Re: Za-Zen

Posted by qOLOp on 1138210660

Oh My Zan,

A long post...

We have had the delightful opportunity to discuss this in private and I know I promised to be more outward in our talks with others, so I am keeping that promise today.

Yes, I am a practitioner of zazan and have been for more than 15 years. A beginner at best. I am reminded of this humbly when I visit with the monks who visit our area each year who have masterd it so well. Yet I do not give up. I learn by their example and continue onward.

When I was teaching Martial Arts and had 12 hours a day to devote to such practice, it was easy to live in this state.

Yet as the world called me to outside resposnsiblities, raising 10 children, another choice. I placed my spiritual practices and meditation priorities outside of my spiritual practice more than I am happy to report. I am down to a mere hour a day at this time. This seems to me a huge change. I know though every moment is an opportunity to enter the correct state and I choose them as frequently as I can, knowing one day I can choose differently once again.

Here is my story...I began the practice sitting for long periods of time.

My mind was undisciplined and wandering thoughts seemed to rule my practice for months. Then it began to happen. I did not give up or give in.

I showed great tenacity every day of the week. Many others shook their heads. I didn't let this sway me or my dedication to such a practice.

I took the sitting to Tai Chi walking and would walk around and around the training hall for endless hours. To test my focus and alertness my Master Teacher carried a bamboo stick, which he would just out of the blue come up and attempt to strike practicing students with. Once I was hit. Perhaps my eyes had closed or I was daydreaming. I do not remember. Never again. I am a quick study it turns out. I hated to be struck!Yes, it does leave a mark both outwardly and a deep spiritual one as well! It was a lesson not to be easily forgotten.

From the training floor my Master sent me to the woods, which I adored. I came alive in many ways. I began practicing by daylight and later by moonlight. Later as a teacher myself I would train others in this way. As my practice continued, my senses awakened to even deeper levels than ever before. One day it was just the way. The natural way. It has remained with me, a part of my inner practice ever since.

Please consider meditation in your daily lives...
It makes such a difference.

Love and Gratitude,
suzyq