We trace the rhythms of life: the autumnal stripping away and descent into winter’s barren dark, the coming forth of spring with its life-blessing rain, the rising of bud and bloom, the advent of color, the humming of insects and call of geese coming home, and my thoughts and feelings. Each moment comes forth and falls away and it is all Dragon—never settled, always in flux, the perpetual change, each moment new.

To live in the rhythm of Dragon’s dance, to fly with the shuttle of life’s generative weave, is to come home, to find peace in the “endless changes,” the never-ending transformation. Enter meditation, the practice of Dragon’s realm. I am asked by strangers and friends how to meditate, of expedient ways to fix and have a better life.

This is where we meet Nanquan, Zhaozhou’s teacher, as he bears witness to the step, and glide of Dragons, always changing, connected and unpredictable:

When Zen master Nanquan Puyuan ascended the dharma seat in the hall, the official Lu Geng said,
“We invite the master to expound the Dharma for the sake of beings.”
Nanquan: “What would you have me say?”
Lu Geng: Can the master offer no expedient method to enter the Way?”
Nanquan: What do you say is lacking?”
Lu Geng:”Why are there six realms and four modes of birth?”
Nanquan: “I don’t teach that.” 

Join us as we enter Nanquan’s world, your world, as we consider the official’s request  as it echoes in our own hearts, and Nanquan’s response that leaves us with nothing but right here and right now—our lives as they are.

I look forward to seeing you on Thuresday.

Join us.

—David Parks

COME JOIN US on Thursdays for koan meditation, dharma talk and conversation. All are welcome. Register to participate.

David Parks Roshi, Director of Bluegrass Zen