PZI Teacher Archives

poet - Tony Hoagland

Video July 12, 2022

We Are What Is Missing from the World

Tess Beasley

Tess reads Tony Hoagland’s poem, “The Question,” on creation and loosening of the self, during her talk in Summer Sesshin, June 15, 2022. 3 minutes.

2' 32"
Text September 28, 2020

Following the Scent of Flowers

John Tarrant

There’s a spaciousness inside all situations. We’re walking through them, and underneath our feet there’s space and light, and around us. And we’re walking through that space and light. That, then, is the source of empathy and love. And we accompany each other—and we don’t have to take ourselves or each other so seriously.

6840 Words
Audio June 1, 2020

I Vow to Set Endless Heartache to Rest: Chan Stories and the Zhuangzi

John Tarrant

John Tarrant talks about Chan’s encounter with Daoism and the Zhuangzi, replete with strange characters like “Crooked Carriage” and his friends. Chan took on their difficult times with stories and koans. Upheaval from Covid quarantine, riots over racism—koan meditation is a vessel for our times. Who’s concerned about the world? Who’s sad? We are in it together, so let’s vow to set endless heartache to rest. Koans and stories are ancient vials of light that help us now. PZI Zen Online, as recorded May 31, 2020.

90' 58"