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: xx-large;">Sat May 21</b></div>
<br />Join the BoWZ-Westchester Sangha on Saturday mornings:<br />
<i>(Times: US Eastern)</i><br />
9:45-10:00 -- Informal conversation<br />
10:00 -- Opening Dedication, Readings, Zazen, Kinhin, Zazen<br />
11:00 -- Sutra Service<br />
11:15 -- Dharma Talk and Conversation<br />
12:00 -- Closing Readings<br /><br />
<b>IN PERSON</b><br />
Room 43 at<br />
Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation<br />
468 Rosedale Ave<br />
White Plains, NY<br /><br />
<b>ON ZOOM</b><br />
<a href="https://zoom.us/j/2898507899">https://zoom.us/j/2898507899</a><br />
Audio Only: telephone 646-876-9923 & Enter Meeting ID: 289 850 7899<br />
<br />
<b>Passcode: 468468</b><br />
<br />
Sat May 21: Practice to be led by Meredith Hotetsu Garmon<br />
<br />
Zoom with Boundless Way Zen Temple in Worcester, MA at any of these times:<br />
Mon-Fri, 7:00-8:00<br />
Tue, Thu, Sun, 19:00-20:00<br />
Zoom link: <a href="https://zoom.us/j/6963933145?pwd=RmhUOENmZENsVzQ2Q1Z2K0JhbjdCdz09">CLICK HERE</a><br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiRjbznF3EAQHjT1idfVPa0gwZwWGMwhG2VzZelzWy2wMFN7rxcsaNUxiJDEYd9dElLxmcWEP6OGQM5p0nxmwV7KHl-Yr0Ji4ukIb0f04o8DfWjA_m9ChCY9Iib2HLk8UA_bfr2-1Zl0aUa9y58WAHxM2J-ynMaSMe5iNmQydJ4vgMhDrv74VrRJQF3aQ=s500" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiRjbznF3EAQHjT1idfVPa0gwZwWGMwhG2VzZelzWy2wMFN7rxcsaNUxiJDEYd9dElLxmcWEP6OGQM5p0nxmwV7KHl-Yr0Ji4ukIb0f04o8DfWjA_m9ChCY9Iib2HLk8UA_bfr2-1Zl0aUa9y58WAHxM2J-ynMaSMe5iNmQydJ4vgMhDrv74VrRJQF3aQ=s200" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvqBdx41D7z9LH9btEESw8xJy4AWyqSVAnzGniY1oWPMpZZZIinHtfHWtFddkEhchZW05Yop_cbxxOzJ5JhYluR-SQ0hml1GnxfkVBejPRMk4vLMlAUWd6XYeJ03nTqMNP-EWCsiSdQR2DM52x7r043wPUkxplltMV3Y41ifljY_RGJsZvM1KlfyN9tQ/s565/BoWZ02.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="565" data-original-width="565" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvqBdx41D7z9LH9btEESw8xJy4AWyqSVAnzGniY1oWPMpZZZIinHtfHWtFddkEhchZW05Yop_cbxxOzJ5JhYluR-SQ0hml1GnxfkVBejPRMk4vLMlAUWd6XYeJ03nTqMNP-EWCsiSdQR2DM52x7r043wPUkxplltMV3Y41ifljY_RGJsZvM1KlfyN9tQ/s200/BoWZ02.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><h2><b>Spring Week 9:<br />Mon May 16 - Sun May 22</b></h2><br />
<h3><b>Reading</b></h3>Zenju Earthlyn Manuel, <i>The Way of Tenderness</i>,<br />
"There Are No Monsters," pp. 117-126.<br />
Reading Schedule <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">HERE</a><br /><br />
<h3><b>Koan</b></h3>"<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2016/04/apr-12-18-bcr-71.html">Wufeng's 'Shut Up'</a>" (Blue Cliff Record #71)<br /><br />
<h3><b>Sutras</b></h3>
<b>Opening Verse</b> for 3rd Fourweek (Mon May 16 - Sun Jun 12): "Coming and Going," p. 4.<br /><br />
<b>Sutra Service 9.A.</b>
<ul><li>"Fukanzazengi," p. 26.</li>
<li>"Raihai Tokuzui," p. 26.</li>
<li>"Shinjin Gakudo," p. 27.</li>
<li>"Kaiin Zanmai," p. 27.</li></ul>
<b>Closing Verse</b> for 3rd Fourweek (Mon May 16 - Sun Jun 12): "The Necessity of Great Doubt," p. 39.<br /><br />
To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">HERE</a>.<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHCCFuk0S75Nypmtx7n_gtxw7XrrBmKYCR2rwoAAk5GoZlNT7bpPg-LxxkxTYWeDhmHL0-uzJOjozDBWzGPksA9zf50iEdx4-ZsIKDApqCm_w9-Ry9eWWJFVteJzVzf5fEq_HJ6s1HeqBtwbnfiNPZBa5pG3yaipTpYexhOnKGx7WtqjpRadE_0twNCw/s543/BZ10A.jpg" style="display: block; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" width="200" data-original-height="543" data-original-width="543" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHCCFuk0S75Nypmtx7n_gtxw7XrrBmKYCR2rwoAAk5GoZlNT7bpPg-LxxkxTYWeDhmHL0-uzJOjozDBWzGPksA9zf50iEdx4-ZsIKDApqCm_w9-Ry9eWWJFVteJzVzf5fEq_HJ6s1HeqBtwbnfiNPZBa5pG3yaipTpYexhOnKGx7WtqjpRadE_0twNCw/s200/BZ10A.jpg"/></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1KYohT2ZvJw/WnpdxW9Ho5I/AAAAAAAAI8E/4ZlYcEEm-JcwzVPMLJl-K6dElYAxc0K0wCLcBGAs/s1600/02_06_ventriloquist.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="360" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1KYohT2ZvJw/WnpdxW9Ho5I/AAAAAAAAI8E/4ZlYcEEm-JcwzVPMLJl-K6dElYAxc0K0wCLcBGAs/s200/02_06_ventriloquist.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><h2><b>Spring Week 10:<br />Mon May 23 - Sun May 29</b></h2><br />
<h3><b>Reading</b></h3><i>The Essential Dogen</i>,<br />
"Aspiration and Search," pp. 3-7.<br />
Reading Schedule <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">HERE</a><br /><br />
<h3><b>Koan</b></h3>"<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2016/04/apr-19-26-bcr-72.html">Yunyan's 'Can You?'</a>" (Blue Cliff Record #72)<br /><br />
<h3><b>Sutras</b></h3>
<b>Opening Verse</b> for 3rd Fourweek (Mon May 16 - Sun Jun 12): "Coming and Going," p. 4.<br /><br />
<b>Sutra Service 10.</b>
<ul><li>"Heart Sutra," p. 11.</li>
<li>"Song of the Grass Roof Hermitage," p. 29.</li>
<li>"Torei's Bodhissatva's Vow," p. 29.</li></ul>
<b>Closing Verse</b> for 3rd Fourweek (Mon May 16 - Sun Jun 12): "The Necessity of Great Doubt," p. 39.<br /><br />
To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">HERE</a>.<br /><br />
<h2><b>Sutra Book</b></h2>
For printing (double-columned pages):<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vahoOkrm8jTiYj7dmljOZNMQK_A41JVD/view">CLICK HERE</a>. (Page references are to this double-column version.)<br /><br />
For reading on your computer screen (single-column pages):<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EqKp8HUKiH9JfeuSDtouqvTGvovAkRtc/view">CLICK HERE</a>.<br /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Home Practice</b></h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/s421/BZ21.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="421" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/w270-h269/BZ21.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Practicing every day, or nearly every day, is a crucial aspect of the Zen path. Other central aspects include <b>sangha</b> (meeting weekly or so to practice with a group), and <b>sesshin</b> (going on occasional week-end or week-long Zen retreats).<br /><br />Home practice ideally includes Zazen, study of zen text (or listening to a recording or podcast of a dharma talk), and chanting/reciting some of Zen's central texts.<br /><br />Recommended:<ul><li>Sitting supplies: A zabuton (mat) and either a zafu (round cushion, usually of kapok or buckwheat hulls), or a seiza bench (kneeling bench); or a chair that is your meditation chair</li><li>A dedicated space: A corner of a room that is used only for Zen practice, where your sitting supplies and a small altar reside</li><li>An altar: a small table with a Buddha statue and maybe an incense holder, candle, or sacred items.</li></ul>There are many ways to structure home practice. Here's one:
<ul>
<li>Light a candle, stick of incense, or both, on your altar.</li>
<li>Standing in front of altar, facing it, make three bows (prostrations or standing bows) to Buddha.</li>
<li>Recite "Gatha of Atonement" (odd-numbered dates) or "The Three Refuges" (even-numbered
dates);</li><li>Recite Dedication and Opening Verse (see Sutra Book)</li>
<li>Zazen (25 mins)</li>
<li>Recite the Sutra Service Readings for the week (see Sutra Book)</li>
<li>Dharma Study time: reading a dharma book or listening to a dharma talk recording (15-30 mins). (Check out "A Quarterly Study Plan" on the <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">Reading/Videos page</a>.)</li>
<li>Recite Closing Verses (see Sutra Book)</li></ul><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Additional Practice Opportunities</b></h2>
White Plains Zen Center:<br />
Tue evenings: 7:30 PM<br />
<a href="https://zoom.us/j/122286388">https://zoom.us/j/122286388</a><br />
<br />
Hudson River Zen Center:<br />
<a href="http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/">http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/</a><br />
<br />
Insight Meditation with Nina Nagy<br />
Mon evenings: 6 PM<br />
<a href="https://www.awakeabiding.com/">https://www.awakeabiding.com/</a>
Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-80642726530863671452022-03-01T05:00:00.000-05:002022-03-09T16:48:35.695-05:00Winter Week 11 & 12<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgNHuqzk6_MSrdWbzLktUtzKBKD3_jA7VOAvt256d8hmiPO7N4eziiHKbTZYQ72aKxRjMXx96FhU6cuXt8U6-dlQZK1fsKwr1dLiilkb_C5Kj4as7lRpFE6Sqi_Nl9N79KqWUYgS8m45F3qnTtnsqdYZi2O8pvUeJgRfrkywywZpsfueV04RBose8fA3Q=s481" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="481" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgNHuqzk6_MSrdWbzLktUtzKBKD3_jA7VOAvt256d8hmiPO7N4eziiHKbTZYQ72aKxRjMXx96FhU6cuXt8U6-dlQZK1fsKwr1dLiilkb_C5Kj4as7lRpFE6Sqi_Nl9N79KqWUYgS8m45F3qnTtnsqdYZi2O8pvUeJgRfrkywywZpsfueV04RBose8fA3Q=s200" width="200" /></a></div>Meeting BOTH in person AND on zoom.<br /><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: xx-large;">Sat Mar 5</b></div>
<br />Join the BoWZ-Westchester Sangha on Saturday mornings:<br />
<i>(Times: US Eastern)</i><br />
9:45-10:00 -- Informal conversation<br />
10:00 -- Opening Dedication, Readings, Zazen, Kinhin, Zazen<br />
11:00 -- Sutra Service<br />
11:15 -- Dharma Talk and Conversation<br />
12:00 -- Closing Readings<br /><br />
<b>IN PERSON</b> (only if you are fully vaccinated, please)<br />
Room 43 at<br />
Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation<br />
468 Rosedale Ave<br />
White Plains, NY<br /><br />
<b>ON ZOOM</b><br />
<a href="https://zoom.us/j/2898507899">https://zoom.us/j/2898507899</a><br />
Audio Only: telephone 646-876-9923 & Enter Meeting ID: 289 850 7899<br />
<br />
<b>Passcode: 468468</b><br />
<br />
Sat Mar 5: Practice to be led by Meredith Hotetsu Garmon<br />
<br />
Zoom with Boundless Way Zen Temple in Worcester, MA at any of these times:<br />
Mon-Fri, 7:00-8:00<br />
Tue, Thu, Sun, 19:00-20:00<br />
Zoom link: <a href="https://zoom.us/j/6963933145?pwd=RmhUOENmZENsVzQ2Q1Z2K0JhbjdCdz09">CLICK HERE</a><br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiRjbznF3EAQHjT1idfVPa0gwZwWGMwhG2VzZelzWy2wMFN7rxcsaNUxiJDEYd9dElLxmcWEP6OGQM5p0nxmwV7KHl-Yr0Ji4ukIb0f04o8DfWjA_m9ChCY9Iib2HLk8UA_bfr2-1Zl0aUa9y58WAHxM2J-ynMaSMe5iNmQydJ4vgMhDrv74VrRJQF3aQ=s500" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiRjbznF3EAQHjT1idfVPa0gwZwWGMwhG2VzZelzWy2wMFN7rxcsaNUxiJDEYd9dElLxmcWEP6OGQM5p0nxmwV7KHl-Yr0Ji4ukIb0f04o8DfWjA_m9ChCY9Iib2HLk8UA_bfr2-1Zl0aUa9y58WAHxM2J-ynMaSMe5iNmQydJ4vgMhDrv74VrRJQF3aQ=s200" width="200" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yj6zDhH4NCk/Vr6u_AdUAJI/AAAAAAAAHKg/uajfOSxTdq8/s1600/GG30.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yj6zDhH4NCk/Vr6u_AdUAJI/AAAAAAAAHKg/uajfOSxTdq8/s400/GG30.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><h2><b>Winter Week 11:<br />Feb 28 - Mar 6</b></h2><br />
<h3><b>Reading</b></h3>Zenju Earthlyn Manuel, <i>The Way of Tenderness</i>,<br />
"Tracking the Footprints of Invisible Monsters," part 2, pp. 24-33.<br />
Reading Schedule <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">HERE</a><br /><br />
<h3><b>Koan</b></h3>"<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2016/02/winter-week-7-i-have-heard-people-say-i.html">Mind Is Buddha</a>" (Gateless Gate 30)<br /><br />
<h3><b>Sutras</b></h3>
<b>Opening Verse</b> for 13th Fourweek (Mon Feb 21 - Sun Mar 20): "World of Dew and Compassion," p. 6.<br /><br />
<b>Sutra Service 11.B.</b>
<ul><li>"Prayer for Awakening," p. 31.</li>
<li>"Who Owns the Weather?" p. 31.</li>
<li>"Healing Situated in Love," p. 32.</li></ul>
<b>Closing Verse</b> for 13th Fourweek (Mon Feb 21 - Sun Mar 20): "To Change Every Moment," p. 42.<br /><br />
To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">HERE</a>.<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjOu8BcgrrWGnpl5T4ZMcb5qdhFbD0jgCk9yUM6Mhn5M0NOHqsZOfzHnt84Hz_efZehN_uBZDWP7v_pdgECBpHD-VhAeUlmUl-c1redbtBTe_Gup6z-xoJKquWwCHiHK1WB56n_43G9cbmz4YC9h8Bkmc81Dh9euIeUhTMKa6deshnyBeOME0K_WOnVYw=s540" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="540" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjOu8BcgrrWGnpl5T4ZMcb5qdhFbD0jgCk9yUM6Mhn5M0NOHqsZOfzHnt84Hz_efZehN_uBZDWP7v_pdgECBpHD-VhAeUlmUl-c1redbtBTe_Gup6z-xoJKquWwCHiHK1WB56n_43G9cbmz4YC9h8Bkmc81Dh9euIeUhTMKa6deshnyBeOME0K_WOnVYw=s200" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfda2kIfZcLWIVlpBb-wGExSo0fYL38iQpWefe5bDUBKG934KbXYin94QJadpwyIeItD-aBkpuCT97QQOj9R2nPwqGhViwQPdf_NLNvpkmbPrbAJ15Z_RKYiQlI9dxHEcoidZiEXB2yhvE/s1600/GG33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfda2kIfZcLWIVlpBb-wGExSo0fYL38iQpWefe5bDUBKG934KbXYin94QJadpwyIeItD-aBkpuCT97QQOj9R2nPwqGhViwQPdf_NLNvpkmbPrbAJ15Z_RKYiQlI9dxHEcoidZiEXB2yhvE/s320/GG33.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><h2><b>Winter Week 12:<br />Mar 7-13</b></h2><br />
<h3><b>Reading</b></h3>Zenju Earthlyn Manuel, <i>The Way of Tenderness</i>,<br />
"Multiplicity in Oneness," part 1, pp. 35-44.<br />
Reading Schedule <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">HERE</a><br /><br />
<h3><b>Koan</b></h3>"<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2016/02/winter-week-7-i-have-heard-people-say-i.html">No Mind, No Buddha</a>" (Gateless Gate 33)<br /><br />
<h3><b>Sutras</b></h3>
<b>Opening Verse</b> for 13th Fourweek (Mon Feb 21 - Sun Mar 20): "World of Dew and Compassion," p. 6.<br /><br />
<b>Sutra Service 12.B.</b>
<ul><li>"Suffusion with the Divine Abidings," p. 34.</li>
<li>"Secrets on Cultivating the Mind" p. 34.</li></ul>
<b>Closing Verse</b> for 13th Fourweek (Mon Feb 21 - Sun Mar 20): "To Change Every Moment," p. 42.<br /><br />
To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">HERE</a>.<br /><br />
<h2><b>Sutra Book</b></h2>
For printing (double-columned pages):<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vahoOkrm8jTiYj7dmljOZNMQK_A41JVD/view">CLICK HERE</a>. (Page references are to this double-column version.)<br /><br />
For reading on your computer screen (single-column pages):<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EqKp8HUKiH9JfeuSDtouqvTGvovAkRtc/view">CLICK HERE</a>.<br /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Home Practice</b></h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/s421/BZ21.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="421" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/w270-h269/BZ21.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Practicing every day, or nearly every day, is a crucial aspect of the Zen path. Other central aspects include <b>sangha</b> (meeting weekly or so to practice with a group), and <b>sesshin</b> (going on occasional week-end or week-long Zen retreats).<br /><br />Home practice ideally includes Zazen, study of zen text (or listening to a recording or podcast of a dharma talk), and chanting/reciting some of Zen's central texts.<br /><br />Recommended:<ul><li>Sitting supplies: A zabuton (mat) and either a zafu (round cushion, usually of kapok or buckwheat hulls), or a seiza bench (kneeling bench); or a chair that is your meditation chair</li><li>A dedicated space: A corner of a room that is used only for Zen practice, where your sitting supplies and a small altar reside</li><li>An altar: a small table with a Buddha statue and maybe an incense holder, candle, or sacred items.</li></ul>There are many ways to structure home practice. Here's one:
<ul>
<li>Light a candle, stick of incense, or both, on your altar.</li>
<li>Standing in front of altar, facing it, make three bows (prostrations or standing bows) to Buddha.</li>
<li>Recite "Gatha of Atonement" (odd-numbered dates) or "The Three Refuges" (even-numbered
dates);</li><li>Recite Dedication and Opening Verse (see Sutra Book)</li>
<li>Zazen (25 mins)</li>
<li>Recite the Sutra Service Readings for the week (see Sutra Book)</li>
<li>Dharma Study time: reading a dharma book or listening to a dharma talk recording (15-30 mins). (Check out "A Quarterly Study Plan" on the <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">Reading/Videos page</a>.)</li>
<li>Recite Closing Verses (see Sutra Book)</li></ul><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Additional Practice Opportunities</b></h2>
White Plains Zen Center:<br />
Tue evenings: 7:30 PM<br />
<a href="https://zoom.us/j/122286388">https://zoom.us/j/122286388</a><br />
<br />
Hudson River Zen Center:<br />
<a href="http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/">http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/</a><br />
<br />
Insight Meditation with Nina Nagy<br />
Mon evenings: 6 PM<br />
<a href="https://www.awakeabiding.com/">https://www.awakeabiding.com/</a>
Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-26427803698408769462021-12-13T13:17:00.000-05:002022-01-19T17:30:02.987-05:00Fall Week 13 <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUlOfdcqVNfzGTbTN-NDAIaoIfc2FzVqjN2jdBhIp_8KGjQiPiR71ZaDBQZl-ryPPD9FKotEOvM7ZhLabRmo3gww5xmjv4WtmOZC2vzHcUIdqt2kZ_MeDTASQeJZeBd_3Q3D9U6PRbkrGx/s293/BZ13A.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="293" data-original-width="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUlOfdcqVNfzGTbTN-NDAIaoIfc2FzVqjN2jdBhIp_8KGjQiPiR71ZaDBQZl-ryPPD9FKotEOvM7ZhLabRmo3gww5xmjv4WtmOZC2vzHcUIdqt2kZ_MeDTASQeJZeBd_3Q3D9U6PRbkrGx/s200/BZ13A.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Meeting BOTH in person AND on zoom.<br /><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: xx-large;">Sat Dec 18</b></div>
<br />Join the BoWZ-Westchester Sangha on Saturday mornings:<br />
<i>(Times: US Eastern)</i><br />
9:45-10:00 -- Informal conversation<br />
10:00 -- Opening Dedication, Readings, Zazen, Kinhin, Zazen<br />
11:00 -- Sutra Service<br />
11:15 -- Dharma Talk and Conversation<br />
12:00 -- Closing Readings<br /><br />
<b>IN PERSON</b> (only if you are fully vaccinated, please)<br />
Room 43 at<br />
Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation<br />
468 Rosedale Ave<br />
White Plains, NY<br /><br />
<b>ON ZOOM</b><br />
<a href="https://zoom.us/j/2898507899">https://zoom.us/j/2898507899</a><br />
Audio Only: telephone 646-876-9923 & Enter Meeting ID: 289 850 7899<br />
<br />
<b>Passcode: 468468</b><br />
<br />
Sat Dec 18: Practice to be led by Meredith Hotetsu Garmon and Seth Zuiho Segall<br />
<br />
Zoom with Boundless Way Zen Temple in Worcester, MA at any of these times:<br />
Mon-Fri, 7:00-8:00<br />
Tue, Thu, Sun, 19:00-20:00<br />
Zoom link: <a href="https://zoom.us/j/6963933145?pwd=RmhUOENmZENsVzQ2Q1Z2K0JhbjdCdz09">CLICK HERE</a><br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tOaZjLrsCHo/YIb9Y97iTvI/AAAAAAAAMaI/7DkqIX9HmPQJ2bH6mjFtRybJX4py1paEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s415/EndingPursuitHappiness.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="414" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tOaZjLrsCHo/YIb9Y97iTvI/AAAAAAAAMaI/7DkqIX9HmPQJ2bH6mjFtRybJX4py1paEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/EndingPursuitHappiness.jpg" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3Tbg93oP-v8/VyeB-aUdWmI/AAAAAAAAHcM/PkyAkWVXfUsEtHcdlTQkQsmkLV2SdsaCgCLcB/s1600/clownbath.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3Tbg93oP-v8/VyeB-aUdWmI/AAAAAAAAHcM/PkyAkWVXfUsEtHcdlTQkQsmkLV2SdsaCgCLcB/s320/clownbath.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><h2><b>Autumn Week 13:<br />Dec 13 - 19</b></h2><br />
<h3><b>Reading</b></h3>Barry Magid, <i>Ending the Pursuit of Happiness</i>,<br />
"The Meaning of Life," pp. 128-131.<br />
Reading Schedule <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">HERE</a><br /><br />
<h3><b>Koan</b></h3>"<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2015/10/oct-26-nov-1.html">Bodhisattvas in the Bath</a>" (Blue Cliff Record 78)<br /><br />
<h3><b>Sutras</b></h3>
<b>Opening Verse</b> for 10th Fourweek (Mon Nov 29 - Sun Dec 26): "Realizing the Zen Way," p. 5.<br /><br />
<b>Sutra Service 13.A.</b>
<ul><li>Heart Sutra, p. 11.</li>
<li>The Misunderstanding of Many Lifetimes, p. 35.</li>
<li>Self and Other the Same, p. 35.</li>
<li>Guidepost for the Hall of Pure Bliss, p. 36.</li></ul>
<b>Closing Verse</b> for 10th Fourweek (Mon Nov 29 - Sun Dec 26): "Awakening to Discouragement," p. 41.<br /><br />
To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">HERE</a>.<br /><br />
<h2><b>Winter Week 1:<br />Dec 20-26</b></h2>
<h3>OUR SATURDAY MORNING SIT IS CANCELLED FOR DEC 25.<br />
MERRY CHRISTMAS!<br /><br />
<b>Sutras</b></h3>
<b>Opening Verse</b> for 10th Fourweek (Mon Nov 29 - Sun Dec 26): "Realizing the Zen Way," p. 5.<br /><br />
<b>Sutra Service 1</b>
<ul><li>Precepts, p. 6.</li></ul>
<b>Closing Verse</b> for 10th Fourweek (Mon Nov 29 - Sun Dec 26): "Awakening to Discouragement," p. 41.<br /><br />
To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">HERE</a>.<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-psef_dFdAyI/YbZul7WnA6I/AAAAAAAAMww/eKm6QW4QQzkRkaJSTkLdhRSwXBW1gWuZwCNcBGAsYHQ/s962/BZ01B.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="962" data-original-width="962" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-psef_dFdAyI/YbZul7WnA6I/AAAAAAAAMww/eKm6QW4QQzkRkaJSTkLdhRSwXBW1gWuZwCNcBGAsYHQ/s200/BZ01B.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mMnjqpVzsb0/Vydfw-P9HPI/AAAAAAAAHaI/Z082N4-wHL8cAFmL1oWFufzcMBRCmxCagCLcB/s1600/GG23.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mMnjqpVzsb0/Vydfw-P9HPI/AAAAAAAAHaI/Z082N4-wHL8cAFmL1oWFufzcMBRCmxCagCLcB/s400/GG23.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><h2><b>Winter Week 2:<br />Dec 27 - Jan 2</b></h2><br />
<h3><b>Reading</b></h3>Barry Magid, <i>Ending the Pursuit of Happiness</i>,<br />
"Doing Nothing," pp. 133-136.<br />
Reading Schedule <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">HERE</a><br /><br />
<h3><b>Koan</b></h3>"<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2015/11/nov-30-dec-6-gg-23.html">Think Neither Good Nor Evil</a>" (Gateless Gate 23)<br /><br />
<h3><b>Sutras</b></h3>
<b>Opening Verse</b> for 11th Fourweek (Mon Dec 27 - Sun Jan 23): "The Fruit of the Bodhisattva Way," p. 6.<br /><br />
<b>Sutra Service 2.B.</b>
<ul><li>Liberation from All Obstructions, p. 8.</li>
<li>Xinxinming (prose), p. 9.</li></ul>
<b>Closing Verse</b> for 11th Fourweek (Mon Dec 27 - Sun Jan 23): "On Zen," p. 41.<br /><br />
To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">HERE</a>.<br /><br />
<h2><b>Sutra Book</b></h2>
For printing (double-columned pages):<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vahoOkrm8jTiYj7dmljOZNMQK_A41JVD/view">CLICK HERE</a>. (Page references are to this double-column version.)<br /><br />
For reading on your computer screen (single-column pages):<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EqKp8HUKiH9JfeuSDtouqvTGvovAkRtc/view">CLICK HERE</a>.<br /><br />
Chant Along with these Audio Files: <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">CLICK HERE</a>.<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Home Practice</b></h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/s421/BZ21.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="421" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/w270-h269/BZ21.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Practicing every day, or nearly every day, is a crucial aspect of the Zen path. Other central aspects include <b>sangha</b> (meeting weekly or so to practice with a group), and <b>sesshin</b> (going on occasional week-end or week-long Zen retreats).<br /><br />Home practice ideally includes Zazen, study of zen text (or listening to a recording or podcast of a dharma talk), and chanting/reciting some of Zen's central texts.<br /><br />Recommended:<ul><li>Sitting supplies: A zabuton (mat) and either a zafu (round cushion, usually of kapok or buckwheat hulls), or a seiza bench (kneeling bench); or a chair that is your meditation chair</li><li>A dedicated space: A corner of a room that is used only for Zen practice, where your sitting supplies and a small altar reside</li><li>An altar: a small table with a Buddha statue and maybe an incense holder, candle, or sacred items.</li></ul>There are many ways to structure home practice. Here's one:
<ul>
<li>Light a candle, stick of incense, or both, on your altar.</li>
<li>Standing in front of altar, facing it, make three bows (prostrations or standing bows) to Buddha.</li>
<li>Recite "Gatha of Atonement" (odd-numbered dates) or "The Three Refuges" (even-numbered
dates);</li><li>Recite Dedication and Opening Verse (see Sutra Book)</li>
<li>Zazen (25 mins)</li>
<li>Recite the Sutra Service Readings for the week (see Sutra Book)</li>
<li>Dharma Study time: reading a dharma book or listening to a dharma talk recording (15-30 mins). (Check out "A Quarterly Study Plan" on the <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">Reading/Videos page</a>.)</li>
<li>Recite Closing Verses (see Sutra Book)</li></ul><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Additional Practice Opportunities</b></h2>
White Plains Zen Center:<br />
Tue evenings: 7:30 PM<br />
<a href="https://zoom.us/j/122286388">https://zoom.us/j/122286388</a><br />
<br />
Hudson River Zen Center:<br />
<a href="http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/">http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/</a><br />
<br />
Insight Meditation with Nina Nagy<br />
Mon evenings: 6 PM<br />
<a href="https://www.awakeabiding.com/">https://www.awakeabiding.com/</a>
Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-15084162690861032112021-11-14T17:19:00.006-05:002021-11-15T14:36:29.521-05:00Fall Week 9 & 10<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n8c2eatDEno/YYxrl1aWSUI/AAAAAAAAMuc/HBeiSLOkIb0zSqTw5NlPzcXJQ3m75qIZACLcBGAsYHQ/s369/BZ09A.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="369" data-original-width="369" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n8c2eatDEno/YYxrl1aWSUI/AAAAAAAAMuc/HBeiSLOkIb0zSqTw5NlPzcXJQ3m75qIZACLcBGAsYHQ/s200/BZ09A.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Meeting BOTH in person AND on zoom.<br /><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: xx-large;">Sat Nov 20</b></div>
<br />Join the BoWZ-Westchester Sangha on Saturday mornings:<br />
<i>(Times: US Eastern)</i><br />
9:45-10:00 -- Informal conversation<br />
10:00 -- Opening Dedication, Readings, Zazen, Kinhin, Zazen<br />
11:00 -- Sutra Service<br />
11:15 -- Dharma Talk and Conversation<br />
12:00 -- Closing Readings<br /><br />
<b>IN PERSON</b> (only if you are fully vaccinated, please)<br />
Room 43 at<br />
Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation<br />
468 Rosedale Ave<br />
White Plains, NY<br /><br />
<b>ON ZOOM</b><br />
<a href="https://zoom.us/j/2898507899">https://zoom.us/j/2898507899</a><br />
Audio Only: telephone 646-876-9923 & Enter Meeting ID: 289 850 7899<br />
<br />
<b>Passcode: 468468</b><br />
<br />
Sat Nov 20: Practice to be led by Meredith Hotetsu Garmon and Seth Zuiho Segall<br />
<br />
Zoom with Boundless Way Zen Temple in Worcester, MA at any of these times:<br />
Mon-Fri, 7:00-8:00<br />
Tue, Thu, Sun, 19:00-20:00<br />
Zoom link: <a href="https://zoom.us/j/6963933145?pwd=RmhUOENmZENsVzQ2Q1Z2K0JhbjdCdz09">CLICK HERE</a><br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tOaZjLrsCHo/YIb9Y97iTvI/AAAAAAAAMaI/7DkqIX9HmPQJ2bH6mjFtRybJX4py1paEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s415/EndingPursuitHappiness.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="414" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tOaZjLrsCHo/YIb9Y97iTvI/AAAAAAAAMaI/7DkqIX9HmPQJ2bH6mjFtRybJX4py1paEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/EndingPursuitHappiness.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ1aiPAE4d8MdZ14j2DLYqyHjxC8u_pWfgNVQn33kohsdBlMG7vLoDbRvfhXmd4-58F_lSQjCLBSE-ZS8Mjqwv0eJPCIXwqmAFYxe4gifBqFLtaJ-U0nrE88YRNNyJEluSpFwrg7deQl3R/s1600/02_13_zen.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="598" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ1aiPAE4d8MdZ14j2DLYqyHjxC8u_pWfgNVQn33kohsdBlMG7vLoDbRvfhXmd4-58F_lSQjCLBSE-ZS8Mjqwv0eJPCIXwqmAFYxe4gifBqFLtaJ-U0nrE88YRNNyJEluSpFwrg7deQl3R/s200/02_13_zen.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><h2><b>Autumn Week 9:<br />Nov 15 - 21</b></h2><br />
<h3><b>Reading</b></h3>Barry Magid, <i>Ending the Pursuit of Happiness</i>,<br />
"If It Is Broke, Fix It," pp. 110-114.<br />
Reading Schedule <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">HERE</a><br /><br />
<h3><b>Koan</b></h3>"<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2015/11/nov-16-22.html">Bodhidharma Puts the Mind to Rest</a>" (Gateless Gate 41)<br /><br />
<h3><b>Sutras</b></h3>
<b>Opening Verse</b> for 9th Fourweek (Mon Nov 1 - Sun Nov 29): "The Entire Universe," p. 5.<br /><br />
<b>Sutra Service 9A</b>
<ul><li>Fukanzazengi, p. 26.</li>
<li>Raihai Tokuzui, p. 26.</li>
<li>Shinjin Gakudo, p. 27.</li>
<li>Kaiin Zanmai, p. 27.</li></ul>
<b>Closing Verse</b> for 9th Fourweek (Mon Nov 1 - Sun Nov 29): "Compassion Unbound," p. 41.<br /><br />
To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">HERE</a>.<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7AY7SgZMwRI/YZKxt7Q_BvI/AAAAAAAAMu8/MlKzw0HZ890QiMPT7bVz2xS1Pwo5iIH-ACLcBGAsYHQ/s543/BZ10A.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="543" data-original-width="543" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7AY7SgZMwRI/YZKxt7Q_BvI/AAAAAAAAMu8/MlKzw0HZ890QiMPT7bVz2xS1Pwo5iIH-ACLcBGAsYHQ/s200/BZ10A.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPBntnsr7kQwWxeW7BE7LeWKU-a2EjuHOBhTJrqTPJxryQJqIcmbb0ra9suBYJroceZflQGz_4lAlCT_-qe4TRbY9VQwR_m_ZiqBVCX-L9FgaVg1SiX1Dl0Wap0k_-1HxptBAv3tpFmxaM/s323/FuDashi.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="322" data-original-width="323" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPBntnsr7kQwWxeW7BE7LeWKU-a2EjuHOBhTJrqTPJxryQJqIcmbb0ra9suBYJroceZflQGz_4lAlCT_-qe4TRbY9VQwR_m_ZiqBVCX-L9FgaVg1SiX1Dl0Wap0k_-1HxptBAv3tpFmxaM/s200/FuDashi.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><h2><b>Autumn Week 10:<br />Nov 22 - 28</b></h2><br />
<h3><b>Reading</b></h3>Barry Magid, <i>Ending the Pursuit of Happiness</i>,<br />
"A Mother's Kiss," pp. 115-120.<br />
Reading Schedule <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">HERE</a><br /><br />
<h3><b>Koan</b></h3>"<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2015/11/nov-23-29.html">Great Master Fu Concludes His Lecture on the Sutra</a>" (Blue Cliff Record 67)<br /><br />
<h3><b>Sutras</b></h3>
<b>Opening Verse</b> for 9th Fourweek (Mon Nov 1 - Sun Nov 29): "The Entire Universe," p. 5.<br /><br />
<b>Sutra Service 10</b>
<ul><li>Heart Sutra, p. 11.</li>
<li>Song of the Grass Roof Hermitage, p. 29.</li>
<li>Torei's Bodhisattva's Vow, p. 29.</li></ul>
<b>Closing Verse</b> for 9th Fourweek (Mon Nov 1 - Sun Nov 29): "Compassion Unbound," p. 41.<br /><br />
To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">HERE</a>.<br /><br />
<h2><b>Sutra Book</b></h2>
For printing (double-columned pages):<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vahoOkrm8jTiYj7dmljOZNMQK_A41JVD/view">CLICK HERE</a>. (Page references are to this double-column version.)<br /><br />
For reading on your computer screen (single-column pages):<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EqKp8HUKiH9JfeuSDtouqvTGvovAkRtc/view">CLICK HERE</a>.<br /><br />
Chant Along with these Audio Files: <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">CLICK HERE</a>.<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Home Practice</b></h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/s421/BZ21.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="421" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/w270-h269/BZ21.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Practicing every day, or nearly every day, is a crucial aspect of the Zen path. Other central aspects include <b>sangha</b> (meeting weekly or so to practice with a group), and <b>sesshin</b> (going on occasional week-end or week-long Zen retreats).<br /><br />Home practice ideally includes Zazen, study of zen text (or listening to a recording or podcast of a dharma talk), and chanting/reciting some of Zen's central texts.<br /><br />Recommended:<ul><li>Sitting supplies: A zabuton (mat) and either a zafu (round cushion, usually of kapok or buckwheat hulls), or a seiza bench (kneeling bench); or a chair that is your meditation chair</li><li>A dedicated space: A corner of a room that is used only for Zen practice, where your sitting supplies and a small altar reside</li><li>An altar: a small table with a Buddha statue and maybe an incense holder, candle, or sacred items.</li></ul>There are many ways to structure home practice. Here's one:
<ul>
<li>Light a candle, stick of incense, or both, on your altar.</li>
<li>Standing in front of altar, facing it, make three bows (prostrations or standing bows) to Buddha.</li>
<li>Recite "Gatha of Atonement" (odd-numbered dates) or "The Three Refuges" (even-numbered
dates);</li><li>Recite Dedication and Opening Verse (see Sutra Book)</li>
<li>Zazen (25 mins)</li>
<li>Recite the Sutra Service Readings for the week (see Sutra Book)</li>
<li>Dharma Study time: reading a dharma book or listening to a dharma talk recording (15-30 mins). (Check out "A Quarterly Study Plan" on the <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">Reading/Videos page</a>.)</li>
<li>Recite Closing Verses (see Sutra Book)</li></ul><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Additional Practice Opportunities</b></h2>
White Plains Zen Center:<br />
Tue evenings: 7:30 PM<br />
<a href="https://zoom.us/j/122286388">https://zoom.us/j/122286388</a><br />
<br />
Hudson River Zen Center:<br />
<a href="http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/">http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/</a><br />
<br />
Insight Meditation with Nina Nagy<br />
Mon evenings: 6 PM<br />
<a href="https://www.awakeabiding.com/">https://www.awakeabiding.com/</a>
Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-26952383390863415702021-10-04T08:19:00.007-04:002021-10-20T19:10:23.391-04:00Fall Week 5 & 6<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLhklKvKG2cPQWzTrDBKNU9aYBoPrBxTS4PiCa_tq1mNS4YhmF73KsiVwQye9mInjGxUwfZ8wVJSyxxMGa5kWxMWVFvgCaU1JnOGuaUvfCCIcjVsVO5bWnimeJ6sH3oUfBLxd7H4JUnDEe/s160/BZ05A.jpg" style="display: block; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" width="200" data-original-height="160" data-original-width="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLhklKvKG2cPQWzTrDBKNU9aYBoPrBxTS4PiCa_tq1mNS4YhmF73KsiVwQye9mInjGxUwfZ8wVJSyxxMGa5kWxMWVFvgCaU1JnOGuaUvfCCIcjVsVO5bWnimeJ6sH3oUfBLxd7H4JUnDEe/s200/BZ05A.jpg"/></a></div>Meeting BOTH in person AND on zoom.<br /><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: xx-large;">Sat Oct 23</b></div>
<br />Join the BoWZ-Westchester Sangha on Saturday mornings:<br />
<i>(Times: US Eastern)</i><br />
9:45-10:00 -- Informal conversation<br />
10:00 -- Opening Dedication, Readings, Zazen, Kinhin, Zazen<br />
11:00 -- Sutra Service<br />
11:15 -- Dharma Talk and Conversation<br />
12:00 -- Closing Readings<br /><br />
<b>IN PERSON</b> (only if you are fully vaccinated, please)<br />
Room 43 at<br />
Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation<br />
468 Rosedale Ave<br />
White Plains, NY<br /><br />
<b>ON ZOOM</b><br />
<a href="https://zoom.us/j/2898507899">https://zoom.us/j/2898507899</a><br />
Audio Only: telephone 646-876-9923 & Enter Meeting ID: 289 850 7899<br />
<br />
<b>Passcode: 468468</b><br />
<br />
Sat Oct 16: Practice to be led by Meredith Hotetsu Garmon and Seth Zuiho Segall<br />
<br />
Zoom with Boundless Way Zen Temple in Worcester, MA at any of these times:<br />
Mon-Fri, 7:00-8:00<br />
Tue, Thu, Sun, 19:00-20:00<br />
Zoom link: <a href="https://zoom.us/j/6963933145?pwd=RmhUOENmZENsVzQ2Q1Z2K0JhbjdCdz09">CLICK HERE</a><br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tOaZjLrsCHo/YIb9Y97iTvI/AAAAAAAAMaI/7DkqIX9HmPQJ2bH6mjFtRybJX4py1paEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s415/EndingPursuitHappiness.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="414" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tOaZjLrsCHo/YIb9Y97iTvI/AAAAAAAAMaI/7DkqIX9HmPQJ2bH6mjFtRybJX4py1paEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/EndingPursuitHappiness.jpg" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rf62x_CalPI/W84SM88M4zI/AAAAAAAAKRk/M7kCfeLrLKwi5YcsqZS-JcKJyQQupY6ZQCLcBGAs/s1600/BCR84_Vimalakirti_debating_Manjusri.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="625" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rf62x_CalPI/W84SM88M4zI/AAAAAAAAKRk/M7kCfeLrLKwi5YcsqZS-JcKJyQQupY6ZQCLcBGAs/s200/BCR84_Vimalakirti_debating_Manjusri.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><h2><b>Autumn Week 5:<br />
Mon Oct 18 - Sun Oct 24</b></h2><br />
<h3><b>Reading</b></h3>Barry Magid, <i>Ending the Pursuit of Happiness</i>,<br />
"Asses and Horses," pp. 93-97.<br />
Reading Schedule <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">HERE</a><br /><br />
<h3><b>Koan</b></h3>"<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2015/10/oct-19-25.html">Vimalakirti's 'The Gate to the One and Only'</a>" (Blue Cliff Record 84; Book of Serenity 48)<br /><br />
<h3><b>Sutras</b></h3>
<b>Opening Verse</b> for 8th Fourweek (Mon Oct 4 - Sun Oct 31): "Menju -- Face-to-Face Transmission," p. 5.<br /><br />
<b>Sutra Service</b>
<ul><li>The Compassionate Heart of Wisdom, p. 16.</li>
<li>Harmony of Relative and Absolute, p. 17.</li>
<li>Song of Zazen, p. 17.</li></ul>
<b>Closing Verse</b> for 8th Fourweek (Mon Oct 4 - Sun Oct 31): "Hope in the Dark," p. 40.<br /><br />
To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">HERE</a>.<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3GA0vBNqw3s/YXChaSakrwI/AAAAAAAAMtU/ovYKOwiDHakPJPNOaTOxnZ8tfd6TTlFZwCLcBGAsYHQ/s119/BZ06.png" style="display: block; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" width="200" data-original-height="119" data-original-width="119" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3GA0vBNqw3s/YXChaSakrwI/AAAAAAAAMtU/ovYKOwiDHakPJPNOaTOxnZ8tfd6TTlFZwCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/BZ06.png"/></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7n0_ijmCWYM/W88SSc_xnNI/AAAAAAAAKRw/OOCTJOMT_N0VnkYhM9jCNw0rE4bKa2l-wCLcBGAs/s1600/BCR97.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="329" data-original-width="330" height="199" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7n0_ijmCWYM/W88SSc_xnNI/AAAAAAAAKRw/OOCTJOMT_N0VnkYhM9jCNw0rE4bKa2l-wCLcBGAs/s200/BCR97.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><h2><b>Autumn Week 6:<br />
Mon Oct 25 - Sun Oct 31</b></h2><br />
<h3><b>Reading</b></h3>Barry Magid, <i>Ending the Pursuit of Happiness</i>,<br />
"Thomas Merton in Love," pp. 97-102.<br />
Reading Schedule <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">HERE</a><br /><br />
<h3><b>Koan</b></h3>"<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2015/09/sat-oct-3.html">The Diamond Sutra's 'The Transgression is Wiped Out'</a>" (Blue Cliff Record 97, Book of Serenity 58)<br /><br />
<h3><b>Sutras</b></h3>
<b>Opening Verse</b> for 8th Fourweek (Mon Oct 4 - Sun Oct 31): "Menju -- Face-to-Face Transmission," p. 5.<br /><br />
<b>Sutra Service</b>
<ul><li>Eihei Koso Hotsuganmon, p. 18.</li>
<li>Mangala Sutta, p. 18.</li>
<li>Yongjia's Song of Realizing the Dao, p. 19.</li></ul>
<b>Closing Verse</b> for 8th Fourweek (Mon Oct 4 - Sun Oct 31): "Hope in the Dark," p. 40.<br /><br />
To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">HERE</a>.<br /><br />
<h2><b>Sutra Book</b></h2>
For printing (double-columned pages):<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vahoOkrm8jTiYj7dmljOZNMQK_A41JVD/view">CLICK HERE</a>. (Page references are to this double-column version.)<br /><br />
For reading on your computer screen (single-column pages):<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EqKp8HUKiH9JfeuSDtouqvTGvovAkRtc/view">CLICK HERE</a>.<br /><br />
Chant Along with these Audio Files: <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">CLICK HERE</a>.<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Home Practice</b></h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/s421/BZ21.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="421" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/w270-h269/BZ21.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Practicing every day, or nearly every day, is a crucial aspect of the Zen path. Other central aspects include <b>sangha</b> (meeting weekly or so to practice with a group), and <b>sesshin</b> (going on occasional week-end or week-long Zen retreats).<br /><br />Home practice ideally includes Zazen, study of zen text (or listening to a recording or podcast of a dharma talk), and chanting/reciting some of Zen's central texts.<br /><br />Recommended:<ul><li>Sitting supplies: A zabuton (mat) and either a zafu (round cushion, usually of kapok or buckwheat hulls), or a seiza bench (kneeling bench); or a chair that is your meditation chair</li><li>A dedicated space: A corner of a room that is used only for Zen practice, where your sitting supplies and a small altar reside</li><li>An altar: a small table with a Buddha statue and maybe an incense holder, candle, or sacred items.</li></ul>There are many ways to structure home practice. Here's one:
<ul>
<li>Light a candle, stick of incense, or both, on your altar.</li>
<li>Standing in front of altar, facing it, make three bows (prostrations or standing bows) to Buddha.</li>
<li>Recite "Gatha of Atonement" (odd-numbered dates) or "The Three Refuges" (even-numbered
dates);</li><li>Recite Dedication and Opening Verse (see Sutra Book)</li>
<li>Zazen (25 mins)</li>
<li>Recite the Sutra Service Readings for the week (see Sutra Book)</li>
<li>Dharma Study time: reading a dharma book or listening to a dharma talk recording (15-30 mins). (Check out "A Quarterly Study Plan" on the <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">Reading/Videos page</a>.)</li>
<li>Recite Closing Verses (see Sutra Book)</li></ul><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Additional Practice Opportunities</b></h2>
White Plains Zen Center:<br />
Tue evenings: 7:30 PM<br />
<a href="https://zoom.us/j/122286388">https://zoom.us/j/122286388</a><br />
<br />
Hudson River Zen Center:<br />
<a href="http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/">http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/</a><br />
<br />
Insight Meditation with Nina Nagy<br />
Mon evenings: 6 PM<br />
<a href="https://www.awakeabiding.com/">https://www.awakeabiding.com/</a>
Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-3694394272059118942021-09-06T06:00:00.013-04:002021-09-21T17:44:41.430-04:00Fall Week 1 & 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div><span style="font-size: medium;">Meeting BOTH in person AND on zoom.</span><br /><br /><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iJ6ciFVyrIA/YUE0ziAO7oI/AAAAAAAAMrc/yLVzFqvUJh84FyI0cY0eE4Bwo6QcwJqeACLcBGAsYHQ/s291/BZ01A.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="291" data-original-width="290" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iJ6ciFVyrIA/YUE0ziAO7oI/AAAAAAAAMrc/yLVzFqvUJh84FyI0cY0eE4Bwo6QcwJqeACLcBGAsYHQ/s200/BZ01A.jpg" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Sep 25</span></b></div><br />Join the BoWZ-Westchester Sangha on Saturday mornings:<br />
<i>(Times: US Eastern)</i><br />
9:45-10:00 -- Informal conversation<br />
10:00 -- Opening Dedication, Readings, Zazen, Kinhin, Zazen<br />
11:00 -- Sutra Service<br />
11:15 -- Dharma Talk and Conversation<br />
12:00 -- Closing Readings<br /><br />
<b>IN PERSON</b> (only if you are fully vaccinated, please)<br />
Room 43 at<br />
Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation<br />
468 Rosedale Ave<br />
White Plains, NY<br /><br />
<b>ON ZOOM</b><br />
<a href="https://zoom.us/j/2898507899">https://zoom.us/j/2898507899</a><br />
Audio Only: telephone 646-876-9923 & Enter Meeting ID: 289 850 7899<br />
<br />
<b>Passcode: 468468</b><br />
<br />
Sat Sep 25: Practice to be led by Meredith Hotetsu Garmon and Seth Zuiho Segall<br />
<br />
Zoom with Boundless Way Zen Temple in Worcester, MA at any of these times:<br />
Mon-Fri, 7:00-8:00<br />
Tue, Thu, Sun, 19:00-20:00<br />
Zoom link: <a href="https://zoom.us/j/6963933145?pwd=RmhUOENmZENsVzQ2Q1Z2K0JhbjdCdz09">CLICK HERE</a><br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tOaZjLrsCHo/YIb9Y97iTvI/AAAAAAAAMaI/7DkqIX9HmPQJ2bH6mjFtRybJX4py1paEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s415/EndingPursuitHappiness.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="414" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tOaZjLrsCHo/YIb9Y97iTvI/AAAAAAAAMaI/7DkqIX9HmPQJ2bH6mjFtRybJX4py1paEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/EndingPursuitHappiness.jpg" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x-gLo5GcGHw/Vp7t0dlKssI/AAAAAAAAHHw/DJpmHk3Aemc/s1600/GG32.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x-gLo5GcGHw/Vp7t0dlKssI/AAAAAAAAHHw/DJpmHk3Aemc/s400/GG32.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><h2><b>Autumn Week 1:<br />
Mon Sep 20 - Sun Sep 26</b></h2><br />
<h3><b>Reading</b></h3>Barry Magid, <i>Ending the Pursuit of Happiness</i>,<br />
"Spiritual versus Material," pp. 74-81.<br />
Reading Schedule <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">HERE</a><br /><br />
<h3><b>Koan</b></h3>"<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2015/06/sat-jun-20.html">A Non-Buddhist Questions Buddha</a>"<br /><br />
<h3><b>Sutras</b></h3>
<b>Dedication</b>: Ancestor Dedication ("Dedication 2"), pp. 2-3.<br /><br />
<b>Opening Verse</b> for 7th Fourweek (Mon Sep 6 - Sun Oct 3): "Clear Mind," p. 5.<br /><br />
<b>Sutra Service</b>
<ul><li>Precepts, p. 6.</li></ul>
<b>Closing Verse</b> for 7th Fourweek (Mon Sep 6 - Sun Oct 3): "There is No End," p. 40.<br><br>
To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">HERE</a>.<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lf9wp1qULpw/YUpQIsBaFhI/AAAAAAAAMr8/K7Cl1rYHGjUmnP8XvAHn05_i9v4Ic5qRwCLcBGAsYHQ/s432/BZ02A.png" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" width="200" data-original-height="431" data-original-width="432" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lf9wp1qULpw/YUpQIsBaFhI/AAAAAAAAMr8/K7Cl1rYHGjUmnP8XvAHn05_i9v4Ic5qRwCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/BZ02A.png"/></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kqVfIM2nLJE/Vp7vQ16w5vI/AAAAAAAAHH8/gpemhOmguOY/s1600/GG42.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kqVfIM2nLJE/Vp7vQ16w5vI/AAAAAAAAHH8/gpemhOmguOY/s400/GG42.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><h2><b>Autumn Week 2:<br />
Mon Sep 27 - Sun Oct 3</b></h2><br />
<h3><b>Reading</b></h3>Barry Magid, <i>Ending the Pursuit of Happiness</i>,<br />
"Sitting Long Becomes Tiring," pp. 81-83.<br />
Reading Schedule <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">HERE</a><br /><br />
<h3><b>Koan</b></h3>"<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2015/08/sat-aug-15.html">A Woman Comes Out of Samadhi</a>"<br /><br />
<h3><b>Sutras</b></h3>
<b>Opening Verse</b> for 7th Fourweek (Mon Sep 6 - Sun Oct 3): "Clear Mind," p. 5.<br /><br />
<b>Sutra Service</b>
<ul><li>Liberation from All Obstructions, p. 8.</li>
<li>Xinxinming (Rhythmic), p. 8</li></ul>
<b>Closing Verse</b> for 7th Fourweek (Mon Sep 6 - Sun Oct 3): "There is No End," p. 40.<br><br>
To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">HERE</a>.<br /><br />
<h2><b>Upcoming</b></h2>
<h3><b>Next Online Sesshin</b></h3><br />
Fri Oct 1, 19:00 through Mon Oct 4, 12:30<br /><br />
Online Practice periods include Zazen (seated meditation), kinhin (walking meditation), dharma talk, dharma dialogue, and dokusan (interview with teacher).<br /><br />
<u>Times of Online Practice</u>:<br />
Evening (19:00 - 20:30) -- Fri, Sat, Sun<br />
Early Morning (7:00 - 8:30) -- Sat, Sun, Mon<br />
Late Morning (10:30 - 12:30) -- Sat, Sun, Mon<br />
Afternoon (14:30 - 16:00) -- Sat, Sun<br />
<br />
See the flyer for this event <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/16bAWRqQqwE24_oEfS8n8ZRS8SOMgzcOf7m1huh2DiP4/preview">HERE</a>.<br />
To register, go <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScX0X5BXPCU5g9dppTaCcZV5m3sFTFCUkyyCqXoTW6kwuUoPg/viewform">HERE</a>.<br /><br />
<h2><b>Sutra Book</b></h2>
For printing (double-columned pages):<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vahoOkrm8jTiYj7dmljOZNMQK_A41JVD/view">CLICK HERE</a>. (Page references are to this double-column version.)<br /><br />
For reading on your computer screen (single-column pages):<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EqKp8HUKiH9JfeuSDtouqvTGvovAkRtc/view">CLICK HERE</a>.<br /><br />
Chant Along with these Audio Files: <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">CLICK HERE</a>.<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Home Practice</b></h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/s421/BZ21.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="421" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/w270-h269/BZ21.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Practicing every day, or nearly every day, is a crucial aspect of the Zen path. Other central aspects include <b>sangha</b> (meeting weekly or so to practice with a group), and <b>sesshin</b> (going on occasional week-end or week-long Zen retreats).<br /><br />Home practice ideally includes Zazen, study of zen text (or listening to a recording or podcast of a dharma talk), and chanting/reciting some of Zen's central texts.<br /><br />Recommended:<ul><li>Sitting supplies: A zabuton (mat) and either a zafu (round cushion, usually of kapok or buckwheat hulls), or a seiza bench (kneeling bench); or a chair that is your meditation chair</li><li>A dedicated space: A corner of a room that is used only for Zen practice, where your sitting supplies and a small altar reside</li><li>An altar: a small table with a Buddha statue and maybe an incense holder, candle, or sacred items.</li></ul>There are many ways to structure home practice. Here's one:
<ul>
<li>Light a candle, stick of incense, or both, on your altar.</li>
<li>Standing in front of altar, facing it, make three bows (prostrations or standing bows) to Buddha.</li>
<li>Recite "Gatha of Atonement" (odd-numbered dates) or "The Three Refuges" (even-numbered
dates);</li><li>Recite Dedication and Opening Verse (see Sutra Book)</li>
<li>Zazen (25 mins)</li>
<li>Recite the Sutra Service Readings for the week (see Sutra Book)</li>
<li>Dharma Study time: reading a dharma book or listening to a dharma talk recording (15-30 mins). (Check out "A Quarterly Study Plan" on the <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">Reading/Videos page</a>.)</li>
<li>Recite Closing Verses (see Sutra Book)</li></ul><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Additional Practice Opportunities</b></h2>
White Plains Zen Center:<br />
Tue evenings: 7:30 PM<br />
<a href="https://zoom.us/j/122286388">https://zoom.us/j/122286388</a><br />
<br />
Hudson River Zen Center:<br />
<a href="http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/">http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/</a><br />
<br />
Insight Meditation with Nina Nagy<br />
Mon evenings: 6 PM<br />
<a href="https://www.awakeabiding.com/">https://www.awakeabiding.com/</a>
Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-722671657152366662021-08-21T00:00:00.001-04:002021-08-23T13:20:32.072-04:00Summer Week 10 & 11<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tOaZjLrsCHo/YIb9Y97iTvI/AAAAAAAAMaI/7DkqIX9HmPQJ2bH6mjFtRybJX4py1paEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s415/EndingPursuitHappiness.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="414" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tOaZjLrsCHo/YIb9Y97iTvI/AAAAAAAAMaI/7DkqIX9HmPQJ2bH6mjFtRybJX4py1paEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/EndingPursuitHappiness.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Now meeting BOTH in person AND on zoom.</b></span><br /><br />
Join the BoWZ-Westchester Sangha on Saturday mornings:<br />
<i>(Times: US Eastern)</i><br />
9:45-10:00 -- Informal conversation<br />
10:00 -- Opening Dedication, Readings, Zazen, Kinhin, Zazen<br />
11:00 -- Sutra Service<br />
11:15 -- Dharma Talk and Conversation<br />
12:00 -- Closing Readings<br /><br />
<b>IN PERSON</b> (only if you are fully vaccinated, please)<br />
Room 43 at<br />
Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation<br />
468 Rosedale Ave<br />
White Plains, NY<br /><br />
<b>ON ZOOM</b><br />
<a href="https://zoom.us/j/2898507899">https://zoom.us/j/2898507899</a><br />
Audio Only: telephone 646-876-9923 & Enter Meeting ID: 289 850 7899<br />
<br />
<b>Passcode: 468468</b><br />
<br />
Sat Aug 28: Practice to be led by Meredith Hotetsu Garmon<br />
<br />
Zoom with Boundless Way Zen Temple in Worcester, MA at any of these times:<br />
Mon-Fri, 7-8am<br />
Tue, Thu, Sun, 7-8pm<br />
Zoom link: <a href="https://zoom.us/j/6963933145?pwd=RmhUOENmZENsVzQ2Q1Z2K0JhbjdCdz09">CLICK HERE</a><br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g0wiZfI5-bQ/YRf9M3cv5rI/AAAAAAAAMo0/MUTPU9HxGvkxPtjMFaK_WwBFcauVVzfxwCLcBGAsYHQ/s803/BZ10B.png" style="display: block; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" width="200" data-original-height="802" data-original-width="803" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g0wiZfI5-bQ/YRf9M3cv5rI/AAAAAAAAMo0/MUTPU9HxGvkxPtjMFaK_WwBFcauVVzfxwCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/BZ10B.png"/></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I-xotwowb0M/YRf8cJu7jqI/AAAAAAAAMos/s76iVlO78XE1EkyRtz0P5nuesSh_iv3nwCLcBGAsYHQ/s307/Raven182.png" style="display: block; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" width="200" data-original-height="307" data-original-width="307" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I-xotwowb0M/YRf8cJu7jqI/AAAAAAAAMos/s76iVlO78XE1EkyRtz0P5nuesSh_iv3nwCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/Raven182.png"/></a></div><h2><b>For Summer Week 10:<br />
Mon Aug 23 - Sun Aug 29</b></h2>
<h3><b>Reading</b></h3>for Sat Aug 28
<ul><li>Barry Magid, <i>Ending the Pursuit of Happiness</i>, "Rinzai's 'Buji' Zen," pp. 62-65.</li></ul>
Reading Schedule <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">HERE</a><br><br>
<h3><b>Raven Tale</b></h3>
<ul><li>"<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/07/raven-183-moving-on.html">Moving On</a>"</li></ul>
<h3><b>Sutras</b></h3>
<b>Dedication</b>
<ul><li>For odd-numbered days, begins with Gatha of Atonement, p. 2</li>
<li>For even-numbered days, begins with The Three Refuges, p. 2</li></ul>
<b>Opening Verse</b> for 6th Fourweek (Mon Aug 9 - Sun Sep 5)
<ul><li>Dedication of Merit, p. 4</li></ul>
<b>Sutra Service</b>
<ul><li>Heart Sutra, p. 11.</li>
<li>Shitou's Song of the Grass Roof Hermitage, p. 29.</li>
<li>Torei's Bodhisattva's Vow, p. 29.</li></ul>
<b>Closing Verse</b> for 6th Fourweek (Mon Aug 9 - Sun Sep 5)
<ul><li>Your True Self is the World, p. 40</li>
<li>Save All the Beings, p. 42</li></ul>To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">HERE</a>.<br><br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dkf20CfJKJw/YSFscJ8rJPI/AAAAAAAAMps/gMAlUzljdvotuGMoQ5QAS43Ux7kacnkjQCLcBGAsYHQ/s481/BZ11B.jpg" style="display: block; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" width="200" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="481" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dkf20CfJKJw/YSFscJ8rJPI/AAAAAAAAMps/gMAlUzljdvotuGMoQ5QAS43Ux7kacnkjQCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/BZ11B.jpg"/></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6Py9Xkrc6w/Vyd8VLiXX6I/AAAAAAAAHb8/cKMMkiPoN2Qe3KGdG2c5t2wcT63v5ExawCLcB/s1600/Sutra-Flower-Garland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6Py9Xkrc6w/Vyd8VLiXX6I/AAAAAAAAHb8/cKMMkiPoN2Qe3KGdG2c5t2wcT63v5ExawCLcB/s320/Sutra-Flower-Garland.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><h2><b>For Summer Week 11:<br />
Mon Aug 30 - Sun Sep 5</b></h2>
<h3><b>Reading</b></h3>for Sat Sep 4
<ul><li>Barry Magid, <i>Ending the Pursuit of Happiness</i>, "If This Was It," pp. 65-68.</li></ul>
Reading Schedule <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">HERE</a><br><br>
<h3><b>Koan</b></h3>
<ul><li>"<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2015/09/book-of-serenity-67.html">The Wisdom in the Flower Garland Sutra"</a></li></ul>
<h3><b>Sutras</b></h3>
<b>Dedication</b>
<ul><li>For odd-numbered days, begins with Gatha of Atonement, p. 2</li>
<li>For even-numbered days, begins with The Three Refuges, p. 2</li></ul>
<b>Opening Verse</b> for 7th Fourweek (Mon Sep 6 - Sun Oct 3)
<ul><li>Clear Mind, p. 5.</li></ul>
<b>Sutra Service</b>
<ul><li>Dahui's Prayer for Awakening, p. 31.</li>
<li>Who Own's the Weather? p. 31.</li>
<li>Kyodo's Healing Situated in Love, p. 32.</li></ul>
<b>Closing Verse</b> for 7th Fourweek (Mon Sep 6 - Sun Oct 3)
<ul><li>There is No End, p. 40.</li>
<li>The Four Bodhisattva Vows, p. 42</li></ul>To chant along with audio recording, find the recordings <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">HERE</a>.<br><br>
<h2><b>Sutra Book</b></h2>
For printing (double-columned pages):<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vahoOkrm8jTiYj7dmljOZNMQK_A41JVD/view">CLICK HERE</a>. (Page references are to this double-column version.)<br /><br />
For reading on your computer screen (single-column pages):<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EqKp8HUKiH9JfeuSDtouqvTGvovAkRtc/view">CLICK HERE</a>.<br /><br />
Chant Along with these Audio Files: <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">CLICK HERE</a>.<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Home Practice</b></h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/s421/BZ21.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="421" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/w270-h269/BZ21.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Practicing every day, or nearly every day, is a crucial aspect of the Zen path. Other central aspects include <b>sangha</b> (meeting weekly or so to practice with a group), and <b>sesshin</b> (going on occasional week-end or week-long Zen retreats).<br /><br />Home practice ideally includes Zazen, study of zen text (or listening to a recording or podcast of a dharma talk), and chanting/reciting some of Zen's central texts.<br /><br />Recommended:<ul><li>Sitting supplies: A zabuton (mat) and either a zafu (round cushion, usually of kapok or buckwheat hulls), or a seiza bench (kneeling bench); or a chair that is your meditation chair</li><li>A dedicated space: A corner of a room that is used only for Zen practice, where your sitting supplies and a small altar reside</li><li>An altar: a small table with a Buddha statue and maybe an incense holder, candle, or sacred items.</li></ul>There are many ways to structure home practice. Here's one:
<ul>
<li>Light a candle, stick of incense, or both, on your altar.</li>
<li>Standing in front of altar, facing it, make three bows (prostrations or standing bows) to Buddha.</li>
<li>Recite "Gatha of Atonement" (odd-numbered dates) or "The Three Refuges" (even-numbered
dates);</li><li>Recite Dedication and Opening Verse (see Sutra Book)</li>
<li>Zazen (25 mins)</li>
<li>Recite the Sutra Service Readings for the week (see Sutra Book)</li>
<li>Dharma Study time: reading a dharma book or listening to a dharma talk recording (15-30 mins). (Check out "A Quarterly Study Plan" on the <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">Reading/Videos page</a>.)</li>
<li>Recite Closing Verses (see Sutra Book)</li></ul><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Additional Practice Opportunities</b></h2>
White Plains Zen Center:<br />
Tue evenings: 7:30 PM<br />
<a href="https://zoom.us/j/122286388">https://zoom.us/j/122286388</a><br />
<br />
Hudson River Zen Center:<br />
<a href="http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/">http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/</a><br />
<br />
Insight Meditation with Nina Nagy<br />
Mon evenings: 6 PM<br />
<a href="https://www.awakeabiding.com/">https://www.awakeabiding.com/</a>
Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-25284053271793662762021-08-02T15:54:00.001-04:002021-08-19T20:01:14.165-04:00Raven 183: Moving On<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiko35FE3_RZIIwFD-oN-WHbE7M4kVagfFjUf-GWzNbB_1UwH5_H6aj-TwaqeMwKiO-2-3Ru36C90DIy4mfqdlMj0Shl8hBBHvoHNb6DWiiHu0oSCODumbTZB6BCDTrfuS403FVRUHck-qZ/s307/Raven182.png" style="display: block; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" width="200" data-original-height="307" data-original-width="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiko35FE3_RZIIwFD-oN-WHbE7M4kVagfFjUf-GWzNbB_1UwH5_H6aj-TwaqeMwKiO-2-3Ru36C90DIy4mfqdlMj0Shl8hBBHvoHNb6DWiiHu0oSCODumbTZB6BCDTrfuS403FVRUHck-qZ/s200/Raven182.png"/></a></div>183 of 183<br><br>
It's foolish to trust what isn't trustworthy. Chance you've got to take.<br><br>
<b>Case</b>
<blockquote>Raven took her perch on the Assembly Oak and addressed a special meeting of the Tallspruce community, saying, “It’s time for me to be moving on.”<br>
Porcupine asked, “Where will you be going?”<br>
Raven said, “Where cedar roots stand bare in the creek.”<br>
A hush fell over the circle. Grouse could be heard sniffling.<br>
At last Porcupine asked, “Do you have any last words for us?”<br>
Raven said, “Trust.”</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/07/raven-182-taking-over.html">PREVIOUS</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/raven-index.html">INDEX</a>
Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-22824763082137795872021-07-26T15:49:00.006-04:002021-08-19T19:59:01.687-04:00Raven 182: Taking Over<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7zOjMCwH_jo/YQR1-EE0JwI/AAAAAAAAMmc/chJ_aWc-4qQ3CzJz7ntnOGwgoaVsnPvbwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Raven183.JPG" style="display: block; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" width="200" data-original-height="2047" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7zOjMCwH_jo/YQR1-EE0JwI/AAAAAAAAMmc/chJ_aWc-4qQ3CzJz7ntnOGwgoaVsnPvbwCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/Raven183.JPG"/></a></div>182 of 183<br><br>
What kind of Zen do you teach, with your wiggling fingers and warm breath. What does your gait teach? Your smile, frown, shrug? You can make a guess, and even if there is some insight there, the Zen you teach will change.<br><br>
<blockquote>Raven called Porcupine for a private meeting. “It’ll soon be time for me to be moving on. Are you up for taking over?”<br>
Porcupine said, “It won’t be Raven Zen.”<br>
Raven asked, “What kind of Zen will it be?”<br>
Porcupine said, “Don’t touch.”<br>
Raven said, “Exactly.”</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/07/raven-181-antepenultimate-foresters.html">PREVIOUS</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/07/raven-183-moving-on.html">NEXT</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/raven-index.html">INDEX</a>
Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-59938684563119247092021-07-19T15:43:00.006-04:002021-08-19T19:50:56.247-04:00Raven 181: Foresters<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hjOG5XQIjXI/YQR3D9YGzcI/AAAAAAAAMmk/V8FIrWYcPIUrUaUZv9vh4GhNiwKkSSrswCLcBGAsYHQ/s1800/Raven181.jpg" style="display: block; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" width="200" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hjOG5XQIjXI/YQR3D9YGzcI/AAAAAAAAMmk/V8FIrWYcPIUrUaUZv9vh4GhNiwKkSSrswCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/Raven181.jpg"/></a></div>181 of 183<br><br>
All things are impermanent, yes. Don't let this obscure from you that you exist now; you have done things, and loved, and perhaps, for a bit longer, will continue to. It will eternally be the case that you were in this place at this time. You might leave behind some impress or bone that fossilizes, or you might not. Doesn't matter. Whether anyone in the future knows anything of it or not, it will always be true that you were here on this day, felt what you felt and did what you did.<br><br>
<b>Case</b>
<blockquote>Owl spoke up the next evening and said, “I’ve been brooding about your remark to Mallard that the foresters are closing in. [<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/06/raven-175-weird.html">#175</a>] I think we aren’t facing things. It’s always been hard to find food and raise a family but now the forest is shrinking and folks like Wolverine can’t even find a mate.”<br>
Raven said, “Yes.”<br>
Owl said, “I feel despair about those foresters.”<br>
Woodpecker interrupted and said, “The problem is that they aren’t really foresters.”<br>
Raven said, “Yes.”<br>
Owl asked, “What can be done?”<br>
Raven did not respond, and the group was silent.<br>
Finally Porcupine said, “Their children will remember us.”<br>
Owl said, “Small comfort.”<br>
Raven said, “Brontosaur lives.”</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/07/raven-180-wise-counsel.html">PREVIOUS</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/07/raven-182-taking-over.html">NEXT</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/raven-index.html">INDEX</a>Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-1042106893197279062021-07-12T15:39:00.023-04:002021-08-09T10:51:20.569-04:00Raven 180: Wise Counsel<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zc5Obu25bsU/YQSFI09zLVI/AAAAAAAAMms/n3ujOeKM65UMmZpkWbLa5TyCVa1PqMsTACLcBGAsYHQ/s1108/Raven180.jpg" style="display: block; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" width="200" data-original-height="1108" data-original-width="1108" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zc5Obu25bsU/YQSFI09zLVI/AAAAAAAAMms/n3ujOeKM65UMmZpkWbLa5TyCVa1PqMsTACLcBGAsYHQ/s200/Raven180.jpg"/></a></div>180 of 183<br><br>
We remember "great ones of the past" for our own purposes, not for theirs. We do not understand their deeds, but rather imagine ourselves doing them.<br>
As for forgetting yourself: safety first!<br>
Reality is made of nothing but gratitude and compassion.<br><br>
<b>Case</b>
<blockquote>Mole continued pressing Raven. “How would you like to be remembered?”<br>
Raven said, “If you can forget yourself even once, then I can be forgotten.”<br>
Mole said, “I learned with my mother’s milk that if I forget myself even once, something will consume me.”<br>
Raven said, “Wise counsel. Wise counsel.”</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/07/raven-179-last-will-and-testament.html">PREVIOUS</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/07/raven-181-antepenultimate-foresters.html">NEXT</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/raven-index.html">INDEX</a>Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-2305053628277162652021-07-05T20:42:00.010-04:002021-07-31T16:30:07.438-04:00Raven 179: Last Will and Testament<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--wv-BXeLuP0/YQWtW2kQH0I/AAAAAAAAMnE/1miDQ9ZNZhAApFWcJBSwpXUn4Iq3PRtoACLcBGAsYHQ/s960/Raven179.jpeg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--wv-BXeLuP0/YQWtW2kQH0I/AAAAAAAAMnE/1miDQ9ZNZhAApFWcJBSwpXUn4Iq3PRtoACLcBGAsYHQ/s200/Raven179.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>179 of 183<br /><br />
Love what is. That's all. Love what is and everything that brought it to be. Then your legacy, your will and testament, last and first, will be entirely gratitude.<br /><br />
Grammar purveys delusions: common nouns, that categories are real; past conditional modal verbs ("could have been"), that something that is, isn't necessarily. Reality knows no such.<br /><br />
<b>Case</b>
<blockquote>Mole and Woodpecker came together to see Raven one afternoon.<br />
Mole said, "Woodpecker and I have been noticing that you're getting on in years, and wondering -- have you made your last will and testament?"<br />
Raven said, "Thank you."<br />
The three of them sat together silently for a while.<br />
Then Woodpecker asked, "Looking back, is there anything you would like to have done differently?"<br />
Raven said, "How could I?"<br />
Mole asked, "Each time you decided which way to go. Are you sorry about any of those decisions?"<br />
Raven said, "How could I?"</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/06/raven-178-zazen-for-young-ones.html">PREVIOUS</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/07/raven-180-wise-counsel.html">NEXT</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/raven-index.html">INDEX</a>Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-33809383897134426852021-06-28T17:00:00.015-04:002021-07-30T17:02:28.890-04:00Raven 178: Zazen for the Young Ones<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bHoSdFd_VcM/YNuUHrV9nRI/AAAAAAAAMig/A-H_PmkxAx0yO5h3NU-hG4zYvyXqLph-ACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Raven178.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2047" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bHoSdFd_VcM/YNuUHrV9nRI/AAAAAAAAMig/A-H_PmkxAx0yO5h3NU-hG4zYvyXqLph-ACLcBGAsYHQ/s200/Raven178.jpg" /></a></div>178 of 183
<blockquote><i>"Tomorrow, after my death, some men may decide to establish Fascism, and the others may be so cowardly or so slack as to let them do so. If so, Fascism will then be the truth of man, and so much the worse for us."</i> --Jean-Paul Sartre</blockquote>
Maybe no one's watching. Maybe you're not modeling anything for anyone. Maybe the Fascists take over, and your own child supports them. Even if no one is watching, that you bowed, that you practiced, that you sat and chanted and studied sutras, that you glimpsed your nature -- these will be eternal facts. They will be written in the book of reality, even if no one ever reads your page. Now, bow. Just bow in the knowledge that at that moment nothing else matters.<br><br>
<b>Case</b>
<blockquote>One evening Badger asked, "Do you encourage the young ones to do zazen?"<br />
Raven asked, "What happens when they see you sit down to practice?"<br />
Badger said, "They go out to play."<br />
Raven said, "Well?"<br />
Badger said, "Maybe I can do something now, and later they will remember and take up the practice."<br />
Raven said, "Bow."</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/06/177-confidence.html">PREVIOUS</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/07/raven-179-last-will-and-testament.html">NEXT</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/raven-index.html">INDEX</a>Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-69806793189002453842021-06-21T16:58:00.012-04:002021-07-08T20:17:24.599-04:00Raven 177: Confidence<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gz5A_vXOKko/YNuRUZviyiI/AAAAAAAAMiY/Jv4X2OPOxu49n1QryHpuCKTyzzLBuQ8nACLcBGAsYHQ/s1027/Raven177.JPG" style="display: block; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" width="200" data-original-height="1027" data-original-width="1027" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gz5A_vXOKko/YNuRUZviyiI/AAAAAAAAMiY/Jv4X2OPOxu49n1QryHpuCKTyzzLBuQ8nACLcBGAsYHQ/s200/Raven177.JPG"/></a></div>Zazen is the universal solvent. It's not that problems dissolve away in the sustained abiding in silence, but the problematicity of every problem dissolves.
<blockquote>Grouse came by one day for a private talk with Raven. She said, "My problem is that I have no confidence."<br>
Raven said, "Aren't you quieter these days?"<br>
Grouse said, "Yes. I guess I am."<br>
Raven said, "There you go."<br>
Grouse said, "I guess I can do it."<br>
Raven said, "It's total silence that removes all doubt."</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/06/176-memorial-service.html">PREVIOUS</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/06/raven-178-zazen-for-young-ones.html">NEXT</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/raven-index.html">INDEX</a>Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-30497524507255745062021-06-14T16:49:00.021-04:002021-06-29T17:33:10.639-04:00Raven 176: The Memorial Service<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIJaXtK4MK_Lk3-zOTzhRKXruLEF7JnmnooyyRRLsCGZqllyu4lEx4G-o5g6jYiUfITpzT8-WO7JvRUK-AuRYOw7_2zY4pxfPNlDWtdk3j8g-AbC01ZU8pDWQEfVOTC_9tNFIOccBlmkCv/s258/Raven176.png" style="display: block; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" height="200" data-original-height="258" data-original-width="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIJaXtK4MK_Lk3-zOTzhRKXruLEF7JnmnooyyRRLsCGZqllyu4lEx4G-o5g6jYiUfITpzT8-WO7JvRUK-AuRYOw7_2zY4pxfPNlDWtdk3j8g-AbC01ZU8pDWQEfVOTC_9tNFIOccBlmkCv/s200/Raven176.png"/></a></div>Death has to happen, and we have to mourn when it does. Do we need to blame? Sometimes it's functional. What about blaming (self or others) for blaming?<blockquote>Badger's little daughter Furry was caught by Cougar and eaten. The Badger family went into mourning, and the community held a memorial service. Folks came forward and offered flowers at the altar and spoke. Cougar did not attend.<br>
While folks were eating grubs and leavings after the service, Mole said to Badger, "I grieve at your loss, and I'm deeply upset with Cougar. To think that a member of our own community could do such a thing."<br>
Badger said, "He didn't know. And I eat baby mice, after all."<br>
Mole said, "Over at the Little Church in the Grotto they say the lion shall lie down with the lamb."<br>
Raven sighed and said, "The raven, too."<br>
Wolverine said, "I need my meat. I can't magine just eating grains and fruits like some of the birds around here."<br>
Raven said, "Bushes and grasses are even slower."</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/06/raven-175-weird.html">PREVIOUS</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/06/177-confidence.html">NEXT</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/raven-index.html">INDEX</a>
Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-78283521481424587972021-06-07T11:23:00.041-04:002021-06-29T17:20:12.540-04:00Raven 175: Weird<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LHwCj8sXp08/YMjMn_U0OSI/AAAAAAAAMfI/xcFPgL_hDmcYLSrCkso22A3j1Vmkvw9BQCLcBGAsYHQ/s382/Raven175.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="381" data-original-width="382" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LHwCj8sXp08/YMjMn_U0OSI/AAAAAAAAMfI/xcFPgL_hDmcYLSrCkso22A3j1Vmkvw9BQCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/Raven175.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Magpies -- and corvids generally, including ravens -- have a reputation for being attracted to shiny objects. It turns out that this reputation does not withstand empirical scrutiny. It isn't true.<br><br>
Humans, however, are attracted to shiny objects. Is there a connection between that weird obsession and the diminishment of the Earth (foresters closing in)? If so, what does that mean for your practice?<br /><br />
<b>Case</b><blockquote>Mallard flew in one evening and reported, "Miners keep coming to Beaverdam to wash for gold. I think that's a pretty weird activity."<br />
Raven said, "Magpies wouldn't think so."<br />
Mallard said, "Magpies are weird."<br />
Raven said, "The foresters are closing in, too."</blockquote><br />
<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/05/174-saved.html">PREVIOUS</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/06/176-memorial-service.html">NEXT</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/raven-index.html">INDEX</a>Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-81328775180655873562021-05-31T10:58:00.053-04:002021-06-20T08:26:05.121-04:00Raven 174: Saved<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JQr9RofqjSI/YMjCbovPDbI/AAAAAAAAMfA/Ma9pNi6Kw5Y2RMGiIlJX2NbdoTmXD3WyACLcBGAsYHQ/s600/Raven174.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JQr9RofqjSI/YMjCbovPDbI/AAAAAAAAMfA/Ma9pNi6Kw5Y2RMGiIlJX2NbdoTmXD3WyACLcBGAsYHQ/s200/Raven174.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>"Beings are numberless; I vow to save them." What does this vow mean if some beings don't want to be saved? What if you yourself are among those who don't want to be saved?<br /><br />
Among other things, perhaps it means that the saving might want to be...how to say this?...gentle. Not covert, exactly, but not heavy-handed. Certainly, we don't "save" beings by enticing them to join our zen group. Generally.<br /><br />
<b>Case</b><blockquote>Woodpecker said, "We don't have a very big membership -- not like Stag Sensei's group. Their place is so crowded with folks that they're talking about enlarging it. What can we do to attract more members?"<br />
Raven said, "The Blue Planet is only so big."<br />
Woodpecker asked, "But what about our vow to save everybody?"<br />
Raven said, "I don't want to be saved."</blockquote><br />
<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/05/raven-173-underlying-scheme.html">PREVIOUS</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/06/raven-175-weird.html">NEXT</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/raven-index.html">INDEX</a>Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-2436448558729736752021-05-24T10:39:00.003-04:002021-06-15T12:52:46.236-04:00Raven 173: The Underlying Scheme<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tTF6z0wEJEs/YMi8R2-SAyI/AAAAAAAAMew/Agbzdp3_RIgjwOKwd8JdwvROPFV6bQlPQCLcBGAsYHQ/s238/Raven173.png" style="display: block; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" width="200" data-original-height="238" data-original-width="238" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tTF6z0wEJEs/YMi8R2-SAyI/AAAAAAAAMew/Agbzdp3_RIgjwOKwd8JdwvROPFV6bQlPQCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/Raven173.png"/></a></div>Why is Porcupine putting his question in the mouth of a hypothetical "student"? Why doesn't he just ask the question?<br><br>
"Underlying scheme of things." Don't be silly. The scheme that underlies is the scheme that's right there on the surface. But tell me: is it the weather? Or is it idle chat about the weather?<br><br>
<b>Case</b><blockquote>Porcupine, conferring with Raven privately, asked, "What if a student asks about the underlying scheme of things -- how would you respond?"<br>
Raven said, "It's cooler tonight. It'll rain tomorrow."<br>
Porcupine said, "Sometimes it rains after a hot spell."<br>
Raven said, "We'll all take shelter with Mole and his family."</blockquote><br />
<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/06/raven-172-what-practice-teaches.html">PREVIOUS</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/05/174-saved.html">NEXT</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/raven-index.html">INDEX</a>Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-5666609264279591042021-05-18T11:41:00.018-04:002021-05-25T09:23:00.019-04:00Spring Week 10 & 11<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tOaZjLrsCHo/YIb9Y97iTvI/AAAAAAAAMaI/7DkqIX9HmPQJ2bH6mjFtRybJX4py1paEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s415/EndingPursuitHappiness.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="414" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tOaZjLrsCHo/YIb9Y97iTvI/AAAAAAAAMaI/7DkqIX9HmPQJ2bH6mjFtRybJX4py1paEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/EndingPursuitHappiness.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Now meeting BOTH in person AND on zoom.</b></span><br /><br />
Join the BoWZ-Westchester Sangha on Saturday mornings:<br />
<i>(Times: US Eastern)</i><br />
9:45-10:00 -- Informal conversation<br />
10:00 -- Opening Dedication, Readings, Zazen, Kinhin, Zazen<br />
11:00 -- Sutra Service<br />
11:15 -- Dharma Talk and Conversation<br />
12:00 -- Closing Readings<br /><br />
<b>IN PERSON</b> (only if you are fully vaccinated, please)<br />
Room 43 at<br />
Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation<br />
468 Rosedale Ave<br />
White Plains, NY<br /><br />
<b>ON ZOOM</b><br />
<a href="https://zoom.us/j/2898507899">https://zoom.us/j/2898507899</a><br />
Audio Only: telephone 646-876-9923 & Enter Meeting ID: 289 850 7899<br />
<br />
<b>Passcode: 468468</b><br />
<br />
Sat May 29: Practice to be led by Meredith Hotetsu Garmon<br />
<br />
Zoom with Boundless Way Zen Temple in Worcester, MA at any of these times:<br />
Mon-Fri, 7-8am<br />
Tue, Thu, Sun, 7-8pm<br />
Zoom link: <a href="https://zoom.us/j/6963933145?pwd=RmhUOENmZENsVzQ2Q1Z2K0JhbjdCdz09">CLICK HERE</a><br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XPSHqp_Oa1g/YKPg9nIudII/AAAAAAAAMc0/lA4iPhT7fpgiLyRvGwv2eWgYMZePLrcaACLcBGAsYHQ/s543/BZ10A.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="543" data-original-width="543" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XPSHqp_Oa1g/YKPg9nIudII/AAAAAAAAMc0/lA4iPhT7fpgiLyRvGwv2eWgYMZePLrcaACLcBGAsYHQ/s200/BZ10A.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs6VUyfNx6RkJ1khjKK-osDj03HTftY-iYlvTrVe24wZHPmyhGmxiPpR2qGR5HUNV5xZyrVr36YXKSH5c5K_aeJraLP7nxwqUICgipHYW1s0fp_xsS9Yzhn64Eg2TC67jnjAjO0FFekrWR/s237/Raven170.png" style="display: block; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" height="200" data-original-height="237" data-original-width="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs6VUyfNx6RkJ1khjKK-osDj03HTftY-iYlvTrVe24wZHPmyhGmxiPpR2qGR5HUNV5xZyrVr36YXKSH5c5K_aeJraLP7nxwqUICgipHYW1s0fp_xsS9Yzhn64Eg2TC67jnjAjO0FFekrWR/s200/Raven170.png"/></a></div>
<h2><b>For Spring Week 10:<br />
Mon May 24 - Sun May 30</b></h2>
<h3><b>Reading</b></h3>for Sat May 29
<ul><li>Barry Magid, <i>Ending the Pursuit of Happiness</i>, "What Is Meditation?" pp. 1-5.</li></ul>
Reading Schedule <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">HERE</a>
<h3><b>Week 10 Raven Tale</b></h3>
<ul><li>"<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/05/raven-170-talking-about-it.html">Talking About It</a>"</li></ul>
<h3><b>Week 10 Sutras</b></h3>
<b>Dedication</b>
<ul><li>For odd-numbered days, begins with Gatha of Atonement (<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WlYKZwbJT9kKg_--b1jDWn5-tGHvAMau/view">AUDIO</a>)</li>
<li>For even-numbered days, begins with The Three Refuges (<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CLXtROEeprIRHq4WIa1F5VAH2PKqKOVF/view">AUDIO</a>)</li></ul>
<b>Opening Verse</b> for Mon May 17 - Sun Jun 13 (3rd Fourweek)
<ul><li>Coming and Going, p. 4</li></ul>
<b>Sutra Service</b> for Week 10 (<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eJimD2tLFJ6a-BPhqhx2sipiVjzroLQL/view">AUDIO</a>)<ul>
<li>Heart Sutra, p. 11</li>
<li>Shitou's Song of the Grass Roof Hermitage, p. 29</li>
<li>Torei's Bodhisattva's Vow, p. 29</li></ul>
<b>Closing Verse</b> for Mon May 17 - Sun Jun 13 (3rd Fourweek) (<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iaY2LJt0bUnuzeI5EThFqrPE1AI6z_-U/view">AUDIO</a>)
<ul><li>The Necessity of Great Doubt, p. 39</li>
<li>The Four Bodhisattva Vows</li></ul><br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PEJ26Xar-3k/YKz530kUPCI/AAAAAAAAMdo/uj-eMb0IDzsZtRE1Kx8wY6DskwgIq_aAgCLcBGAsYHQ/s270/BZ11A.JPG" style="display: block; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" width="200" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="270" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PEJ26Xar-3k/YKz530kUPCI/AAAAAAAAMdo/uj-eMb0IDzsZtRE1Kx8wY6DskwgIq_aAgCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/BZ11A.JPG"/></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hh0NoltS0kg/YKz5_mfgTvI/AAAAAAAAMds/BV2RJXtOohEf88SwvRMT4BZL1UDbm5DGACLcBGAsYHQ/s636/Raven171.jpg" style="display: block; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" width="200" data-original-height="635" data-original-width="636" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hh0NoltS0kg/YKz5_mfgTvI/AAAAAAAAMds/BV2RJXtOohEf88SwvRMT4BZL1UDbm5DGACLcBGAsYHQ/s200/Raven171.jpg"/></a></div>
<h2><b>For Spring Week 11:<br />
Mon May 31 - Sun Jun 6</b></h2>
<h3><b>Reading</b></h3>for Sat Jun 5
<ul><li>Barry Magid, <i>Ending the Pursuit of Happiness</i>, "Why Are We (Really) Meditating?" pp. 5-11</li></ul>
Reading Schedule <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">HERE</a>
<h3><b>Week 11 Raven Tale</b></h3>
<ul><li>"<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/05/raven-171-best-presentation.html">The Best Presentation</a>"</li></ul>
<h3><b>Week 11 Sutras</b></h3>
<b>Dedication</b>
<ul><li>For odd-numbered days, begins with Gatha of Atonement (<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WlYKZwbJT9kKg_--b1jDWn5-tGHvAMau/view">AUDIO</a>)</li>
<li>For even-numbered days, begins with The Three Refuges (<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CLXtROEeprIRHq4WIa1F5VAH2PKqKOVF/view">AUDIO</a>)</li></ul>
<b>Opening Verse</b> for Mon May 17 - Sun Jun 13 (3rd Fourweek)
<ul><li>Coming and Going, p. 4</li></ul>
<b>Sutra Service</b> for Week 11.A. (<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1H-w6iMrGYh9nYGjtCXia9y82h14Nix0p/view">AUDIO</a>)<ul>
<li>A Blessing for the Journey, p. 30</li>
<li>Guidance in Shikantaza, p. 30</li>
<li>Sending and Receiving, p. 31</li></ul>
<b>Closing Verse</b> for Mon May 17 - Sun Jun 13 (3rd Fourweek) (<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iaY2LJt0bUnuzeI5EThFqrPE1AI6z_-U/view">AUDIO</a>)
<ul><li>The Necessity of Great Doubt, p. 39</li>
<li>The Four Bodhisattva Vows</li></ul><br>
<h2><b>Upcoming</b></h2>
<h3><b>Next Online Sesshin</b></h3>
Fri Jun 11, 7:00pm through Sun Jun 13, 12:30pm<br />
Online Practice periods include Zazen (seated meditation), kinhin (walking meditation), dharma talk, dharma dialogue, and dokusan (interview with teacher).<br />
Times of Online Practice:<br />
7:00am-8:30am -- Sat, Sun<br />
10:30am-12:30pm -- Sat, Sun<br />
2:30pm-4:30pm -- Sat<br />
7:00pm-8:30pm -- Fri, Sat<br /><br />
See the flyer for this event <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/16bAWRqQqwE24_oEfS8n8ZRS8SOMgzcOf7m1huh2DiP4/preview">HERE</a>.<br>
To register, go <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScX0X5BXPCU5g9dppTaCcZV5m3sFTFCUkyyCqXoTW6kwuUoPg/viewform">HERE</a>.<br><br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRA3Ycohncndux3DPib7jaSaNhL0MQu3y6xqLCqXhq-MMRpvK9ctcTRLW_Y8jIMA-EH9h6h5hiB_bfHSTfyxyM4oAqL3Y6KhoKHw5t2l9UfjE2NYlnCNRK0GFjy5dvTv-r6z7uymAZv55/s1050/2021-04-26.png" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1049" data-original-width="1050" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRA3Ycohncndux3DPib7jaSaNhL0MQu3y6xqLCqXhq-MMRpvK9ctcTRLW_Y8jIMA-EH9h6h5hiB_bfHSTfyxyM4oAqL3Y6KhoKHw5t2l9UfjE2NYlnCNRK0GFjy5dvTv-r6z7uymAZv55/s200/2021-04-26.png" width="200" /></a></div><h2><b>Sutra Book</b></h2>
For printing (double-columned pages):<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vahoOkrm8jTiYj7dmljOZNMQK_A41JVD/view">CLICK HERE</a>. (Page references are to this double-column version.)<br /><br />
For reading on your computer screen (single-column pages):<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EqKp8HUKiH9JfeuSDtouqvTGvovAkRtc/view">CLICK HERE</a>.<br /><br />
Chant Along with these Audio Files: <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">CLICK HERE</a>.<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Home Practice</b></h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/s421/BZ21.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="421" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/w270-h269/BZ21.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Practicing every day, or nearly every day, is a crucial aspect of the Zen path. Other central aspects include <b>sangha</b> (meeting weekly or so to practice with a group), and <b>sesshin</b> (going on occasional week-end or week-long Zen retreats).<br /><br />Home practice ideally includes Zazen, study of zen text (or listening to a recording or podcast of a dharma talk), and chanting/reciting some of Zen's central texts.<br /><br />Recommended:<ul><li>Sitting supplies: A zabuton (mat) and either a zafu (round cushion, usually of kapok or buckwheat hulls), or a seiza bench (kneeling bench); or a chair that is your meditation chair</li><li>A dedicated space: A corner of a room that is used only for Zen practice, where your sitting supplies and a small altar reside</li><li>An altar: a small table with a Buddha statue and maybe an incense holder, candle, or sacred items.</li></ul>There are many ways to structure home practice. Here's one:
<ul>
<li>Light a candle, stick of incense, or both, on your altar.</li>
<li>Standing in front of altar, facing it, make three bows (prostrations or standing bows) to Buddha.</li>
<li>Recite "Gatha of Atonement" (odd-numbered dates) or "The Three Refuges" (even-numbered
dates);</li><li>Recite Dedication and Opening Verse (see Sutra Book)</li>
<li>Zazen (25 mins)</li>
<li>Recite the Sutra Service Readings for the week (see Sutra Book)</li>
<li>Dharma Study time: reading a dharma book or listening to a dharma talk recording (15-30 mins). (Check out "A Quarterly Study Plan" on the <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">Reading/Videos page</a>.)</li>
<li>Recite Closing Verses (see Sutra Book)</li></ul><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Additional Practice Opportunities</b></h2>
White Plains Zen Center:<br />
Tue evenings: 7:30 PM<br />
<a href="https://zoom.us/j/122286388">https://zoom.us/j/122286388</a><br />
<br />
Hudson River Zen Center:<br />
<a href="http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/">http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/</a><br />
<br />
Insight Meditation with Nina Nagy<br />
Mon evenings: 6 PM<br />
<a href="https://www.awakeabiding.com/">https://www.awakeabiding.com/</a>
Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-5359935461703472662021-05-17T10:35:00.005-04:002021-06-15T12:51:46.339-04:00Raven 172: What the Practice Teaches<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IfPZsZqu3jA/YMivCbgLOPI/AAAAAAAAMeo/iOknlaT8uEI6BFDu9xtPvy1j_IVJIZIlgCLcBGAsYHQ/s332/Raven172.jpg" style="display: block; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" width="200" data-original-height="331" data-original-width="332" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IfPZsZqu3jA/YMivCbgLOPI/AAAAAAAAMeo/iOknlaT8uEI6BFDu9xtPvy1j_IVJIZIlgCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/Raven172.jpg"/></a></div>We live in forgetfulness of what we know. <i>Sati</i> is a central teaching in Buddhism. This Pali word is typically translated into English as "mindfulness." While "present-moment mindfulness" is a key practice, <i>sati</i> also means remembering. ("Mindfulness" also has this meaning, as, for example, when we say "be mindful of the slippery steps." We're saying "remember that the steps are slippery," combined with "exercise present-moment care when you get to the steps.")<br><br>
We live in forgetfulness of what we know. Practice tends to orient us toward more often living in remembrance of what we know. Like the fact that you're dying. Or the cup there on the table.<br><br>
<b>Case</b><blockquote>Gray Wold dropped by again and asked, "What can the practice teach me?"<br>
Raven said, "Whay you already know."<br>
Gray Wolf asked, "What do I already know?"<br>
Raven said, "You're dying."<br>
Gray Wolf said, "I try not to think about it."<br>
Raven said, "Not thinking about it is OK."
Gray Wolf said, "But there it is."<br>
Raven said, "There it is."<br>
After a short silence, Woodpecker asked, "Isnt' there a moment of understanding that seems to change everything?"<br>
Raven said, "Day to night."<br>
Woodpecker asked, "What does that moment teach me?"<br>
Raven said, "The Assembly Oak."<br>
Woodpecker said, "But I knew about that before."<br>
Raven said, "Like I said."</blockquote><br />
<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/05/raven-171-best-presentation.html">PREVIOUS</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/05/raven-173-underlying-scheme.html">NEXT</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/raven-index.html">INDEX</a>Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-91577828938142652322021-05-10T08:39:00.032-04:002021-06-15T12:50:45.473-04:00Raven 171: The Best Presentation<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dknPtERR8RU/YKz0GPdmhoI/AAAAAAAAMdg/nD723d6bzvI8fyv_kKiuLUtzYa_mWV2qACLcBGAsYHQ/s636/Raven171.jpg" style="display: block; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" width="200" data-original-height="635" data-original-width="636" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dknPtERR8RU/YKz0GPdmhoI/AAAAAAAAMdg/nD723d6bzvI8fyv_kKiuLUtzYa_mWV2qACLcBGAsYHQ/s200/Raven171.jpg"/></a></div>Raven doesn't mean that you should try to be splashy. Everything you do -- from brushing your teeth to falling asleep -- is plunging right in. The teaching is simply to understand this fact.<br><br>
<b>Case</b><blockquote>Porcupine met with Raven in private one afternoon and asked, "What is the best presentation of the great matter?"<br>
Raven said, "The thing."<br>
Porcupine asked, "How do you present the thing?"<br>
Raven said, "Splash."</blockquote><br />
<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/05/raven-170-talking-about-it.html">PREVIOUS</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/06/raven-172-what-practice-teaches.html">NEXT</a> ☙ <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/raven-index.html">INDEX</a>Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2929943780425373826.post-74894462518201942472021-05-09T12:51:00.001-04:002021-05-11T12:32:12.404-04:00Spring Week 8 & 9<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Now meeting BOTH in person AND on zoom.</b></span><br /><br />
Join the BoWZ-Westchester Sangha on Saturday mornings:<br />
<i>(Times: US Eastern)</i><br />
9:45-10:00 -- Informal conversation<br />
10:00 -- Opening Dedication, Readings, Zazen, Kinhin, Zazen<br />
11:00 -- Sutra Service<br />
11:15 -- Dharma Talk and Conversation<br />
12:00 -- Closing Readings<br /><br />
<b>IN PERSON</b> (only if you are fully vaccinated, please)<br />
Room 43 at<br />
Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation<br />
468 Rosedale Ave<br />
White Plains, NY<br /><br />
<b>ON ZOOM</b><br />
<a href="https://zoom.us/j/2898507899">https://zoom.us/j/2898507899</a><br />
Audio Only: telephone 646-876-9923 & Enter Meeting ID: 289 850 7899<br />
<br />
<b>Passcode: 468468</b><br />
<br />
Sat May 15: Practice to be led by Meredith Garmon<br />
<br />
Zoom with Boundless Way Zen Temple in Worcester, MA at any of these times:<br />
Mon-Fri, 7-8am<br />
Tue, Thu, Sun, 7-8pm<br />
Zoom link: <a href="https://zoom.us/j/6963933145?pwd=RmhUOENmZENsVzQ2Q1Z2K0JhbjdCdz09">CLICK HERE</a><br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gSgZmvmXoQI/YJWCbPYpjpI/AAAAAAAAMbU/dt2KaieuBKYr_or3DToUcKT-MA7YKjKFQCLcBGAsYHQ/s240/BZ08.png" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gSgZmvmXoQI/YJWCbPYpjpI/AAAAAAAAMbU/dt2KaieuBKYr_or3DToUcKT-MA7YKjKFQCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/BZ08.png" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEsqARLgX63Pk473Y_HHeKeU6iQ8wQPdKfsLyIH2iNuSIlJHcl9jHcnd7KiSTwnDFsVDOIhsHDKxRTnrAyvxuRk9buv0NdN7V5gId1_QAcIEdEohFwXsXedrKHCWMQ3XQJTfWMHWHF9C4W/s404/Raven168.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" width="200" data-original-height="371" data-original-width="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEsqARLgX63Pk473Y_HHeKeU6iQ8wQPdKfsLyIH2iNuSIlJHcl9jHcnd7KiSTwnDFsVDOIhsHDKxRTnrAyvxuRk9buv0NdN7V5gId1_QAcIEdEohFwXsXedrKHCWMQ3XQJTfWMHWHF9C4W/s200/Raven168.jpg"/></a></div>
<h2><b>For Spring Week 8:<br />
Mon May 10 - Sun May 16</b></h2>
<h3><b>Reading</b></h3>for Sat May 15
<ul><li>The Saturday Talk will address the readings in the week's Sutra Service: "Bussho," "Self-Receiving Samadhi," and "Shoji."</li></ul>
<h3><b>Week 8 Raven Tale</b></h3>
<ul><li>"<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/04/raven-168-right-path.html">The Right Path</a>"</li></ul>
<h3><b>Week 8 Sutras</b></h3>
<b>Dedication</b>
<ul><li>For odd-numbered days, begins with Gatha of Atonement </li>
<li>For even-numbered days, begins with The Three Refuges</li></ul>
<b>Opening Verse</b> for Mon Apr 19 - Sun May 16 (2nd Fourweek)
<ul><li>Invocation of Kanzeon, p. 3</li></ul>
<b>Sutra Service</b> for Week 8.A.<ul>
<li>Bussho -- "Buddha Natrue," p. 22</li>
<li>Self-Receiving Samadhi, p. 23</li>
<li>Shoji -- "Birth and Death," p. 23</li></ul>
<b>Closing Verse</b> for Mon Apr 19 - Sun May 16 (2nd Fourweek)
<ul><li>Spring Everywhere, p. 39</li>
<li>Save All the Beings, p. 42</li></ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3IWt1YCYsY/YJpZblvyYZI/AAAAAAAAMcA/Dr4XbUkgWYMHX7rjYLafKz_QDE6vSIY1wCLcBGAsYHQ/s369/BZ09A.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" width="200" data-original-height="369" data-original-width="369" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3IWt1YCYsY/YJpZblvyYZI/AAAAAAAAMcA/Dr4XbUkgWYMHX7rjYLafKz_QDE6vSIY1wCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/BZ09A.jpg"/></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EwUitqU75Jo/YJqxS4wV0OI/AAAAAAAAMco/sjh_l-7Vdzc3zzd7JjVFaG6SvGtxzjrSgCLcBGAsYHQ/s233/Raven169.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: right; float: right;"><img alt="" border="0" width="200" data-original-height="232" data-original-width="233" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EwUitqU75Jo/YJqxS4wV0OI/AAAAAAAAMco/sjh_l-7Vdzc3zzd7JjVFaG6SvGtxzjrSgCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/Raven169.jpg"/></a></div>
<h2><b>For Spring Week 9:<br />
Mon May 17 - Sun May 23</b></h2>
<h3><b>Reading</b></h3>for Sat May 22
<ul><li>Barry Magid, Ending the Pursuit of Happiness, "Introduction: If it Ain't Broke, Don't Fix It," pp. ix-xvi.</li></ul>
<h3><b>Week 9 Raven Tale</b></h3>
<ul><li>"<a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/2021/04/raven-169-teaching.html">Teaching</a>"</li></ul>
<h3><b>Week 9.A. Sutras</b></h3>
<b>Dedication</b>
<ul><li>For odd-numbered days, begins with Gatha of Atonement </li>
<li>For even-numbered days, begins with The Three Refuges</li></ul>
<b>Opening Verse</b> for Mon May 17 - Sun Jun 13 (3rd Fourweek)
<ul><li>Coming and Going, p. 4</li></ul>
<b>Sutra Service</b> for Week 9.A.<ul>
<li>Fukanzazengi, p. 26</li>
<li>Raihai Tokuzui, p. 26</li>
<li>Shinjin Gakudo, p. 27</li>
<li>Kaiin Zanmai, p. 27</li></ul>
<b>Closing Verse</b> for Mon May 17 - Sun Jun 13 (3rd Fourweek)
<ul><li>The Necessity of Great Doubt, p. 39</li>
<li>The Four Bodhisattva Vows</li></ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tOaZjLrsCHo/YIb9Y97iTvI/AAAAAAAAMaI/7DkqIX9HmPQJ2bH6mjFtRybJX4py1paEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s415/EndingPursuitHappiness.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="414" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tOaZjLrsCHo/YIb9Y97iTvI/AAAAAAAAMaI/7DkqIX9HmPQJ2bH6mjFtRybJX4py1paEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/EndingPursuitHappiness.jpg" /></a></div><h2><b>Upcoming</b></h2>
<h3><b>Next Book</b></h3>
Starting Mon May 17, we'll be reading:<br />
Barry Magid, <i>Ending the Pursuit of Happiness: A Zen Guide</i><br />
See: <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">Reading Schedule</a><br />
<h3><b>Next Online Sesshin</b></h3>
<i>Reserve the weekend, and stay tuned for information on how to register.</i><br />
Fri Jun 11, 7:00pm through Sun Jun 13, 12:30pm<br />
Online Practice periods include Zazen (seated meditation), kinhin (walking meditation), dharma talk, dharma dialogue, and dokusan (interview with teacher).<br />
Times of Online Practice:<br />
7:00am-8:30am -- Sat, Sun<br />
10:30am-12:30pm -- Sat, Sun<br />
2:30pm-4:30pm -- Sat<br />
7:00pm-8:30pm -- Fri, Sat<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRA3Ycohncndux3DPib7jaSaNhL0MQu3y6xqLCqXhq-MMRpvK9ctcTRLW_Y8jIMA-EH9h6h5hiB_bfHSTfyxyM4oAqL3Y6KhoKHw5t2l9UfjE2NYlnCNRK0GFjy5dvTv-r6z7uymAZv55/s1050/2021-04-26.png" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1049" data-original-width="1050" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRA3Ycohncndux3DPib7jaSaNhL0MQu3y6xqLCqXhq-MMRpvK9ctcTRLW_Y8jIMA-EH9h6h5hiB_bfHSTfyxyM4oAqL3Y6KhoKHw5t2l9UfjE2NYlnCNRK0GFjy5dvTv-r6z7uymAZv55/s200/2021-04-26.png" width="200" /></a></div><h2><b>Sutra Book</b></h2>
For printing (double-columned pages):<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vahoOkrm8jTiYj7dmljOZNMQK_A41JVD/view">CLICK HERE</a>. (Page references are to this double-column version.)<br /><br />
For reading on your computer screen (single-column pages):<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EqKp8HUKiH9JfeuSDtouqvTGvovAkRtc/view">CLICK HERE</a>.<br /><br />
Chant Along with these Audio Files: <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1INP2aR901lCsOkJ7C9vbCO_G1rNuljLU">CLICK HERE</a>.<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Home Practice</b></h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/s421/BZ21.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="421" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo48cfoTTqysHYfK_28WYcBrzQwdtOYHfQIBA3iVph1GqhEkRqIMSSGvh49uJVxwWPcEZge7Hxg9Z8y2CgBqdZxLL-RFObNGX0HyYMk6yohDHqWnx95yKyeBV8-_inZ863kZOyPCnSFYzf/w270-h269/BZ21.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Practicing every day, or nearly every day, is a crucial aspect of the Zen path. Other central aspects include <b>sangha</b> (meeting weekly or so to practice with a group), and <b>sesshin</b> (going on occasional week-end or week-long Zen retreats).<br /><br />Home practice ideally includes Zazen, study of zen text (or listening to a recording or podcast of a dharma talk), and chanting/reciting some of Zen's central texts.<br /><br />Recommended:<ul><li>Sitting supplies: A zabuton (mat) and either a zafu (round cushion, usually of kapok or buckwheat hulls), or a seiza bench (kneeling bench); or a chair that is your meditation chair</li><li>A dedicated space: A corner of a room that is used only for Zen practice, where your sitting supplies and a small altar reside</li><li>An altar: a small table with a Buddha statue and maybe an incense holder, candle, or sacred items.</li></ul>There are many ways to structure home practice. Here's one:
<ul>
<li>Light a candle, stick of incense, or both, on your altar.</li>
<li>Standing in front of altar, facing it, make three bows (prostrations or standing bows) to Buddha.</li>
<li>Recite "Gatha of Atonement" (odd-numbered dates) or "The Three Refuges" (even-numbered
dates);</li><li>Recite Dedication and Opening Verse (see Sutra Book)</li>
<li>Zazen (25 mins)</li>
<li>Recite the Sutra Service Readings for the week (see Sutra Book)</li>
<li>Dharma Study time: reading a dharma book or listening to a dharma talk recording (15-30 mins). (Check out "A Quarterly Study Plan" on the <a href="https://www.bowzwestchester.org/p/reading.html">Reading/Videos page</a>.)</li>
<li>Recite Closing Verses (see Sutra Book)</li></ul><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Additional Practice Opportunities</b></h2>
White Plains Zen Center:<br />
Tue evenings: 7:30 PM<br />
<a href="https://zoom.us/j/122286388">https://zoom.us/j/122286388</a><br />
<br />
Hudson River Zen Center:<br />
<a href="http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/">http://hudsonriverzencenter.org/</a><br />
<br />
Insight Meditation with Nina Nagy<br />
Mon evenings: 6 PM<br />
<a href="https://www.awakeabiding.com/">https://www.awakeabiding.com/</a>
Meredith Garmonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16197895762895387696noreply@blogger.com0