"Embracing the Present: Letting Go of Stories and Finding Compassion"

In today’s episode, Sensei Michael Brunner offers a powerful teisho based on Shoyoroku Case 14, "Attendant Kaku Serves Tea." Through this ancient Zen encounter, Sensei explores the core teaching of letting go of our habitual stories, judgments, and expectations to embrace the clarity of the present moment.

Key insights include:

• The practice of bearing witness to our lives without the filters of the small self
• The dynamic exchange between teacher and student as a mirror for wisdom
• How compassion naturally arises from emptiness and present-moment awareness
• Practical reflections on how we can drop preconceived notions in our daily lives and respond to suffering with compassion

This episode encourages listeners to let go of their clinging to stories and to embody compassion in the simplicity of each moment. Whether you're new to Zen practice or have years of experience, this talk will offer fresh perspectives on living with greater awareness.

Resources:

• Explore Shoyoroku Case 14: "Attendant Kaku Serves Tea"
• More talks and resources from One River Zen: oneriverzen.org

Learn more, study with us, and meditate online at oneriverzen.org.