“Showing their backs then their fronts – falling maple leafs.”  ~ Ryokan

“Resolving the matter of Life and death is of prime importance.” To explore this phrase which is recited at the close of Zen Sesshins, Valerie turns to Dogen’s Genjokoan and digs into two truths, conventional and absolute, which are actually one truth. Dogen believes that in Zazen, we are practicing realizing, “ripening the sweet milk of the long rivers.” The entire Genjokoan essay funnels into this single phrase which perfectly expresses the two fold truth that shows up in every koan.

And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.

Also, check out our Upcoming Events:

Original Love: Awakening: Ultimate Healing a six part series, starts Sunday October 9.  Details and registration here.

Zazenkai, a Day of Zen led by Valerie Forstman. Saturday October 15, Register here