Bernie Glassman is well-known throughout the world as a pioneer in socially-engaged Buddhism and founder of the Zen Peacemakers. He also co-wrote a book called The Dude and the Zen Master with academy-award winning actor Jeff Bridges.

In this episode of A Congruent Life, Bernie discusses the role of social engagement in Zen, holding opinions rather than truths, the impact of street retreats in New York City, healing work at Auschwitz, Rwanda, and Israel, and his relationship with Jeff Bridges.

Bernie's books

The Dude and the Zen Master

The Hazy Moon of Enlightenment

Infinite Circle: Teachings in Zen

On Zen Practice: Body, Breath, and Mind

Bearing Witness: A Zen Master's Lessons in Making Peace

Instructions to the Cook: A Zen Master's Lessons in Living a Life That Matters

Links

Zen Peacemakers

Bernie Glassman page on Facebook

Joe Reilly is a singer, songwriter, and educator who invites us to heal relationships, bring people together, and build community though his joyful and playful music.

In this episode of A Congruent Life, Joe shares the physical and spiritual journey behind his latest album, Greyhound Bus Tour, when he crossed the United States by bus to play in locations ranging from subway stations to the White House.  In addition to sharing a track from the album and talking about the story behind it, we also discuss how Joe dealt with fear, what he learned from "failure," and the roots and aspirations for his music.

Joe's Music

Greyhound Bus Tour (2013)

Hello Ocean EP (2012)

Let's Go Outside (2011)

Touch the Earth (2009)

Children of the Earth (2007)

Planting Gardens (2006)

Beyond My Control (2004)

Mothers and Daughters (2001)

Links

joereilly.org

Joe Reilly on Earthwork Music

Timber Hawkeye offers a non-sectarian approach to being at peace with the world, and wrote a popular book titled Buddhist Boot Camp to make Buddhist principles simple and accessible.  In this A Congruent Life conversation, Timber talks about the evolution of the book and the corresponding online community.

Links

Buddhist Boot Camp book on Amazon.com (affiliate link)

Buddhist Boot Camp website

Buddhist Boot Camp on Facebook

Christine Valters Paintner is a writer, contemplative, and the online Abbess of Abbey of the Arts.  In her latest book, Eyes of the Heart, she challenges us to 'receive images' instead of 'take pictures.'

In this episode of A Congruent Life, Christine shares profoundly about 'following the thread,' pilgrimage, and vulnerability.

Christine's books

Eyes of the Heart: Photography as a Christian Contemplative Practice

Desert Fathers and Mothers: Early Christian Wisdom Sayings, Annotated & Explained

Lectio Divina--The Sacred Art: Transforming Words and Images into Heart-centered Prayer

The Artist's Rule: Nurturing Your Creative Soul with Monastic Wisdom

Water, Wind, Earth and Fire: The Christian Practice of Praying with the Elements

Awakening the Creative Spirit: Bringing the Arts to Spiritual Direction

Links

Abbey of the Arts

Monk Manifesto

Way of the Monk, Path of the Artist online course. Use discount code "Abbey20" for a $20 discount when registering - thanks, Christine!

Christi Bruchok and Tauru Chaw are riding a tandem bicycle 16,000 miles from the southern tip of Argentina to the northern tip of Alaska -- and just happen to be legally blind.

Links

Two Blind To Ride website

Two Blind To Ride on Facebook

Two Blind To Ride on Twitter

Warm Showers

Brian Doyle is a "storycatcher," the editor of Portland Magazine, and award-winning author of thirteen books spanning many genres, including the award-winning novel Mink River and story collections named Grace Notes and Bin Laden's Bald Spot.

In this episode of A Congruent Life, Brian shares his reflections about the power of story, humor, and joy, and tells of a surprise casual encounter he had with the Dalai Lama.

Some of Brian's Books

Grace Notes

Mink River

Bin Laden's Bald Spot and Other Stories

The Grail

The Wet Engine: Exploring Mad Wild Miracle of Heart

Spirited Men: Story, Soul and Substance

Links

Portland Magazine

Mink River Facebook page