REGISTER

For the past few weeks, we have shone light on meditation practice. We’ve noticed how we can lean into vast presence to embrace the mystery. This attention is deep and wide, welcoming of all, without judgment or needing to fix. As we lean into practice, we do so “not knowing,” without prejudice or strong opinion, trusting the universe, and willing to be surprised about what shows up.

And then, “Just this is it.” Leading with not-knowing rather than knowing, we can appreciate each thing as it is, not as we imagine it to be, or as it has been explained to us, say, in a textbook.

We can feel the cool scales of a snake, put our hands into a bucket filled with water, or as Dongshan does as he leaves his teacher, we might see our reflection in that bucket or stream, and wake up. Each thing as it is participates in and shines with the light of presence.

As the heart opens, we might echo Yunyan’s, “Just this is it!”

Here’s the koan:

After practicing with his teacher, Yunyan, it came time for Dongshan to depart. 
Yunyan said, “If you leave, it will be difficult to see one another again.” 
Dongshan said, “It will be difficult not to see one another.”
Then, as he was leaving, Dongshan asked, “Later on, when I am asked to describe your teaching, what should I say?” 
Yunyan paused, then said, “Just this is it.”
Dongshan was pondering this when Yunyan said, “Now that you have taken on this great matter, you must consider it carefully.”
Dongshan continued on, still in doubt. Later, as he crossed a stream, Dongshan saw his reflection in the water, and was awakened to Yunyan’s meaning. He composed this verse:

Just don’t seek from others, or you’ll be estranged from self. 
I now go on alone, everywhere I meet it. 
It now is me; I am not it.
One must understand in this way to merge with suchness.

 

Come join us Thursday at 4pm PDT, for koan meditation, a dharma talk, and conversation. Register to participate. All are welcome.

I hope you will join us.

—David Parks Roshi, Director of Bluegrass Zen