Original Mind Zen

Zen uses a unique approach to practice and life--doubt. Great doubt means inquiring into every moment with curiosity, openness, and wonder.

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.

Guest Dharma talk delivered by Original Mind Zen Sangha student, Jonson Miller.

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.

Even though we might deny it, or not even realize it, we often think that we're going to get something from Buddhist practice. Maybe it's more patience, compassion, or just lower blood pressure. In this talk, Doshim explains how subtle expectations of gain (or loss) can cause just as much unhappiness as the habits we are trying to rid ourselves of.

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.

In this guest Dharma talk, Jonson Miller explains how the world religions are both similar and different.

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.

Zen practice ultimately boils down to this question, "How do I want to live?" It stresses clarity, attention, and a commitment to be honest--both to others and oneself.

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.

In this off-beat talk commemorating the Buddha's Enlightenment Day, Doshim explains how any ideology can be manipulated to suit the ends of fanatics. Today, Islam is being vilified while Buddhism is often viewed as peaceful; however, Buddhism was co-opted by the Japanese during World War II to commit horrible acts of violence. In fact, the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on the Buddha's Enlightenment Day because they thought that it was an auspicious day to start a war! Beware overgeneralizing--it's not that different from the very dogmatism it tries to condemn.

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.

The cornerstone of meditation is stopping our physical and mental activity to concentrate on our breathing. From this emerges peace and freedom. In this Dharma talk, Doshim discusses the importance of applying that same clarity and spaciousness in our daily lives.

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.

The mind is like a vortex that sucks us inside at every opportunity it gets. Zen practice pulls us out of the quagmire of thoughts and back to the present moment. "Stay here, now," Zen insists. Reality is never hidden; we simply have to see through the screen of our thoughts and return to our lives here and now.

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.