Upaya Zen Center's Dharma Podcast

Sensei Kozan Palevsky gives a Thanksgiving dharma talk about gratitude and the first paramita of generosity. He tells the harrowing story of Buddha offering his life to a starving tiger, and asks us to consider what we would generously offer our lives for. Kozan reminds us that we do not become Buddhas alone but with and through each other.

Source

In this Wednesday night Dharma talk, Sensei Genzan brings his whole self to a mesmerizing and deeply heartfelt exploration of the Dharma. Reflecting on the nature of winter, Genzan invites us to ponder questions we rarely ask, encouraging a fresh perspective on the season’s quiet beauty and challenges. Drawing on the rich symbolism of winter in Zen Buddhism, he unwraps layers of Dogen’s poetry to…

Source

This is a continuation of the final session of the Awakened Action series, where … the faculty share their final thoughts on the themes explored throughout the program. They discuss the importance of using intergenerational connections, civil disobedience, and environmental activism in creating a just and compassionate society, emphasizing how these actions shape a collective future.

Source

In the final session of the Awakened Action series, the faculty share their final thoughts on the themes explored throughout the program. They discuss the importance of using intergenerational connections, civil disobedience, and environmental activism in creating a just and compassionate society, emphasizing how these actions shape a collective future. Personal stories from participants are…

Source

In Part 7 of the Awakened Action series, Christiana Figueres opens with a poignant reflection on the world her grandchild is entering. Grappling with this question, she recalls the teaching of “grandmother’s heart”—a heart rooted in deep compassion and equanimity, balanced in the face of both joy and suffering. The conversation continues with Roshi Joan, who explores the wisdom and resolve of…

Source

In Part 6 of the Awakened Action series, Rebecca Solnit reflects on her experiences with trees, the role of joy in activism, and the complexity of human nature. She highlights the importance of balancing struggle with the pursuit of beauty, joy, and abundance, as well as the importance of preserving natural wonders for future generations. Rebecca shares a vibrant and inspiring narrative about…

Source

In Part 5 of the Awakened Action series, Terry Williams recounts the deeply personal and transformative stories of navigating family tensions, cultural expectations, and environmental crises. Through reflections on conversations with her father about vulnerability and the line between public and private truths, Terry explores the challenges of grieving authentically and honoring sacred family…

Source

In Part 4 of the Awakened Action Series, Rebecca Solnit continues the theme of the importance of storytelling. Rebecca discusses the role stories have in shaping our perceptions and actions, with a particular emphasis on challenging limiting narratives and promoting stories of bravery, kindness, and trust. This session also touches on the concept of abundance, the need for environmental education…

Source

In Part 3 of the Awakened Action series, Roshi Joan Halifax and Terry Williams bring their depth and sincerity to bear. They explore the profound interconnection between social and environmental responsibility, contemplative practice, and storytelling. Weaving together historical, legendary, and archetypal perspectives on the Buddha’s life, this session highlights themes of interdependence, care…

Source

In Part 2 of the Awakened Action series, faculty members Roshi Joan, Valerie Brown, Rebecca Solnit, and Terry Williams explore the power of embracing interdependence, hope, and agency in uncertain times. They critique consumer culture’s focus on individual comfort and ease, advocating for a deeper, more connected sense of self grounded in meaning, purpose, and collective action.

Source