Day 24: One Blade of Grass. Zazen

 


Once upon a time the World Honored One was walking with gods and devas and humans, when he paused. He pointed to the ground and said, “this is a suitable site to build a temple.” The god Indra then plucked a blade of grass from nearby, and stuck it into the ground at the spot where the Buddha had pointed. Indra declared, “The temple is built!” The World Honored One smiled.

Last year I visited our public library and while browsing the new books I came across Henry Shukman's book One Blade of Grass. I passed over it a few times until I finally relented and took it home. Mr. Shukman has a wonderful way with words, as he describes his difficult life and discovery of Zen meditation. It made me curious about Zen.

Zen is a very strict practice. The New York Zen Center was conducting a sesshin at Garrison Institute when we were there for another program. It was like spiritual boot camp, and fascinating to watch. There isn't anything about Zen that appeals to my everyday mind. It's a long training, hard, painful, and austere that requires a teacher. Yet, the form piques my curiosity, so I am including it here.

The basic practice, which we will try today, is to sit, lotus position, on cushions facing a blank wall. Eyes are open. That's it. There is really very little instruction for Zazen other than sit down. If you are willing, sit Zazen style if you can, if not sit in a chair with your back straight. Let's sit for 20 minutes and see how we do. Remember eyes are open facing a blank wall.

If you are interested in diving deeper, visit a local Zen Center. I am told it is a powerful practice if you are willing to put in the work.

Four more days. We are in the homestretch. Keep going. ❤️

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