Suziki Roshi says "Zen Practice is the direct expression of our true nature.

Of course, whatever we do is the expression of our true nature, but without this practice it is difficult to realize."
When Suzuki Roshi says Zen practice he means the practice of Zazen which we do without trying to achieve anything or thinking that we are doing something special. He says Zazen "...is the activity which appeases your inmost desire." That's a pretty great claim. Great as is huge and great as in powerful and amazing. For me it is a motivator to sit still, and, as Dogen says, "learn the backward step that turns your light inwardly to illuminate yourself."

That's plenty to think about, don't you think.

We will be talking about the how and why of Zazen during our fall meetings. Whatever comments you would like to add to the post will be gratefully received.

Sutra on the Four Establishments of Mindfulness

"The Buddha said Bhikkhus, there is a most wonderful way to help living beings realize purification, overcome directly grief and sorrow, end pain and anxiety, travel the right path and realize nirvana. This way is the Four Establishments of Mindfulness.

What are the four? Here, monks, in regard to the body a monk abides contemplating the body, diligent, clearly knowing and mindful, free from desires and discontent in regard to the world.

In regard to feelings he abides contemplating feelings, diligent, clearly knowing, and mindful, free from desires and discontent in regard to the world.

In regards to the mind he abides contemplating the mind, diligent, clearly knowing, and mindful, free from desires and discontent in regard to the world.

In regard to dhammas he abides contemplating dhammas, diligent, clearly knowing, and mindful, free from desires and discontent in regard to the world."

,