“Taking refuge in sangha is taking refuge in diversity—diversity inside and diversity in the world.”

We share this profound and tender opening dharma talk from our recent Summer Commit to Sit in honor of our upcoming Commit to Sit starting January 22nd.

In it, Koshin Sensei opens the 90-day practice period by weaving timeless teachings from Buddha’s era into the challenges and opportunities of modern life. From the joy of shared meditation to reflections on suffering, impermanence, and interconnectedness, this talk is both deeply moving and lighthearted—featuring everything from Carl Sagan’s “Pale Blue Dot” to a humorous nod to Schitt’s Creek.

He also explores how to “take refuge” in the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha, inviting us to embrace both our fears and joys, our personal stories, and the vastness of the universe.

With reflections on love, death, and the enduring power of community, we are invited to live fully, practice deeply, and fold everything—suffering, diversity, and awe—into the richness of life.

Koshin Paley Ellison Sensei is a Zen teacher, Jungian psychotherapist, leader in contemplative care, and co-founder of an educational non-profit called the New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care. His books, grounded in Buddhist wisdom and practice, have gained national attention. Through its numerous educational programs, contemplative retreats, and Soto Zen Buddhist practices, the New York Zen Center touches thousands of lives every year.

Heart Sutra by Kanho Yakushiji –  Buddhist priest and musician of the Rinzai sect and Imaji temple in Imabari, Japan. In 2003, he formed “KISSAQUO”, a songwriting duo based in Kyoto.

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The post The Great Challenge of Sangha | Koshin Paley Ellison appeared first on New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care.