Episode Description: This talk, the first during our spring sesshin, introduces the Koan Mu and addresses the challenges that arise during a first sesshin. Henry compares zen practice to musical instrument practice with a lively story about his old trombone teacher, Jack Pinches. He also recounts the difficulties and rewards of his own first sesshin. Henry emphasizes the importance of diligent practice and explains how to sit with Mu while allowing it to absorb our inner commentary so we may gradually come face to face with our entrenched sense of self.

Image Credit: Meditation, Mahamudra, by Hartwig HKD, CC BY-ND 2.0.

Featured Image Credit: Playing the gayageum, by Republic of Korea, CC BY-SA 2.0