Dharma Talks are given by transmitted Zen or Buddhist teachers; Guest and Sangha Member Talks are given by senior students. Talks listed here are Dharma Talks unless otherwise noted. Please let us know if you have any problems viewing the video or listening to our audio! Email us at info@brightwayzen.org.

Search by Year:

2025
2024
2023

2026

The Goal of Practice – Domyo 4/12/2026
Sōtō Zen, among religions, uniquely presents as a path of practice. There are many different ways to manifest your Bodhisattva vows along this path at Bright Way Zen, which include: Jukai, Zaike Tokudo, Shuso, etc. This is, in a way, a koan of Sōtō Zen practice – if there is nothing to attain, and nothing to achieve, then why do there seem to be goals? (link to video) (link to podcast episode)

Dōgen’s Sansuikyo, Sutra of Mountains and Waters, Part 3 – Domyo (4/5/2026)
Domyo and Sangha continue the conversation about this fascinating Dōgen sutra, specifically section 2-2: East Mountains Walking in the Water. In the dream of Sansuikyo, what could be the meaning of “mountains”, “walking”, “sentient vs. insentient”, or “incomprehensibility as a false notion”? (link to video) (link to podcast episode)

Dōgen’s Sansuikyo, Sutra of Mountains and Waters, Part 2 – Domyo (3/29/2026)
Mountains walking, a stone woman giving birth in the night…what could these things mean? This sutra might be best read as poetry, or like a dream. Domyo and Sangha members continue reading from this fascicle and consider which passages resonate most for each of us. (link to video) (link to podcast episode)

Dōgen’s Sansuikyo, Sutra of Mountains and Waters, Part 1 – Domyo (3/22/2026)
Many of Dōgen writings (as well as other Ch’an and Zen writings), although poetic, can seem vague and obscure. However, they can communicate the truth deeply and be quite profound through study. Domyo and Sangha members begin to read from and discuss this fascicle and its meaning, getting through only the first paragraph! (link to video) (link to podcast episode) – Links to additional resources: Text of Sansuikyo ~ Text formatted as a booklet ~ Audio version of Dogen’s Sansuikyo – Mountains and Waters Sutra

An Overview of 2500 Years of Buddhist Texts in our Lineage – Domyo (3/15/2026)
Given the daunting volume and diversity of Buddhist texts available to read – where does one even begin? How does it all fit together and interrelate? Our teacher gives an overview of the major Buddhist sects (as illustrated in this complex and colorful lineage tree graphic) and by pointing out foundational sutras and key Soto Zen texts, to better orient and encourage us to study the Dharma. (link to video) (link to podcast episode)

Bearing Witness – Domyo (3/8/2026)
The Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara/Kanzeon is beloved for their omniscient, compassionate awareness to the cries of the world. Keeping them in mind, Sangha members name aloud some of what we are bearing witness to in today’s world. How do we remain aware and open-hearted to the state of things, while staying committed to our Bodhisattva vow to liberate all beings? How can we bear witness even though there may be nothing we can do? (link to video) (link to podcast episode)

Enlivening Our Zazen – Domyo (3/1/2026)
Particularly in Soto Zen, our central practice of Shikantaza – just sitting – the method of no-method – can be challenging. How can we steer away from dullness, dreaminess, and scattered thoughts? Luckily there are many ways in which we can stay more engaged and wholehearted in our Zazen. Domyo and Sangha members share helpful thoughts, tips, and methods. (link to video) (link to podcast episode)

Buddha Meeting Buddha: Embracing Social Abundance – Domyo 2/22/2026
Social relationships can be very challenging to our practice. It’s common for people to feel a sense of lack, rejection or inadequacy. How can we stay connected to one another and feel mutual acceptance and belonging? It starts with realizing everyone around you is suffering, and meeting them where they are – acknowledging their own inherent goodness and value, with a sense of responsibility and compassion for them as if they were our only child. When we adopt the attitudes of a Buddha, we transform ourselves and the world. (link to video) (link to podcast episode)

The Sandokai: Harmony of Difference and Sameness – Domyo 2/15/2026
This chant is recited daily in Soto Zen monasteries and temples around the world – there are only a handful of Buddhist scriptures we honor in that way. Our teacher clarifies its meaning, line by line. Why is it so important? How does it relate to our Bodhisattva Vows? This teaching is about how relative and absolute aspects of reality aren’t really separate. (link to video) (link to podcast episode)

Building Beloved Community – Domyo (2/8/2026)
Based on finding a potential new Zendo property, plus the recently successful fundraising effort, Domyo describes our shared vision and the role of trust through the eyes of Dharma. Sangha members express their feelings of community support, connection and gratitude as we navigate toward owning a place where we can go – “where everybody knows your name.” (link to video) (link to podcast episode)

The One Who is Not Busy – Domyo (2/1/2026)
In a Koan from Hongzhi’s Book of Serenity, two Dharma brothers engage in a conversation. As one sweeps the ground, the other challenges him, observing: “Too Busy!” This feeling of “busyness” is a state that is relatable to many of us. In this talk, Sangha members share what characterizes busyness, and also what characterizes activity without a sense of busyness. How can we be still even in the midst of all of our commitments, activities, and challenges? (link to video) (link to podcast episode)

Transforming Fear – Domyo (1/25/2026)
Our teacher reads from Thich Nhat Hahn’s book “Fear: Essential Wisdom for Getting Through the Storm” the conviction that transforming fear into fearlessness is possible through deeply acknowledging one’s fears and their sources. Domyo invites Sangha members to openly express what they are most afraid of, and then share what ideas and practices help ground them and give them strength. A generous and courageous discussion follows. (audio only – link to podcast episode)

Returning to the Practice – Sangha member talk with Mick Stukes (1/18/2026)
Mick shares his challenges to keeping a committed and confident practice at home, and reads from the Shobogenzo Zuimonki. Are we “vessels of the Dharma” even in our perceived inadequacies or difficulties? Is the big “E” attainable even if we feel too small for it?  Dōgen’s radical idea is that practice and enlightenment are not separate. It’s when we return to this place, here and now, and simply do our practice that we can find that thing that we’re looking for. (link to video) (link to podcast episode)

Zazen as the Ultimate Self-Care – Domyo (1/11/2026)
Self-care can be defined as regenerative activity, free from a sense of entitlement, that supports healthy functioning. In this context, does Zazen qualify as “self-care”? What can Zazen do for us, and what is its true purpose? (link to video) (link to podcast episode)

How Buddhist is Zen? – Domyo (1/4/2026)
David Hinton makes the following argument in his book “China Root: On Taoism, Ch’an, and Original Zen” – that when Buddhism arrived in China it was fundamentally reinterpreted and reshaped by Taoist thought, and then the resulting amalgam of Ch’an, or Zen, was so transformed by Taoism that it became scarcely recognizable as Buddhism at all. Our guiding teacher explores this idea in the context of how original Buddhist teachings combined with Mahayana features (such as inherent Buddha nature, interdependence, thusness, “sudden” realization, and radical nondualism) to manifest as the Ch’an or Zen that we recognize. A lively discussion follows.
(link to video)  (link to podcast episode)

2025

Making Relaxation a Zen Practice – Domyo (12/21/2025)
In many ways, Zen practice takes effort: paying attention, regularly sitting zazen, following the precepts, etc. Then, at certain times in our lives, we’re asked to relax. What is our practice then? Ironically, true relaxation can be difficult, but also very important for our overall practice. We explore this topic together, just in time for the holidays. (Audio only, here)

Nothing Special: Ordinary Mind is the Way – Sangha Member Talk with James Gregg (12/14/2025)
Our shared practice can sometimes seem grandiose and enigmatic, accessible only to those with advanced spiritual attainments and abilities. The beauty of Zen, though, is that it is completely ordinary, available to everyone, everywhere, all the time. How can we let go of our clouded views and turn our attention to this ordinary mind? How can we accept – as Dōgen says – that “going forward is, after all, an everyday affair?” In this discussion, we explore the reasons why it can be hard to accept that our defilements and our Buddhanature are one. (Audio here)

The Importance of Sesshin – Domyo (12/7/2025)
As Rohatsu Sesshin begins for many Zen Buddhists all over the world, our teacher discusses Sesshin (a silent multi-day residential retreat), addresses the challenges, and describes why it’s important and central to Zen practice. (Audio here)

When Meditation is Not Enough – Domyo (11/30/2025)
Inspired by the regretful story of a dedicated monk who carried significant trauma, but was then instructed by his teacher to “snap out of it –  you know how to meditate!”, Domyo advises that Zazen and formal Buddhist practices can’t completely heal every wound, nor address all different kinds of psychological challenges alone. Three types are outlined, (trauma, attachment wounding, and narcissistic wounding) and we discuss aspects of our practice which can help create a Sangha environment of mutual awareness and care. (Audio here)

Your Original Face – Sangha member talk with Greg Kulik (11/23/2025)
The face is a reflection of the self in numerous ways. It conveys so much of who we are: our emotions, our history, our trauma, the prejudices we’ve experienced, our karma, our ancestry, our heritage, our age. Please bring your face and a willingness to know it more intimately as we discuss the myriad ways the image of the face comes up in our tradition. (Audio here)

Every Day is a Good Day – Domyo (11/16/2025)
When considering this classic Koan from the Blue Cliff Record, we might wonder, “Well, is today a good day? What is a good day, anyway?” Current research in evolutionary psychology suggests that the human mind might have a built in tendency toward negativity – and some of us might be even more naturally prone to depressive states to begin with. Regardless of our bias, most of us will experience darker moods once in awhile. If so, how can we aspire to live as if every day is a good day, no matter what? (Audio here)

Questions and Answers – Domyo (11/2/2025)
How can I creatively build a Zazen practice into the structure of my days? What can I do to be more wholly present and aware in my everyday activities of life? What’s a good text to start with to study Dōgen? How do you cultivate non-attachment to those things you strongly desire? Domyo addresses these topics, and more, during this open conversation.(Audio here)

Self Power and Other Power – Domyo (10/26/2025)
It is said that Zen and Pure Land Mahayana Buddhist traditions are like two ends of a tunnel – enter through one and exit through the other (in either direction!) Zen is generally regarded as being more self-powered through zazen and koans, (jiriki), whereas in Pure Land, devotional practices to Amida Buddha and Kanzeon are other-powered (tariki.) Domyo explores the distinction: how can “self powered” and “other powered” Buddhist practices relate, intersect, and inform our own practice? (Audio here)

Mind Itself is Buddha – Domyo (10/19/2025)
Today we consider this Dōgen fascicle from the translated Shōbōgenzō: “Just this mind itself is Buddha.” Our teacher encourages us to investigate Dōgen’s rearranging and reconfiguring the order of the characters in this phrase, ( 即心是佛 ) and to engage the question: If the heart/mind is already Buddha, what use is there to study further? Why does it matter? (Audio here)

A Time For Everything – Domyo (10/12/2025)
Cognitive dissonance is an inevitable part of being human. The contrasts between suffering and ease can be jarring and lead to a sense of deep dividedness. How can we face this? Beyond fundamentally accepting what is, we can also realize that there is a time for everything:
A time for selfless contemplation, and a time for giving freely of self –
A time for letting go of discrimination, and a time for moral discernment –
A time for being fully present in simple restorative activity, and a time for concrete Bodhisattva service to other beings in the world. (Audio here)

The Bahiya Sutra – Jinryu (10/5/2025)
The Bahiya Sutra is short, and the Buddha’s teaching contained within it is even shorter. But the teaching speaks volumes about key themes the Buddha left us to wrestle with. Maybe you’ll see why Jinyru calls it the Buddha’s “Elevator Pitch”… (Audio here)

Formal Positions and Roles in Zen – Domyo (9/28/2025)
Within the Sangha, why do we have special roles, hierarchy and structure? Our lineage tradition has decided, with much careful reflection, that the benefits of formal positions have value that outweighs the potential drawbacks. Domyo describes some of these roles (including that of Shuso, or head seat) in terms of commitment, levels of participation, and purpose. (Audio here)

Love Your Enemies – Domyo (9/21/2025)
All the major religions and many of the most influential people in history (Martin Luther King Jr., Gandhi, Nelson Mandela) emphasized the importance of including even your enemies in your sphere of love. What does this really mean when your enemies hate you and are persecuting the vulnerable? What does this really mean when you are filled with fear and anger, and feel the need to protect what is good and right? An open, honest discussion follows. (Audio here)

The Zen Response to Suffering and Injustice – Domyo (9/14/2025)
During these troubled times in our country and our world, our hearts are moved toward compassion for those harmed. As Zen Buddhists, how can we then respond? There are two simultaneous, essential approaches: freeing ourselves from dualism, and fulfilling our Bodhisattva Vow to free all beings. Our practice is to keep exploring the ways in which these paths are neither opposed, nor separate. (Audio here)

Hinayana and Mahayana: Two Aspects of Our Practice – Domyo (9/7/2025)
Although Hinayana literally translates as “small vehicle”, it is not lesser than or in opposition to the Mahayana, or “great vehicle”. Rather, Zen can be engaged with in a way that includes both Hinayana and Mahayana aspects. Our teacher clarifies these two complementary facets of our practice, and how both sides can balance and enhance the other. (Audio here)

Sangha Voices ~ In August, Domyo goes on sabbatical and talks are given by Sangha members.

Practicing With a Body – Sangha member talk with Leah Jay (8/31/2025)
Do you have a body? If so, let’s talk about how we can embrace a fulfilling Zen practice with this “pivotal opportunity of human form” in all of its fraught, fragile, painful, sick, impermanent, and imperfect glory. (Audio here)

Shunryu Suzuki’s Becoming Yourself – Sangha nember talk with Coral West (2025-08-26)
This discussion covers a chapter of the new book by Shunryu Suzuki, Becoming Yourself. This book affirms that the central practice of Zen is to become truly ourselves. It encourages us to see how this seemingly simple invitation to “just be yourself” is actually the complete path of Zen practice and abides naturally within the precepts. The chapter that is discussed is called, “Taking Care of Yourself”. (Audio here)

My Teacher, Fear – Sangha member talk with Yuka (8/24/25)
Fear has been a constant in my life. As a child I was afraid of my mother and when I left home, fear followed me.
Needless to say, this has been a large source of suffering for me. My reaction to fear is to freeze – I cannot act –
I cannot think.
It is only recently that I have been able to really look at my fear when it is upon me. What I have learned is that by keeping
fear close, making fear my friend, I have been able to learn from it.
What has been your teacher? (Audio here)

The Artist is Present: Zen, Art and Creation – Sangha nember talk with Greg Kulik (2025-08-19)
In his book, The Eight Gates of Zen: A Program of Zen Training, John Daido Loori discussed 8 gates of Zen practice we can enter in order to more fully realize the inherent Buddha nature that permeates us and everything around us. This talk focuses on the sixth of these gates, art practice.  By integrating the arts into our everyday lay practice, we are emulating an approach taken by Zen monastics going back centuries. During this talk, we examine the 7 characteristics of Zen aesthetics proposed by Kazuaki Tanahashi by viewing examples of both traditional Zen and contemporary western art, in order to guide us in our realization of the emptiness of artist, art and audience. (Audio here)

Not Losing Sight of the True Dharma – Sangha member talk with Jinryu (8/17/2025)
This talk is based on the fifth chapter of the book The Roots of Goodness by Kosho Uchiyama Roshi, translated by Daitsu Tom Wright. What is meant by the true dharma? Is it possible that in the meandering style of Uchiyama Roshi’s commentary on Dogen’s last fascicle, there’s an antidote to the chaotic life we find ourselves in today? (Audio here)

Cloudy with a Chance of Enlightenment – Neither Monk, nor Lay, Neither Here Nor There – Sangha member talk with Tyler Roach (2025-08-12)
In this talk Tyler discusses his Zen practice as a Cloud Sangha member focusing on a period of shift in the Winter where he noticed his motivation for practice decreased coupled with increased feelings of spiritual isolation. Through the talk he engages with Zen themes of attachment, practice enlightenment, Interbeing and Interconnectedness with all living things, solitude, Sangha, and finding our path right where we are. (Audio here)

Women in Soto Zen History – Sangha member talk with Ellen Tea (8/10/2025)
Are women in the 21st century subject to the same obstacles that might have limited commitment to Zen practice in the past? Our discussion will be based on the books IN THIS BODY, IN THIS LIFETIME and WOMEN OF THE WAY to gain perspective on whether cultural restrictions based on the traditional gender binary in both Japan and America persist or have lessened. (Audio here)

Zen and Quantum Physics – Sangha member talk with Mick Stukes – (2025-08-05) (Audio here)

Practicing with Privilege : The Four Embracing Actions – Sangha member talk with James Gregg (8/3/2025)
The word “privilege” has been at the forefront of public discourse for a number of years. And in that time, it has gotten a reputation for being somewhat of a “dirty word.” But what if we can recognize our own inherent privilege – in whatever form it takes – and transform it into bodhisattva action?  In this talk, James discusses Buddhism’s origins in privilege, and how through the “Four Embracing Actions” we can use it to help alleviate the suffering of the world. (Audio here)

The Dharma of Family – Domyo (7/20/2025)
Can our family ties allow us insight into the true nature of self and the Dharma?  If so, how?  Domyo and Sangha describe and discuss not only the challenges, but also the opportunities that can emerge from exploring these relationships more deeply. (Audio here)

What Would A Buddha Do? – Domyo (7/13/2025)
Practice isn’t just zazen, study, or Sangha participation. Our effort to awaken to, and accord with, Reality-with-a-Capital-R is something we can do every single moment of life. One way to make practice relevant no matter what you’re doing is to ask, “What would [a] Buddha do?” It doesn’t matter whether there have ever been perfectly enlightened Buddhas – the ideal resonates within our hearts, and it’s generally pretty easy to answer this question. Then we can use that answer to investigate our own minds. (Audio here)

Bearing Witness During Challenging Times – Domyo (7/6/2025)
Our teacher takes some time to bear witness to the current political situation in the U.S., and invites us to join her. As Zen practitioners, we know the best way to deal with suffering is to face it directly. Thankfully, practice gives us the tools to not be overwhelmed by these challenges, and to respond in a centered, balanced and authentic way. Sangha members share their responses and thoughts. (Audio here)

How Often to Sit Zazen, and How Practice Relates to Other Interests – Domyo (6/29/2025)
Today our teacher answers a couple of questions submitted by Sangha members. How often and how long should we be sitting?  What hobbies, fields, or disciplines can compliment or inform your Zen practice? (Audio only)

Practice is How You Do Everything, Moment By Moment – Domyo (6/22/2025)
For most of us, formal Zen practice only takes up a small fraction of our time. But what about the rest of the time, when we’re cooking, cleaning, and engaging in the various mundane activities of life? Domyo relates some ways we can pay closer attention and care, be more mindful, and manifest our practice wholeheartedly, in each moment. (Audio here)

Truths You Can Rely On in Times of Trouble – Domyo (6/15/2025)
Domyo describes some fundamental truths we can rely on, take refuge in, build our lives around, and take inspiration from — no matter what happens in the world. (Audio here)

The Treasure of Sangha – Domyo (6/8/2025)
The Bright Way Zen congregation and community is an example of the Sangha treasure, one of the three treasures of Zen Buddhism. What is “Sangha” really? What do we want it to be? How can we nurture and take refuge in Sangha as central to our practice? Staying connected with each other in the context of our shared values, no matter what, can support, engage, and inspire us along the path. (Audio here)

Denkoroku: The Seventh Ancestor, Vasumitra – Domyo (5/25/2025)
This Sunday’s talk is about Keizan’s seventh chapter of the Denkoroku, in which Vasumitra places a wine vessel before his teacher Mishaka. Finding our way into this story together, Domyo guides us to explore the symbolism and deeper meaning within. (Audio here)

Within a Dream, Expressing the Dream – Guest talk with Shin’ei Alison Brown (5/18/2025)
The dream before reality, the nightmare before tragedy, fright before the monster, nausea before the fall. The world is a dream, imagined. The power of the archetype is numinous, suggestive; it hints, and alludes yet can never be thoroughly known. Archetypes lift us out of the limited space of brute, merely personal reality, encouraging the difficult inner work, encouraging a renewed relationship with the 10,000 beautiful things and…to bring great happiness. (Audio here)

Bad Zazen – Domyo (5/11/2025)
What is “bad” zazen, anyway?  What do we do about it? Zazen seems simple according to instructions…but as we know, it’s not always easy to engage with the practice perfectly, or sometimes even at all. Hopefully, through vow, intention, aspiration, and increased familiarity with true Shikantaza, over time we can open ourselves to the peace, clarity and joyful ease….of good Zazen! (Audio here)

One Foot in Each Reality – Domyo (5/4/2025)
During troubled and uncertain times, we can easily feel overwhelmed, hopeless, and powerless. It can be scary to face how we feel — but doing so can enliven us, awaken our compassion, and motivate us to practice. Fortunately, as part of our practice, the Bodhisattva Vow turns us not only toward saving beings in this world, but also toward the integration of the two truths in both the dependent and independent dimensions. As aspiring Bodhisattvas, we can stand balanced and grounded — in both. (Audio here)

Lectio Divina and Shantideva’s Bodhisattva Vow – Sangha member talk with Linda Brown (4/27/25)
Linda introduces us to “Lectio Divina” (“divine reading”) – a Christian monastic practice that has been around since the 12th century. Applying Lectio Divina to Shantideva’s Bodhisattva Vow, she guides us through this deep, resonant, and contemplative practice. (Audio here)

Guilty? Pleasures: Buddhist Practice, Renunciation, and Embracing this Life – Domyo (4/20/2025)
Zen tradition encourages living a life of renunciation, and setting aside our desires and various worldly attachments. We could figure this is advice is for other people, not ourselves. Sure, the truly renunciate path is still available in this world, with rewards that make the sacrifice more than worth it. Why then do the majority of us walk the “dusty path” of staying home to accomplish the way? The Bodhisattva ideal shows a value in, to some extent, postponing our own awakening by engaging in the world. If we trust there is a reason for our own practice field to be what it is, we can walk our own path without guilt. (Audio here)

Questions and Answers – Domyo (4/13/2025)
Some topics addressed on this “open Q & A” Sunday included: What to focus on when you’re new to Zen, what it truly means to let go of attachment, who is Dogen and why his writings are important, and the role of chanting in our practice. (Audio here)

Devotion in Zen – Domyo (4/6/2025)
On this Sunday after the Vesak ceremony, Domyo reflects on the devotional aspects of our Zen Buddhist practice. Why pour sweet tea over a statue’s head, or light candles and incense on an altar? Through such acts of devotion, we not only express our gratitude for tradition and the lineage — we can also acknowledge, surrender, and open ourselves up to what is most true. (Audio here)

Denkoroku: The Sixth Ancestor, Mishaka – Domyo (3/30/2025)
Our teacher describes Keizan’s sixth chapter of the Denkoroku and explains its meaning. Like Mishaka, should we think to command special powers of wizardry to affect the world, or ourselves? Zen practice is not about cultivating powers. At a deeper level it becomes the actualization of reality, itself — beyond differentiation and finite perception to the infinite ocean beyond our knowing. (Audio here)

The Three Ways of Giving – Sangha member talk with Coral West (3/23/2025)
In the ancient Buddhist teaching called “The Three Ways of Giving” there are three traditional gifts: amisa-dana (the material gift), dhamma-dana (the spiritual gift), and abhaya-dana (the gift of fearlessness). The most virtuous type of giving, the gift of fearlessness, is to protect the emotional and physical well being of others. Generosity, or dana, is the gateway to the bodhisattva path and the first of six perfections. Coral begins by discussing abhaya-dana and her practice with it, followed by an open discussion. (Audio here)

Questions and Answers – Domyo (3/16/2025)
Domyo addresses issues and topics raised by Sangha members, such as: how to work with attachment and self-attachment in our close relationships, approaches to judgement of our experiences and preferences, and how our practice can help us navigate others’ polarized and challenging world views from an authentic and grounded center. (Audio here)

Questions and Answers – Domyo (3/9/2025)
Our teacher answers questions posed by Sangha members, such as: What is the significance of the texts and chants that appear in our chant book? How does the Gatha of Atonement apply to both harming oneself and harming others? (Audio here)

The Power of Equanimity – Domyo (3/2/2025)
What is equanimity in a Buddhist sense? Maintaining this composure and even-mindedness can be hard to come by, particularly in distressing, threatening, or challenging conditions. Our teacher explains how to cultivate true equanimity, and why it’s important to develop it as a Bodhisattva response to the state of our world. (Audio here)

Avoiding The Second Arrow: Meeting Life Where It Is – Sangha member talk with James Gregg (2/23/2025)
We all know the drill – something bad happens, and it hurts. And as if that isn’t enough, in response to that pain, we add more suffering in the form of anger, sadness, anxiety, etc. In the Pali Canon this is referred to as “a second arrow” that we inflict on ourselves. In this discussion James shares his thoughts on why we seem to have a quiver full of “second arrows” and what the Buddha had to say about avoiding them. (Audio here)

Connecting With The Ineffable – Domyo (2/16/2025)
Is Zen Buddhism more than an effective and insightful self-improvement project? Is there greater relevance beyond our own personal practice? Why does our intuition tell us that there is something more?  Marking the completion of Domyo’s tenth and final chapter of her book-in-progress, the Ten Fields of Zen Practice, she addresses the topic of the ineffable — that aspect of existence that is indefinable and beyond explanation. The wisdom of the Zen tradition offers a non-theistic, apophatic, poetic and experiential approach to the ineffable. Beyond knowing and not-knowing, we can awaken to that something more that we are already a part of…a glorious and peaceful, mysterious joy. (Audio here)

Cloud Formations Guide, Part 3 – Sangha member talk with Greg Kulik (2/9/2025)
Sangha member Greg gives a final talk through his short publication, Cloud Formations: A Guide to Making the Most of Zen Forms at Home and in the Cloud Zendo. He shares some of his personal background and thoughts, gives a description of what comprises a home altar (with examples), and touches upon the section “A Model of a Formal Day-to-day Zen Practice”.  (Audio here)

Cloud Formations Guide, Part 2 – Sangha member talk with Greg Kulik (2/2/2025)
Sangha member Greg Kulik continues an overview of Cloud Formations: A Guide to Making the Most of Zen Forms at Home and in the Cloud Zendo. Greg covers the chapter “Common Physical Forms and Examples of When They are Used”, and a discussion follows. (Audio here)

Cloud Formations Guide, Part 1 – Sangha member talk with Greg Kulik (1/26/2025)
For this Sunday’s talk, Sangha member Greg introduces Cloud Formations: A Guide to Making the Most of Zen Forms at Home and in the Cloud Zendo. This talk and this document are intended to help all members of the Sangha to better become ordained into their lives while additionally allowing us to experience interbeing. This happens through the harmony of engaging in the Zen forms together as one entity made up of multiple individuals across numerous locations and platforms. (Audio here)

Fearlessness – Domyo (1/29/2025)
From Thich Nhat Hanh: “Fearlessness is not only possible, it is the ultimate joy.” Great! Then how can we reach this joyous, fearless state? A deeper understanding of the absolute – the independent dimension – or Reality with a capital “R” – can offer freedom and liberation from fear regardless of circumstances. Said another way: our practice can ground us in unconditional fearlessness. (Audio here)

Denkoroku: The Fifth Ancestor, Daitaka – Domyo (1/12/2025)
If you were Daitaka, your teacher Upagupta might ask you – “Do you want to enact and embody the Dharma literally and physically, or do you want to awaken personally to the deeper truths?” Well, ideally, we might ask for both. But perhaps, the answer is neither. The central message of this case is  to respond from the mind-ground, as opposed to intellectual knowledge alone. Since “the one who goes forth is the self of no-self”, Upagupta’s teaching is ultimately pointing toward our bodhicitta – the mind that seeks the way. (Audio here)

The Tricky Practice of Vow: Differentiating Aspiration from Dissatisfaction – Domyo (1/5/2025)
Vow is central to Buddhist practice. However, our relationship to our vows can be challenging. In practice, we can aim for balance. Exploring the potential dukkha underlying your aspirations, embracing self-acceptance, as well as just starting small and being creative, can help bring us into a closer, more skillful, and more peaceful alignment with our truest vows. (Audio here)

2024

Meditation Subjects for 84,000 Different Kinds of Temperaments – Domyo (12/22/2024)
In a sutta from the Pali Canon, it says the Buddha taught meditation subjects suitable for the “84,000 different kinds of temperaments,” including those of lustful, hating, deluded, discursive, faith, or intellectual temperaments.
The sutta doesn’t explain what exactly these different temperaments are, but on Sunday we will play with the basic idea that each of us has our tendencies and affinities, and that this is why there are so many different teachings and practices in Buddhism. It’s not that we need to do all Buddhist practices – it’s that the tradition contains skillful means for all different kinds of people. What kind of person are you? (Audio here)

The Importance of Quiet Mind (and how to get one) – Domyo (12/15/2024)
Zen is often full of apparent contradictions, so it’s not surprising that both of the following statements are true:
1. At its most profound, our zazen is useless and goalless. We do not strive for any particular mind state.
2. Without a quiet mind, we are alienated from our true nature and can’t awaken to Reality.
Oh dear! Now what? Domyo addresses this conundrum, and also talks about ways each of us can access quiet mind, even if it is only for a moment at a time. (Audio here)

My Koan – I Do, Therefore I Am? – Sangha Member Talk with James Gregg (12/8/2024)
In this discussion, James explores the topic of personal koans, specifically centered around what he thinks his personal koan might be: “Am I what I do, or am I who I think I should be? And how does this intersect with and inform my practice?”  James hopes this honest and personal revelation may be of help to you as you investigate the personal koans of your own lives and practice. (Audio here)

Questions and Answers – Domyo (12/1/2024)
Some topic addressed on this “open Q & A” Sunday included: recommended readings for Dharma study, meeting and overcoming doubt along the Buddhist path, evangelical Christianity and Zen compared, the role of compassion/metta in the Soto Zen tradition, the differences between Rinzai and Soto Zen, how to communicate right view with skillful means, and the importance of the Precepts and Sangha. (Audio here)

Radical Buddhism – Then and Now – Guest Talk with Thomas Bruner (11/24/2024)
While the stereotype of Buddhism is of calm, gentle, tranquil, soft-spoken practitioners moving through the world with kindness and equanimity, some Buddhist teachings were an affront to the religious and social order of the day. For different reasons, some Buddhist teachings seem to be an affront to the social and political order of today. We’ll explore how moving through our tumultuous times with a Buddhist lens might be as radical – and useful – today as it was then. (Audio here)

Finding Strength in Our Practice in Challenging Times – Domyo (11/10/2024)
What do we want from our Zen practice, our Sangha, and our Zen teachers at this time? In order to understand, to make sense of things, to know how to cope with our feelings, and how to respond, we can look to the three tenets of the Zen Peacemaker Order which are: 1. not-knowing, 2. bearing witness, and 3. taking action. Exploring these principles can enable us to show up with clarity, openness, interconnectedness and centeredness. (Audio here)

Practicing With Fear – Domyo (11/3/2024)
For most us, Tuesday’s general election is a source of great concern, even anxiety, fear, or anger. How do we practice with this? How might we maintain some measure of equanimity no matter what happens? What we can use to guide our life and sustain us even if the situation in our country worsens? If the election turns out the way we hope it will, how might we celebrate that without increasing the divisiveness in our society? Our guiding teacher quotes from the Dogen essay “Only Buddha and Buddha” (Yuibutsu Yobutsu translation), and offers a poem of her own, below: (Audio here)

Curing the Spiritual Illness That Causes Dukkha – Domyo (10/27/2024)
This talk addresses four points: 1. The purpose of Buddhist practice is to end Dukkha. 2. Dukkha is a feeling of existential dissatisfaction, which can range from acute distress to subtle unease. 3. Experiencing pain and discomfort is an inevitable part of human life, but Dukkha is a symptom of a spiritual illness that can be cured. 4. Buddhism offers a holistic approach to ending Dukkha, via three approaches. Domyo describes these, as well as the root causes of Dukkha, and welcomes discussion. (Audio here)

Moggallana’s Tale – Sangha Member Talk with Jinryu (10/13/2024)
In the lead-up to our Sejiki (Segaki) ceremony on October 27, we can recall Moggallana, who was a disciple of the Buddha. He dreamed of his mother suffering as a “Gaki” in the realm of the hungry ghosts. The Buddha suggested that he make an offering to her – anything she could eat, even if it was just candy.  Jinryu briefly talks about hungry ghosts: not just what they are in Buddhist myth, but also what it means to honor, respect, and feed the “hungry ghosts” in our lives and deeper selves in order to find greater freedom and relief.(Audio here)

What About Samadhi States? – Domyo (10/6/2024)
In addressing this question from a Sangha member, Samadhi (a Sanskrit word meaning “concentration”) is described and explored. What does this “meditative state” feel like? How can we recognize it, when it happens? How important is it? The Buddha described Right Concentration as part of the noble eightfold path, after all! Aspects of different kinds of experiences, from directed effort to letting go, are discussed. (Audio here)

Continuous Practice – Domyo (9/29/2024)
Last week was our first formal/lay practice hybrid retreat. The guiding text is from Dogen’s Gyoji, in which he points beyond a limited view of what we might ordinarily assume “practice” to be. In engagement with this illuminating and motivating fascicle, we can be encouraged to view this concept more expansively. How do we manifest and actualize practice that is truly sustained and continuous? How can we keep it going all day, every day? (Audio here)

The Tension Between Formal Practice and Everyday Life – Domyo (9/22/2024)
Formal Dharma practice is organized, structured practice and includes practicing with Sangha, chanting, study, zazen, ritual, retreat, or maintaining an altar. Everday Life Dharma practice is spontaneous, responsive practice aimed at awakening and manifesting compassion right here, right now, whatever is arising. It doesn’t take any particular form.
In lay life, we engage in Everyday Life practice almost 24 hours a day and are only occasionally able to dip into Formal Practice. How can we balance our desire for Formal Practice with the realities of our circumstances? What are some creative ways we can bring more Formal Practice into our life without causing conflict? How can we avoid making ourselves miserable longing for more Formal Practice when that doesn’t seem to be in the cards for us? (Audio here)

Reflections on Founder’s Day – Shintai (9/15/2024)
Through our Founders Day Ceremony, we recognize and honor the teachers and ancestors that came before to make this practice available to us. Shintai offers some reflections on what they passed down and what is truly given. (Audio here)

Denkoroku: The Fourth Ancestor – Domyo (9/8/2024)
Does your body go forth from household life, or does your mind? In exploring this beloved Sōtō Zen koan, ideas of home-leaving and ordainment, vs. an integrated path of lay practice are compared and discussed. (Audio here)

Is Buddhism Compatible with 21st-Century Life? – Domyo (9-1-2024)
Once we recognize interdependence and aspire to keep the precepts, it’s natural to wish we could live without doing harm. Modern life makes this impossible as long as we need to/want to remain engaged with society. However, just because it’s impossible doesn’t mean we are absolved of any need to consider the repercussions of our actions with great care. Just living in today’s society is to suffer, and to live in a perpetual state of ambiguity and moral stress! There is no simple or final answer, but when we face this reality honestly and without internal resistance — at a deep, fundamental level —  it’s okay. (Audio here)

Sangha Voices ~ In August, Domyo goes on sabbatical and talks are given by Sangha members.

Sangha Member Talk: Applications of Self Study – Coral West (8-27-2024)
In order to give up the self we need to study the self. In other words, before we give something away we need to have it fully in hand. So how do we study the self without turning it into academic study? This is a “way-seeking mind” talk about what self study looks like for Coral and what she’s learned along the way. (Audio here)

Sangha Member Talk: Nyoho – Zen Practice In Our Garden – Tyler Roach (8-20-2024)
Growing your own food is enjoyable, good for your health and good for the environment. However, when we choose to keep a food garden we also find unique opportunities to engage with our Zen practice. In this talk we go through the work we do in our gardens, season by season, in hopes to find different opportunities to deepen our Zen practice.  (Audio Here)

Sangha Member Talk: Discussions on Buddhahood – Mick Stukes (8-20-2024)
“Does practice make you better? What should you gain that you don’t already have?” Mick talks about how to balance practical positive changes in your life while also accepting that you are already what you need to be. (Audio here)

Sangha Member Talk: Can We Summon Skillful Means (Upaya) During a Fraught Election Cycle? – Ellen Tea (8-18-24)
Ellen recently was presented with an opportunity to respond to a politically motivated review of her business, a small independent bookshop. In relating her story and its outcome, the theme of Upaya, or skillful means, emerged. Are there are better ways to get a message across than reactivity? In this thoughtful conversation, the Sangha discusses similarly challenging encounters in their lives. (Audio here)

Sangha Member Talk: Taking the Via Negativa from Quietism to Idealessness – Mark Williams (8-13-2024)
In Sino-Japanese, a part of the Heart Sutra reads:
Mu shiki mu ju so gyo shiki, mu gen ni bi ze shin ni, mu shiki sho ko mi soku ho mu gen kai nai shi mu i shiki kai, mu mu myo yaku, mu mu myo jin. Nai shi mu ro shi yaku, mu ro shi jin. Mu ku shu metsu do, mu chi yaku mu toku. I mu sho toku ko.  The word “mu”, meaning “no”, “not”, or “without” appears over fifteen times in this brief excerpt! Why is the rhetorical tool of negation (the “via negativa”) so prevalent in the classical Zen presentation of the dharma? Mark explores the role of negation in the Platform Sutra, one of the earliest Zen texts, relates it to some of his own practice challenges, and how it continues to guide him today. (Audio here)

Sangha Member Talk: Just Sitting With Shikantaza – James Gregg (8-11-24)
What is the point of “just sitting”, anyway? James discusses from a personal perspective how he’s come to relate to Shikantaza over time, from learning many “directed effort” practices, to embracing this practice of directly experiencing things as they really are. (Audio here)

Sangha Member Talk: One Bright Pearl – Jinryu (8-06-2024)
Chan Master Gensha Shibi is famous for saying, “The whole universe in the ten directions is One Bright Pearl.” Dogen was particularly fond of this teaching and wrote a fascicle on the topic, Ikka Myoju, including it in his Shobogenzo. Dogen’s essay starts with the koan where Gensha stubs his toe.  This discussion will focus on the second koan in Dogen’s essay, “The whole universe in the ten directions is One Bright Pearl.” A monk asks Gensha what it means. Well, what does it mean? How do you understand it? (Audio here).

Sangha Member Talk: What Are We and Why Does It Matter? – Joan Maurer (8-04-2024)
In Buddhism, what we understand as what we are, directs our life. In this personal and insightful talk, Joan explores concepts of Buddha-nature which arises moment by moment, can’t be possessed, and can’t exist without our trust, intimacy, and waking up to it. (Audio here)

Our Greatest Concerns – Domyo (7-28-2024)
What are the three biggest concerns in your life? On this Sunday, the Sangha shared their current top three, and among us there were some common themes – the environment, politics, social justice, community, vocations, health and wellbeing, family, and relationships. Can the Dharma and our spiritual practice answer these concerns, or even just soothe us? At least it could give us some perspective and insight to “insulate” us from all this. Right? (Audio here)

Sangha Member Talk: Not Just in the Cloud – Ellen Tea, Mick Stukes, and Tyler Roach (7-21-2024)
Our Bright Way Zen Sangha is composed of two interwoven entities: the “Dirt” Zendo as the physical space for gathering in Beaverton, Oregon and the Zoom “Cloud” Zendo where folks participate from near and far. Since Covid, the need for remote access has hugely increased and our online program offerings have expanded in response. But what does it mean to sit with sangha across many miles and time zones? We’ll hear from several Bright Way Zen Cloud dwellers who will share their opinions about what makes for a full-fledged sangha experience that relies on digital connection from afar. (Audio here)

Chapter Four of the Denkoroku – Domyo (7-14-2024)
In the Denkōroku (Record of the Transmission of Illumination), Keizan’s dreamlike, poetic imagery transcends the limitations of language. In this 4th chapter, why did Ananda tug on his student’s robe? What was the significance of this gesture? Our teacher encourages us to open our minds to the nature of this awakening, and invites reflection. (Audio here)

Waking Up, and “Just Working With It” – Domyo (7-7-2024)
You can maintain mindfulness and presence the moment you awaken from sleep – but it’s not necessarily easy, or automatic. Another practice opportunity is when we experience difficult thoughts and feelings. What is meant when someone says “just work with it”? In answering these questions from Sangha, many comments and perspectives enrich the conversation. (Audio here)

Teachers, Students, and Disciples – Domyo (6-30-2024)
Do I need to know when a teacher is trying to teach me something? Is it always “a Teaching”? Formalizing a teacher/student relationship is no small commitment, and is completely optional, but can be the right path for some. In Zen, the definitions of and relationships between teacher and student, and ordained and lay discipleship — from the broad context of Soto Zen to the more specific Dharma Rain/Bright Way lineage — are clarified and discussed. (Audio here)

Talking About Politics as a Buddhist – Domyo (6-23-2024)
How do we talk about politics while remaining true to our aspirations as a Buddhist? How do we speak our minds, address injustice, vent our frustrations, debate important matters, and seek support from others without violating the Buddha’s guidance for “Right Speech” – is it true, beneficial, and said at the right time? How do we stand up for what we think is right without building up our sense of self and vilifying the “other”? (Audio here)

Chapter Two of the Denkoroku – Domyo (6-16-2024)
Domyo discusses Chapter Two of the Denkoroku (Record of the Transmission of Illumination), which provides the record of how Ananda awakened to the Way. This talk is ripe with the significance of Ananda’s awakening to all Zen practitioners. Ananda could recite and fully understand ALL of the Buddha’s teachings, so what was it that he “realized” upon awakening. What is it that we are trying to realize when we become “enlightened”. (Audio here)

How to Keep Our Practice Alive Over Summer – Domyo (6-9-2024)
If your Zen practice languishes a bit when the sun is high and the days are long, you’re not alone… When life seems easy, in some ways we are experiencing the “heaven realm” in which we lack motivation to practice. Domyo recommends a way through. (Audio here)

Jukai, Cloud Participation, and the Value of Smiling – Domyo (5-26-2024)
Leading up to next Sunday’s ceremony, Domyo gives an overview of how and why some of us may choose to learn the Precepts and endeavor to follow them and take the vows of Jukai. She also touches upon the benefits of keeping your camera on and chanting along with the Dirt zendo when you’re in the Cloud. Lastly, she answers a Sangha question: is it better to smile, even when you’re not feeling it? A lively discussion follows. (Audio here)

Sangha Member Talk: The Women Ancestors of Zen – Linda Brown (5-19-2024)
Linda tells how she found Buddhism, how she discovered the value of a consistent, transparent, accountable lineage and tradition, and how lucky she feels having found Bright Way and Dharma Rain with strong female transmitted teachers. She continues with a fascinating discussion of the female Dharma lineage, reading from “Women of the Way” by Sallie Jiko Tisdale. (Audio here)

Honoring Mother Earth – Domyo (05-12-2024)
This morning, Domyo shares some personal thoughts on the climate crisis, spurred by the most recent survey of the world’s leading IPCC climate scientists. At least 80% forecast a 2.5 degree (Celsius) increase while almost 50% expected a 3 degree shift. Only 6% if the scientists agreed that 1.5 degrees could be met with immediate and drastic action. From a peer-reviewed, scholarly article:

Looking into the future, in a world with 2°C of global warming (0.8°C warmer than today which at current emission levels would be reached as early as the 2040s), this event would have been another degree hotter. An event like this – currently estimated to occur only once every 1000 years, would occur roughly every 5 to 10 years in that future world with 2°C of global warming. (Article)

If you experienced that heat dome events here in Oregon, you’ll agree that prediction is nothing short of terrifying. (Click here to read the Guardian article)
There are things to do as a Sangha, and as individuals. We can cultivate hope through taking action in the world: joining with OCERA (Oregon Coalition for an Environmental Rights Amendment) (which strengthens the state constitution to protect all life,) Third Act, Divestment efforts, Electrify Oregon, supporting political candidates, etc.
In the meantime, life, as it is, continues. A powerful discussion follows on this beautiful Mother’s day. (Audio here)

Making a Vow of Inner Nonviolence – Domyo (05-05-2024)
We all have aspects of ourselves we would like to fix, disown, or even expunge completely from our being: Laziness, greed, jealousy, anger, anxiety, depression, addiction, judgmentalism, attachment to thoughts, concerns about appearance… the list can go on and on.  We don’t want these negative aspects to cause suffering for self or others, so we seek to control them while hoping that, in the long run, we can get rid of them. This approach has limited effectiveness and is a kind of inner violence (sometimes subtle, sometimes flagrant).  Much more transformative is to clearly see and accept whatever manifests within us, making a vow of complete, unconditional inner nonviolence. (Audio here)

The Five Efforts in Zazen – Domyo (04-21-2024)
Building tolerance for life, making peace with life, becoming intimate with life, seeing the true nature of life, and being one with life…These descriptions of what can happen in Zazen can apply to our larger Zen practice, too. (Audio here)

Texts to Memorize, and Proper Forms in Zazen – Domyo (04-14-2024)
What Sōtō Zen text would be the first, if any, to memorize? What’s the practice of chanting all about? If we’re sitting Zazen, how do we know we’re sitting with correct form? Sangha questions lead to an interesting, insightful conversation. (Audio here)

What Would the Buddha Say? – Domyo (04-07-2024)
This Sunday’s talk addresses a question submitted by a Sangha member – “Watching the current historical crisis in humanity, what would the Buddha say to us?” The Buddha would answer with perfect wisdom, of course – yet in ways we would not necessarily hope for, nor expect. This idea is explored in further group discussion. (Audio here)

Zazen: The Second Field of Zen Practice – Domyo (03-31-2024)
In Zen, Zazen is an essential part of the path to awakening.  However, some criticize Shikantaza (“just sitting”) as a passive, aimless, empty, waste of time. How can we engage with this practice in an active, focused, and expansive way? (Audio here)

The Role of Sutra Study in Zen Buddhism – Domyo (03-24-2024)
If Zen Buddhism centers Zazen in one’s practice, why are there so many texts to read? This Sunday Domyo sheds some light on the importance of studying the teachings revered and honored as being the original words of the Buddha (Pali Canon) and other important texts which we call Sutras. (Audio here)

Practicing with Trauma and Grief – Domyo (03-10-2024)
In addressing a question from a Sangha member, our guiding teacher explains how the Soto Zen lineage addresses past trauma, grief, and pain. She describes this approach from a perspective of profound acceptance and understanding our karma in the peaceful stillness of this moment, without agenda. (Audio here)

Buddha-Nature and Emptiness – Domyo (03-03-2024)
Are awakening to Emptiness and awakening to Buddha-nature similar?
Reality with a capital “R” can be approached from different aspects, of which Emptiness and Buddha-nature are both compared and explored within this expansive conversation between Domyo and Sangha. (Audio here)

Bodhicitta: The First Field of Zen Practice – Domyo (02-25-2024)
Bodhicitta, (which can be translated as  “Way-Seeking Mind” or “Enlightenment Mind”) is our internal searching state which arises in response to fundamental doubt, dissatisfaction with life, and spiritual discontent. It can bring us to Zen practice, and keep that practice going. How do we cultivate and nurture Bodhicitta within us? (Audio here)

What is Zen Practice? – Domyo (02-18-2024)
So what makes Zen so special, anyway? Domyo introduces her newest book in progress – “The Ten Fields of Zen Practice” (working title), in which she describes various different basic aspects of our particular Dharma path. (Audio here)

Teachers in Buddhism – Domyo (02-11-2024)
At our Soto Zen morning chanting service, we chant the lineage to acknowledge and express gratitude for all our teachers along the way, from Shakyamuni Buddha to Roshi Kennett, Domyo’s Dharma grandmother. How can teachers add to and expand your practice? (Audio here)

Nirvana, Bodhisattvas, and Compassion – Domyo (2024-02-04)
In regard to Soto Zen’s characterization of “just sitting”: does Zen have a different perspective than other sects when it comes to the concept of Nirvana? What about “spiritual bypassing” in Zen? How about why the Bodhisattva doesn’t minimize the distress of others, but really listens? How is the teaching of no-self related to compassion? In responding to these questions from the Sangha, our teacher guides us through complex and illuminating points surrounding these topics. (Audio here)

Dharma Questions Part 3 – Domyo (2024-01-28)
Domyo returns to the questions collected from the Sangha, and addresses a few topics: pain during sitting, alternative Zazen postures for those with disabilities, and detaching from strong, afflictive emotions. (Audio here)

Silent Illumination – Domyo (2024-01-21) 
Shikantaza (literally “just sitting”) is central to our Zen practice. But, what does this mean? Are we just sitting there, doing nothing? Domyo explains how this, unlike other forms of meditation, is unique. (Audio here)

Sangha Member Talk: Two Dogen Passages Central to My Practice – James Gregg (2024-01-14)
Sangha Member James briefly introduces Dogen and the profound effect his teachings have on Buddhism in Japan. This entertaining talk and discussion is both wide ranging and goes deep. (Audio here)

One Reality, Many Descriptions Part 4: The Two Truths – Domyo (2024-1-7)
Different fundamental Buddhist teachings (Emptiness, Suchness, Buddha-Nature, Interdependence, Mind with a capital “M”, and Time Being) point toward the same thing: Reality with a capital “R”. There are benefits to understanding these teachings in the process of awakening to and directly experiencing this Reality, which can be perceived as having two aspects: the relative and absolute, or the dependent and the independent dimension. (Audio here)

2023

Dharma Questions Part 2 – Domyo (2023-12-17)
Our guiding teacher continued to answer questions submitted by Sangha members from both Cloud and Dirt zendos. In this talk, she discussed the Buddhist perspective on war, more about the Zen-informed approach to the concept of hope, and gives a demonstration of the practice of Kinhin with additional thoughts shared by those present. (Audio only, here)

Sangha Member Talk: Kanzeon Doesn’t Do Anything – Jinryu (2023-12-10)
In Buddhism, Kanzeon is the face of enlightened compassion. He/she is a Bodhisattva with many names: Guanyin, Kannon, Kanjizai, Avalokiteshvara — and with many aesthetic forms of representation. Jinryu shared her list of the attributes of compassion seen through a Zen Buddhist lens of skillful means. (Audio here)

Questions and Answers – Domyo (2023-12-03)
This Sunday, Domyo asked for questions from the Sangha. Those in the Cloud Zendo were encouraged to submit questions in the chat, while Dirt Zendo participants handed in theirs on note paper. She was able to address a few about the role of hope, ways of being a Bodhisattva, “supernatural” aspects of Buddhism, and reincarnation. The conversation included several Sangha members giving input. Remaining questions can be covered in upcoming talks, or inspire future topics. (Audio here)

Not Knowing is Most Intimate – Domyo (2023-11-26)
As human beings we navigate reality through telling ourselves stories about our world. However, no matter what story we tell ourselves about the current Israel/Palestine conflict, there seems to be no resolution. How does Zen Practice offer us a way to face ambiguity without getting overwhelmed? (Audio here)

Practice is How You Live Each and Every Moment – Domyo (2023-11-12)
If you find that adhering perfectly to the formal aspects of Zen practice is daunting, you’re not alone. The good news is, while forms are meant to support us — the most important aspect is how you live each and every moment. (Audio here)

Thoughts Are NOT the Enemy – Domyo (2023-11-5)
Despite clear zazen instructions from a long lineage of Chan and Zen ancestors, we’re still inclined to think thoughts are the enemy during meditation. After all, we’re not spending our time and energy on zazen just to sit there caught up in the dream of thought just like the rest of the time!
The path to satisfying zazen is not to suppress, cut off, avoid, or even “let go” of thoughts. All of this puts us in opposition to our thoughts, and therefore to part of our present experience.
Instead, satisfying zazen comes from integrating our thoughts – welcoming, embracing, including, and owning them and the concerns and impulses behind them. In doing so, we become bigger than the content of our thoughts. Thoughts are not a problem, and we are not caught up in a dream of thought. (Audio here)

The Value of Ritual – Domyo (2023-10-29)
Rituals take many forms: Our elaborate Sejiki Festival, our zazen, a baseball pitcher’s use of a lucky glove, or our morning coffee with our cat on our lap. In this talk we explore the value of ritual – both as we use it in Zen, and also some of the modern research that shows ritual can help us regulate our emotions and improve the way we function. (Audio here)

Reflections on Busshō: Dōgen’s Essay on Buddha-Nature – Domyo (2023-10-22)
One of Dōgen’s most famous essays points us toward awakening to reality with a capital “R”. Busshō, or Buddha-nature, is one way of describing this Reality. It is an important and very difficult teaching to grasp, and it is possible for each of us to awaken to it. It celebrates the existence of all beings and things without which there would be no awakening. (Audio here)

In Zazen, We Stop Imposing Ourselves On the World and Meet It Instead – Domyo (2023-10-15)
To describe the Soto Zen meditation practice of “Just Sitting”, or Shikantaza, presents a challenge because it is an activity unlike any other. The religious act of not-doing simply evades description. So, what are we doing when we are sitting Zazen? (Audio here)

Responding to the Suffering in the World – Domyo (2023-10-08)
In light of the escalating conflict in Israel and Palestine, how do we respond to the world’s suffering compassionately, responsibly, and authentically? How do we remain aware and concerned without succumbing to anger, overwhelm, anxiety, or depression? What does Buddhism have to offer us in this regard? (Audio here)

Denkoroku: Mahākāśyapa’s Smile – Domyo (2023-10-01)
Continuing her close read of the Denkoroku, Domyo selects from the second chapter of Denkoroku: The Transmission of the Light by Keizan Zenji. The second Koan, or “case”, is about Mahākāśyapa, a remarkable disciple who simply smiled in response to the Buddha’s action of raising a flower. What can this smile mean? (Audio here)

Sangha Member Talk: Zen and Creativity – Leah Jay (2023-09-24)
In this talk, Sangha member Leah explores some similarities between Zen Buddhist practice and creative practices, particularly in the fields of artistic endeavors. How do our creative and spiritual paths intersect? (Audio Here)

Stories of My Teachers – Domyo (2023-09-17)
Our honorary temple founder, Rev. Kyogen Carlson, was a beloved teacher who passed away much too soon (in 2014, at the age of 65). He had unshakeable faith in the Dharma but was down-to-earth, utterly unpretentious, and- at times- gleefully goofy. Kyogen was a radical promoter of full lay empowerment in Soto Zen, encouraging people to “be ordained into their lives.” He was a masterful leader, skillfully taking conversations that would otherwise devolve into pointless debate and gently guiding people toward constructive perspective shifting. (Audio here)

Buddhist Teachings About Environmental Responsibility, Part 1 – Domyo (2023-09-10)
As Buddhists, we can recognize ideas of interdependence, non-separation from all life, non-separation from all manifestations of being, recognition of all things as Buddha-nature, spiritual fulfillment through Bodhisattva practice to all beings, and seeing oneself as in the same boat as all beings. These are central to our practice. Seeing more deeply into the teachings can lead us to call upon the earth to bear witness as the Buddha did. A thoughtful conversation with Sangha follows. (Audio here)

What is the Relationship of Humor and Pleasure to our Practice? – Domyo (2023-09-03)
The Buddha was pretty clear. If you wanted to experience complete liberation, it was best to leave all worldly things behind: Family, sex, alcohol, fancy food, music, entertainment, frivolity, etc. If you happened to attain enlightenment even in the midst of those things, upon liberation you would lose your taste for them.

Why did the Buddha recommend this? Why do fully ordained Buddhist monks and nuns still live this way?

If I could prove to you that complete renunciation would result in your awakening – and that you would live in complete peace and simple, sublime joy for the rest of your days – would you give up your pleasures? Probably not. I haven’t. So where does that leave us in terms of practice? (Audio here)

Sangha Member Talk: Zen Under Capitalism – Coral West (2023-08-27)
Capitalism is the economic system in the United States and has been normalized globally. The essential feature of capitalism is the motive to make a profit. As one examines the precepts and other foundational teachings in Zen, contradictions between participating in capitalism and practicing Zen begin to bubble up to the surface. But we can’t simply walk away from participating in capitalism. Everyone depends on it, in one way or another, to survive. Let us examine the paradoxes between capitalism and Zen and have an open discussion about living in this contradictory world. (Audio here)

Sangha Member Talk: Thoughts on Soto Zen Forms – Shoketsu (2023-08-20)
This talk is about the importance of stillness as we practice, as well as Forms – what are they and why use them. (Audio here)

Sangha Member Talk: Zen and the Sandwich of Family Caregiving – Ellen Tea (2023-08-13)
The “sandwich years.” That’s the term for the period of time when we’re caring for our older parents as well as our children. With a recent diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, my mom needs my help increasingly. How can I directly apply my Zen practice to my caregiving, while anticipating that the hardest parts are yet to come? What principles have I internalized that will be most helpful? (Audio here)

Sangha Member Talk: The Art of Doing Nothing: Effort and Non-Effort in Practice – James Gregg (2023-08-06)
“Do nothing you say? Are you crazy? I’ve got to do SOMETHING!”
Whether we recognize it consciously or not, this is how most of us stumble through our lives, and consequently, keep the engine of samsara chugging along. But why? And what can we do to stop it – or at least pause it for a moment? In this talk, James gives his thoughts on Right Effort along the path, referencing an essay in Kyogen Carlson’s book “You Are Still Here.” (Audio here)

Everything is Optional – Domyo (2023-07-30)
Okay, whether something is optional depends entirely on how you look at it.
Which is, of course, exactly the point.
This Sunday, Domyo explores the value of approaching every thing we do as optional – and, of course, what we really mean when we say something is not optional. At a spiritual (as opposed to a purely practical) level, it has to do with how self-identified we are with a particular activity, result, or state of affairs. (Audio here)

Denkoroku: Shakyamuni’s Eye and All Beings – Domyo (2023-07-23)
In this Dharma talk, Domyo reads from the first chapter of Denkoroku: The Transmission of the Light by Keizan Zenji. “Shakyamuni Buddha, The Awakened One” is the first of this collection of Koans, written in the 13th century. It invites us to openly explore and challenge the ways in which we think about Enlightenment, self, and time – and to ultimately allow it to transform us. (Audio here)

Getting the Self Out Of the Way – Domyo (2023-07-16)
Ever feel frozen to the spot when asked to speak in front of a crowd? When we do things that will be witnessed or measured, such as perform a musical piece, read a poem aloud, play in a tennis match, dance, or give a speech…even areas within our competency can seem challenging. There are ways we can circumvent the discriminating mind, with our practice to guide us. (Audio here)

I, Me, and My-Making – Domyo (2023-07-09)
The Buddha described how we create much of our own misery through our “I, Me, and My-Making.” On top of reality we layer narratives about “I” (the one who perceives, thinks, and acts ), “me” (the one who receives the effects of actions or events outside of ourselves), or “mine” (everything we identify as being part of ourselves, or belonging to us). In this talk, Domyo explores what happens in our minds when we engage in I, Me, and My-Making, and what it means to function in the world without doing so (or, at least, doing much less of it). (Audio here)

Zazen as a Religious Act – Domyo (2023-07-02)
Zazen is central to Zen Buddhist practice. We can use Zazen and other meditation practices for various reasons, but it’s a mistake to think of Zazen only as a means to something else, or as a discipline to be mastered, or as a habit we maintain for our health. It is a profound religious act, that is our deepest most sincere and heartfelt response to the wonder and challenge of life. (Audio here)

Non-Reactivity vs. Healthy Self Defense – Domyo (2023-06-25)
This Sunday’s talk addresses Karma work as it pertains to interpersonal relationships. In the face of conflict, Zen seems to encourage non-reactivity, and yet self-defense or setting boundaries can be appropriate. These two stances seem at odds, but are they? Working on our own reactivity, and responding with clarity, skill, and wisdom, can be tricky. How does our practice guide us to meet these challenges? The topic is explored in further conversation. (Audio here)

Reflections on Dōgen’s Mountains and Waters Sutra – Domyo (2023-06-18)
Thirteenth-century Zen master Dōgen’s prolific writings include the Mountains and Waters Sutra, or “Sansuikyo”. This beloved Zen text is one of the many essays included in the Shōbōgenzō, and can be challenging to understand in translation. What does he mean by “mountains walking”? How can we engage with these passages in an imaginative, playful, curious and respectful way? A thoughtful discussion follows. (Audio here)

The Dharma of Self-Improvement – Domyo (2023-06-11)
Shunryu Suzuki Roshi famously said (approximate paraphrase), “You are all perfect just as you are. And you could use a little improvement.”  There is tension between the practice of radical acceptance and our efforts to keep the precepts, deepen our insight, see through our delusions, and manifest compassion. Or is there? (Audio here)

The Ten Oxherding Pictures as Inspiration for Practice – Domyo (2023-05-28)
The Ten Ox-Herding pictures and associated poems are a Zen teaching dating back to at least the 12th century. They depict “stages” of Zen practice. A teaching about “stages” is inherently tricky – it can easily confuse or discourage us, or cause us to strive or compare ourselves to others (or to our own ideals). We may find such a teaching off-putting and compelling. Domyo talks about how to allow this teaching to inspire your practice and explore your own deepest aspirations – without getting stuck in dualism.  (Audio here)

Sangha Member Talk: Seijo’s Two Souls: The Dharma of Hard Choices – James Gregg (2023-05-21)
Master Goso said “it’s told that Seijo and her soul were separated. Tell me, which was the REAL Seijo?” In this Chinese ghost story, Seijo was faced with a hard choice, and her decision had repercussions far beyond the immediate outcome. How can we use the practice to help us make hard choices? How can the teachings help us land on the “right” choice? In this discussion James uses Seijo’s legend as a parable for those times when life seems to be pulling us in different directions. (Audio here)

Cultivating the Habit of Profound Attention – Domyo (2023-05-14)
Domyo addresses a question: What is the meaning of “cultivating the habit of profound thought”?
Dogen said: “Learn to take the backward step that turns the light and shines it inward.” Domyo re-phrases this idea in order to clarify it further – as cultivating the habit of paying attention as if everything is profound, which comes through deeper self-study and inquiry. A conversation follows with those attending. (Audio here)

Participation, Vow, and Commitment – Domyo (2023-05-07)
In this Dharma talk, Domyo continues to address Dharma questions from Sangha members. In answering the question “What about Sangha members who don’t become Bright Way Zen members or Buddhists?” she clarifies the open, accessible, and entirely voluntary ways to connect at Bright Way Zen. Topics of participation, membership, becoming a Buddhist, and receiving the precepts/Jukai are discussed with the group. (Audio here)

Responding to Dharma Questions – Domyo (2023-04-30)
A couple of Sundays ago, Domyo asked Sangha members to submit questions that had come up for them, and answered a few on that day. Today, she continues addressing these questions and opens the floor to further questions and discussion. What is Mondo? What is Mondo in the context of our ongoing Zen practice? What does Mondo look like during a one-day retreat? What is Shikantaza? How does Shikantaza differ from directed effort practices such as following the breath, sitting with koans, and other deliberate meditation techniques? (Audio here)

Guest Talk: A Brief History of the Buddha and How We Might Relate to His Journey – Thomas Bruner (2023-04-23)
Thomas Bruner, a Dharma Brother to Domyo, is a Senior Lay Disciple at Dharma Rain Zen Center. This is his 6th presentation at Bright Way Zen Center. In this interesting and encouraging talk, Thomas speaks about the historical Shakyamuni Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama. The story of the founder of Buddhism, from youth to his seat under the Bodhi tree is well-known. His human journey, whether taken literally or symbolically, can be explored in relationship to our own lives and spiritual paths. (Audio here)

Dharma Q & A – Domyo (2023-04-16) 
Domyo set aside several minutes at the beginning of this Sunday’s Dharma talk to ask for questions from the Sangha. Those in the Cloud Zendo were encouraged to submit questions in the chat, while Dirt Zendo participants handed in theirs on note paper. She was able to answer a few about the nature of Zen and compassion, and how to talk about Zen Buddhism in your family, who may have differing religious practices. The conversation remained open with many Sangha members giving input. Remaining questions will be addressed in upcoming talks, or inspire future topics. (Audio here)

Eco Anxiety – Domyo (2023-04-09)
Most people have started to notice something is happening to destabilize Earth’s systems. Whether it be having to end our sesshin early due to wildly unseasonable winter weather, watching the heat-stressed trees and crops wither, hearing about record-breaking extreme weather events on the news, to experiencing them and suffering from them personally… it has become increasingly difficult to ignore these changes. How do we find the middle way between denial and despair? How do we respond to the climate and ecological emergency as Zen Buddhists? Domyo invites us to begin by bearing witness. A short discussion follows. (Audio here)

One Reality, Many Descriptions Part III: Buddha-nature – Domyo (2023-04-02)
Domyo continues her three part series with a discussion on Buddha-nature. Why do we end up feeling so alienated from our true nature? Waking up to reality with a capital “R” means understanding this treasure. Buddha-nature, like the precious jewel sewn into the cloak, is already there for us to find. (Audio here)

Sangha and Learning to Belong – Domyo (2023-03-26)
Inspired by experience, Domyo underscores the enduring treasure of Sangha in our practice. In working with and manifesting our insights within the context of our relationships, they can be an expression of the Dharma. Domyo continues by describing how we can find acceptance and belonging in this connection to community. (Audio here)

Forms and Sangha – Domyo (2023-03-19)
This morning, Jinryu, a new Shuso, was installed at Bright Way Zen. The Shuso assists the teacher in managing the zendo and serves as the model of practice for other students, particularly with regard to form: the established ways that we enact practice with our bodies. Domyo talks more about forms in a broader Soto Zen sense as well as at Bright Way Zen: the ways we move, sit, how we place our shoes, bow, use traditional names and enact rituals. (Audio here)

Who Are You When You Lose Your Mind – Domyo (2023-03-12)
When our loved ones or ourselves lose brain function to stroke, dementia, mental illness, or traumatic brain injury, how do we face this frightening, challenging reality?  Inspired by a couple of questions posed online, Domyo talks about how Buddhism describes self and Buddha-nature, and how through a deeper understanding we can meet these challenges with peace and wisdom. A short discussion follows. (Audio here)

Awakening Requires a Strong Sense of Self – Domyo (2023-03-05)
In one of the Dalai Lama’s public talks, he mentioned: “You need a strong sense of self to practice Buddhism.” However, if Buddhism carries forward themes of dismantling the self, how can these two ideas coexist? Domyo engages with the big topic of self, referencing passages from the book “Trust, Realization, and the Self in Sōtō Zen Practice” (by Daijaku Kinst) which illustrate the elements necessary to the development of a coherent sense of self from a psychoanalytic perspective. What does a human being need in order to develop and establish this sense of inner stablity and worth? How does the state of our self-structure affect our ability to engage with and benefit from spiritual practice? This wide ranging topic opened the gates to further conversation. (Audio here)

Dealing with Terrible Things – Domyo (2023-02-26)
What does Buddhist practice have to offer us when it comes to dealing with terrible things? What are we supposed to do when we’re facing challenges in our own life, or witnessing the intense suffering of others?
Today, Domyo presents some Buddhist teachings on finding equanimity and strength while still keeping our minds and hearts open. (Audio here)

One Reality Many Descriptions Pt II – Domyo (2023-02-19)
Domyo on January 8th presented a talk on the reality of emptiness. Today she presents how Buddhism is all about waking up to reality, not about working ourselves into a special state, getting into a different transcendental realm. It is comforting to her that the Buddha taught all things are impermanent. We don’t want them to be thus, so our resistance to this reality causes our suffering. Domyo continues by describing reality recognizing any description is ultimately inadequate. Yet we do the best we can. The descriptions are always a pointing toward aspects of reality. Domyo discusses the many ways we describe those pointers to reality. A heartfelt discussion followed. (Audio here)

Questions and Answers – Domyo (2023-02-12)
Someone asked these questions on the Brightway Website, and Domyo discusses them today:
What does the phrase “Arrows meeting in mid-air” really mean?
What are the differences between Ordinary Thinking (with Our Discriminating Mind), Not Thinking, (the Absence of Thoughts) and Non-Thinking, which is neither Ordinary Thinking nor Not Thinking? A thoughtful discussion follows. (Audio here)

Dharma Friendships – Domyo (2023-02-05)
Famously, the Buddha admonished his disciple Ananda, who asked the Buddha to confirm that “admirable friendship, admirable companionship, admirable camaraderie” was “half of the holy life.”
The Buddha responded:
“Don’t say that, Ananda. Don’t say that. Admirable friendship, admirable companionship, admirable camaraderie is actually the whole of the holy life.”
This Sunday, Domyo talked about what Dharma friendship means, why it’s so valuable, and how to find and form Dharma friendships. (Audio here)

Coming Up With Spiritual Questions and Why They Matter – Domyo – (2023-01-29)
Domyo introduces this very rich topic today, which grows out of the questions about questions she receives from the members of the Sangha in Dharma Interviews. She addresses why spiritual questions arise and why they matter to our practice, even if you are witholding them within. She begins with the “Edge of Your Practice”, defining and explaining it. Continuing through the types of questions that arise, she describes the qualities of our Practice and how they affect the questions and the answers. An engaging Talk which she might well expand into a full-blown Podcast series of episodes. A short discussion follows. (Audio here)

Sangha Member Talk: “Dissatisfaction” from You Are Still Here,  The Zen Teachings of Kyogen Carlson – Jinryu – (2023-01-22)
Guest teacher Jinryu, delves into this chapter explaining and illustrating the meanings in Kyogen’s teachings. An intriguing Talk with discussion follows. (Audio here)

“Small Self” and the Many Ways It Can Hijack Your Practice – Domyo – (2023-01-15)
This Sunday, Domyo discuss what we mean by “small self,” and then describes the many ways this phenomenon can hijack or obstruct our spiritual practice. It’s important to recognize when self-centered agendas creep into our practice and inspire things like spiritual materialism, ambition, self-criticism, resignation, and limiting narratives. (Audio here)

Buddhism’s Fundamental Point: One Reality, Many Descriptions – Part 1 – Domyo (2023-01-08)
Do Buddhist teachings ever seem repetitive? It’s because they are! Fundamentally, Buddhism and Zen point us toward waking up to Reality. When we see Reality clearly and live our lives in accord with it, we are liberated from fear, suffering, and existential dissatisfaction. We can function freely as bodhisattvas, motivated by compassion and generosity.

The trouble is, we have constructed a mental map of the world which ends up obscuring our vision and entangling us in harmful delusions. In their efforts to snap us out of our self-centered dream and let us see the Reality we are part of, our Dharma ancestors have offered many words, including Emptiness (shunyata), Buddha-Nature (buddhata), Suchness (tathata), and Mind (not the discriminating mind).

In this, Part 1 of a series on these concepts, Domyo discusses Emptiness. While these teachings can be challenging, she will always make an effort to connect them to our personal experience and everyday practice. (Audio here)

<<  These below are not active. We are working to repair them. Thanks  >>

Beyond Mindfulness: The Radical Practice of Unified Self – Domyo – 8-7-16 Domyo presents an alternative to mindfulness practice that she calls, for now, the “Radical Practice of Unified Self (or Presence).” She offers this because she believes the concept of mindfulness – at least the way it is typically understood – can limit our spiritual development. It can become a dualistic trap that causes us to reject much of what we are as human beings… She also says, “Before I explain, I want to state that I think it is essential that we start our practice with mindfulness. We also benefit from returning to that practice again and again over the course of our days and lives. What I’m going to talk about here is how we move beyond mindfulness and avoid (or drag ourselves out of) the potential pitfalls of the practice. I discovered these pitfalls by falling into them, so, in part, this is a confession of my own struggles with mindfulness…” Reconciling the Absolute and the Relative in Your Life – Domyo – 2015-02-15 Most of us experience the relative nature of our life more or less as default. This is the realm of duality: large and small, correct and incorrect, self and other. The relative is where we function, and this functioning requires discernment and attention to cause and effect. The absolute is the reality of our direct experience right here, right now, free of any conceptualization whatsoever. Experienced directly, everything is simply thus – inexplicably precious, luminous, and complete. Becoming personally intimate with the absolute nature of life is an essential step in our Zen practice. The absolute and relative are not just complex spiritual concepts. They are at the center of every pressing human question, from the personal to the global. Keeping Vows And Resolutions – Domyo – 1-5-14 Whether our intention is to meditate more, get in shape, manage our time better, keep in touch with family, or be more generous, it is useful to clarify and state our intention in terms of a vow or resolution. But why is it vows or resolutions are so often forgotten or broken? What can we do to help ourselves maintain them? How can we carefully craft our vows so they are doable but still inspiring? How can a vow reflect our deepest aspiration, instead of being a thinly veiled rejection of part of ourselves? Four Elements Of A Bodhisattva’s Social Relations – Domyo – 12-22-13 Dogen Zenji wrote “Four Elements of a Bodhisattva’s Social Relations” in 1243, but it is still very relevant today. A Bodhisattva is an “enlightening being” – one who continues to enlighten her or himself, and works to support others on their path to awakening. According to Dogen, a Bodhisattva does this through 1) free giving; 2) kind speech; 3) helpful conduct, and 4) cooperation. Change Without Violence – Domyo – 12-15-13 How do we identify things we want to change in our lives and in ourselves without indulging in subtle rejection, which breaks the precept “do not kill”? The Noble Eightfold Path – 11/10/2013 We don’t talk about the Eightfold Path very often in Zen, but Zen includes all the same elements – we just refer to them a little differently, or assume they are part of our practice. It can be useful to hear the Dharma phrased and described in different ways – sometimes something sinks in because we hear it for the first time in a new way. The Eightfold Noble Path: Right view/understanding/knowing, Right resolve/intention, Right speech, Right action, Right livelihood, Right effort, Right mindfulness, Right concentration The Four Divine Abidings – 11/3/2013 The Four Divine Abidings, or the Four Immeasurables, are an ancient Buddhist teaching on peaceful and intimate relationship – with other beings, and with everything. They are loving-kindness (metta), compassion (karuna), empathetic joy (mudita) and equanimity (upekkha). Inviting Our Ghosts to Be Present with Us – 10/27/2013 In the fall, Zen Buddhists celebrate the Segaki festival, or the festival of the hungry ghosts. “Ghosts” can be the persistent and troubling memories of people we have lost, but ghosts can also be unresolved karma of other kinds. It is very tempting to avoid or repress our ghosts, so during Segaki we consciously invite them to be present with us for a while. This allows us to remember and acknowledge them, learn from them, and maybe even take a step toward the resolution that will allow them to leave us in peace. (In this talk we read an article on Segaki aloud, written by Kyogen Carlson, which can be found here: http://dharma-rain.org/on-segaki/) Bringing All of Our Selves Together A “self” is way we manifest at particularly times, in particular situations. A self is always changing, but it does have some continuity in terms of tendencies, energies and habits of thought. Using this manner of speaking, you have lots of “selves:” a parental self, a child self, a politically righteous self, a sad, discouraged self, an angry self, a teacher self, a daydreamy self, a greedy self… We need all of our selves to participate in Zen practice. We may hope to exclude, reform or banish some of our selves, but it’s not going to work. Any self that we fight will only fight back, and prevent us from finding any peace in our practice. Instead, we need to gently and respectfully encourage each self to participate in practice. The more “selves” we get together on the cushion, the more energy and motivation we have for practice. Stages of Practice When You’re Going Nowhere With no clear course of training and no external affirmations of whether we are doing it right, progressing, or achieving anything, how can we maintain our focus and motivation in Zen practice? In Zen we are taught to give up petty ideas about attainment and to realize there is no place to go other than right here. In essence, we are asked to patiently and diligently apply ourselves to a demanding and repetitive practice, and… well, that’s it. There’s nobility in this kind of goalless patience and diligence, but how realistic is it to expect it from Zen practitioners who don’t have their black belts yet? After all, goallessness is a goal, not something that comes easily (unless you are actually just uninspired). Not Needing to Have an Opinion It’s rather amazing, but it possible to experience something without having to judge it, evaluate it, or form an opinion about it. Instead, you rest in don’t-know mind – leaving you more receptive and objective.