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On May 13 2020 Russel Brown passed away, and he will be missed. Russel's life was difficult, yet he maintained an open heart. Russell was moved to help incarcerated men and women overcome the barriers which lead many to recidivism. Over the past year, Russell was organizing a support system to bring his vision into a concrete reality. Russel Brown was ordained posthumously and given the dharma name Daiken (Great Courage).
White Ashes
Now, if we look realistically at the nature of human life, we see that it is fleeting and unpredictable, illusive almost. Birth, life and death pass by in the twinkling of an eye. Thus we never hear of the human body lasting for ten thousand years.
And who today can keep the body young and healthy for even one hundred years? Yes, how quickly our lives slip away. Whether I am the first or someone else, whether today or tomorrow, our lives on earth do indeed one day come to an end. Life seems to vanish unseen like ground water, or to evaporate like the morning dew on the summer lawn.
Thus our bodies may be radiant with health in the morning, but by evening they may be white ashes. If the right causes and conditions prevail, our two eyes are closed forever, our breathing ceases and our bodies lose the glow of life. Our relatives in great numbers and with great wealth can assemble, but they are powerless to change our situation. Even the rites and rituals of grief and mourning change nothing. All we can do is prepare the body for cremation; all that is left is white ashes.
In view of these facts, does it not make sense to focus on the things we can change? We cannot control the passing away of both young and old alike, but each of us can take refuge in the [Buddha, Dharma and Sangha]...
With friendly reverence, I remain,
Rennyo (1414-1499)
![On May 13 2020 Russel Brown passed away, and he will be missed. Russels life was difficult, yet he maintained an open heart. Russell was moved to help incarcerated men and women overcome the barriers which lead many to recidivism. Over the past year, Russell was organizing a support system to bring his vision into a concrete reality. Russel Brown was ordained posthumously and given the dharma name Daiken (Great Courage).
White Ashes
Now, if we look realistically at the nature of human life, we see that it is fleeting and unpredictable, illusive almost. Birth, life and death pass by in the twinkling of an eye. Thus we never hear of the human body lasting for ten thousand years.
And who today can keep the body young and healthy for even one hundred years? Yes, how quickly our lives slip away. Whether I am the first or someone else, whether today or tomorrow, our lives on earth do indeed one day come to an end. Life seems to vanish unseen like ground water, or to evaporate like the morning dew on the summer lawn.
Thus our bodies may be radiant with health in the morning, but by evening they may be white ashes. If the right causes and conditions prevail, our two eyes are closed forever, our breathing ceases and our bodies lose the glow of life. Our relatives in great numbers and with great wealth can assemble, but they are powerless to change our situation. Even the rites and rituals of grief and mourning change nothing. All we can do is prepare the body for cremation; all that is left is white ashes.
In view of these facts, does it not make sense to focus on the things we can change? We cannot control the passing away of both young and old alike, but each of us can take refuge in the [Buddha, Dharma and Sangha]...
With friendly reverence, I remain,
Rennyo (1414-1499)](https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/s720x720/97826559_2901250739992041_697049063014531072_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&_nc_sid=110474&_nc_ohc=TY_9lzvvd8EAX-bGFIJ&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.xx&_nc_tp=7&oh=a063e79626317448b90f61f4a92e24c4&oe=5EF2AE72)
Thank you so much for the beautiful words for my husband. He had so many things he was trying to accomplish, he was needed elsewhere. Till we meet again.
The zendo was scheduled to re-open on May 8th. It now looks like it may be towards the end of May due to my hospitalization. Please check back on May 20th for an update.
be well - stay at home order was continued till June 4th by the goveror
Wishing you good health.
Get well soon.
It comes bubbling up. With time and stillness many of the subtle issues we confront in our daily lives reveal themselves to us. Like a pressure cooker that must must let off some steam, so must we. Simmering conflict is always just underneath the surface. No need to worry, thks is okay and you are okay. Actually this is a great time for us to work on these issues whether they are personal or part of a relationship.
Just like that new paint, yard work or spring cleaning, we can all add these troubling issues to our "to-do" list. We can utilize this time to not just spruce up our living space but, to spruce up the quality of our "living". We can plant the seeds of change and nurture them daily, reaping the beauty they create as they bloom.
Lets get started. Try sitting alone and journal some of the uncomfortable feelings and thoughts which have visited you. Now you can see them clearly before you. Ponder them in stillness and decide which need to be addressed first. After choosing one, take the time needed to really understand the issue. You can once again journal it by writing down any details or emotions you may encounter while pondering it. Whether your project includes just you or a partner, create a time that you can dedicate to yourself/one another. Discuss what you have written down with each other and allow each other some time to process what you have shared. When meeting again, take turns speaking. Agree to a clear border of sharing, no interrupting, no debating, and no arguing. Open yourself to what is being said, don't work out your disagreements or counter points. Lets go of your reactions and just listen with heart and mind. Ponder how you can relate, not how you see things differently. Work together and encourage each other to be honest. When clarity is realized, create concrete steps that you both can agree upon; write them down. Sometimes a task looks to big but, breaking it down makes it a little more approachable. Place your "steps" in a visable but, private area to remind you of the work at hand.
Agree upon an outcome. Clarify what each of you hope for, and create a co-vision, something you both believe would strengthen your relationship and bring you both happiness. Having a goal at hand creates something to work towards, something concrete and tangible. Most of all, be patient and loving. Try to remember everyone is doing their best, and noone is perfect. We all have our own personal quirks and deficits. It is only natural that these will arise and be more apparent to one another under these circumstances. With this being said, lets take this tragic situation and try to create something better, not just for us but, other family and friends. A better "us". Split your time between some "house" maintenance and some "home" maintenance. As they say, "Home is where the heart is", so take care of each other, and make your home a place of refuge.
On May 8th the temple will open. We will keep the city zendo closed and begin sitting bi-weekly in Bushkill. When our "friends' decide to reopen, we will begin sitting weekly in Bethlehem again. Private students will also begin meeting on May 8th at the temple.
We never know what each day may bring. We hear the bell and begin our day. Some mornings are rough and we drag ourselves out of bed. Other days we are awake before the bell rings and excited to begin our day. No matter how our day begins, we press on.
The bad days cause suffering and anxiety, we grasp at change, we fight each moment attempting to force change. In doing this, we water the seeds of our own discontent and suffering. Anger soon follows which triggers the bloom of samara. Our world now is small, disconnected and dark, a "bad day".
We all can remember making that infamous statement, "I had a bad day, I just want it over!" Our world becomes narrow and small. There is no room for others and nothing to give. Our knees buckle by the weight, and we struggle to confront the world before us.
Sometimes it is feels impossible to face the world before us. It becomes too daunting of a task. Every step feels odd, unsure and clumsy. In contrast, instead of struggling, what would it be like to open moment to moment?
To open to the ocean of now, and relinquish control as you ebb and flow with the waves of phenomena. Desolving fully and laying down the burden.
One of the fruits of zen practice is the ability to see the beauty and perfection that stands before us, as it is. Limitless and open, the universe is not entangled by preference. It manifests in accord with karma, not self interest. Folding into the universe, desolving within the "way" - what is it to say, "Everyday is a good day"? How do we respond to those bad days as they wash over us? How do we find humor and freedom within adversity. These questions I will leave you to explore. I hope today is a good day for you all.
Calendar
Students who are new to Zen Practice should arrive fifteen minutes early for meditation instructions. Blue Mountain Zendo does offer cushion sets; however, it is a good idea to obtain a personal set if possible, or contact the zendo to let them know you will need a set to use. Having your own set will allow you the opportunity to sit both with the sangha (group) as well as alone when at home or work, however, please ask for the appropriate color and size before ordering. Also to note, if you cannot sit on the floor due to a medical condition, chairs are available. If done correctly, sitting in a chair is no different than sitting on the floor.
An offering is traditional for those visiting for the first time. This offering is symbolic of the “open” and “giving” nature of the new student and his/her recognition of the value of the teachings.
During Zazenkai (Extended Zen Service) the han (wooden block) is struck for the first time to start the beginning of the service. The ino then announces the first chant and the service begins. We chant in both Japanese, Pali and English to show respect to Zen’s roots and lineage. After the last chant, kinhin or walking meditation begins which will be repeated at various times during the service. The bell is struck and the sangha sits down to begin zazen (seated meditation) practice. During Zazen we become, and remain still throughout the round while watching our breath or working on our Koan. Our eyes become half closed and focused downward to the floor in front of us to avoid distractions. The bell is struck (dink) after 25 minutes and to allow new students the option to stand up and face the wall or adjust their posture. The bell is struck once again after 10 minutes, informing those who are standing to please be seated. The final bell struck is at the 40 minute mark to signal the cessation of the sitting round.The sangha then does walking meditation or Kin-hin which will last for fifteen minutes. When kinhin is completed, the sangha once again is seated.
To conclude, Rev. Joriki Ryuun Baker, Osho may offer a Dharma Talk and the service is closed with chanting.
Students who are new to Zen Practice should arrive fifteen minutes early for meditation instructions. Blue Mountain Zendo does offer cushion sets; however, it is a good idea to obtain a personal set if possible, or contact the zendo to let them know you will need a set to use. Having your own set will allow you the opportunity to sit both with the sangha (group) as well as alone when at home or work, however, please ask for the appropriate color and size before ordering. Also to note, if you cannot sit on the floor due to a medical condition, chairs are available. If done correctly, sitting in a chair is no different than sitting on the floor.
An offering is traditional for those visiting for the first time. This offering is symbolic of the “open” and “giving” nature of the new student and his/her recognition of the value of the teachings.
During Zazenkai (Extended Zen Service) the han (wooden block) is struck for the first time to start the beginning of the service. The ino then announces the first chant and the service begins. We chant in both Japanese, Pali and English to show respect to Zen’s roots and lineage. After the last chant, kinhin or walking meditation begins which will be repeated at various times during the service. The bell is struck and the sangha sits down to begin zazen (seated meditation) practice. During Zazen we become, and remain still throughout the round while watching our breath or working on our Koan. Our eyes become half closed and focused downward to the floor in front of us to avoid distractions. The bell is struck (dink) after 25 minutes and to allow new students the option to stand up and face the wall or adjust their posture. The bell is struck once again after 10 minutes, informing those who are standing to please be seated. The final bell struck is at the 40 minute mark to signal the cessation of the sitting round.The sangha then does walking meditation or Kin-hin which will last for fifteen minutes. When kinhin is completed, the sangha once again is seated.
To conclude, Rev. Joriki Ryuun Baker, Osho may offer a Dharma Talk and the service is closed with chanting.
Students who are new to Zen Practice should arrive fifteen minutes early for meditation instructions. Blue Mountain Zendo does offer cushion sets; however, it is a good idea to obtain a personal set if possible, or contact the zendo to let them know you will need a set to use. Having your own set will allow you the opportunity to sit both with the sangha (group) as well as alone when at home or work, however, please ask for the appropriate color and size before ordering. Also to note, if you cannot sit on the floor due to a medical condition, chairs are available. If done correctly, sitting in a chair is no different than sitting on the floor.
An offering is traditional for those visiting for the first time. This offering is symbolic of the “open” and “giving” nature of the new student and his/her recognition of the value of the teachings.
During Zazenkai (Extended Zen Service) the han (wooden block) is struck for the first time to start the beginning of the service. The ino then announces the first chant and the service begins. We chant in both Japanese, Pali and English to show respect to Zen’s roots and lineage. After the last chant, kinhin or walking meditation begins which will be repeated at various times during the service. The bell is struck and the sangha sits down to begin zazen (seated meditation) practice. During Zazen we become, and remain still throughout the round while watching our breath or working on our Koan. Our eyes become half closed and focused downward to the floor in front of us to avoid distractions. The bell is struck (dink) after 25 minutes and to allow new students the option to stand up and face the wall or adjust their posture. The bell is struck once again after 10 minutes, informing those who are standing to please be seated. The final bell struck is at the 40 minute mark to signal the cessation of the sitting round.The sangha then does walking meditation or Kin-hin which will last for fifteen minutes. When kinhin is completed, the sangha once again is seated.
To conclude, Rev. Joriki Ryuun Baker, Osho may offer a Dharma Talk and the service is closed with chanting.
Students who are new to Zen Practice should arrive fifteen minutes early for meditation instructions. Blue Mountain Zendo does offer cushion sets; however, it is a good idea to obtain a personal set if possible, or contact the zendo to let them know you will need a set to use. Having your own set will allow you the opportunity to sit both with the sangha (group) as well as alone when at home or work, however, please ask for the appropriate color and size before ordering. Also to note, if you cannot sit on the floor due to a medical condition, chairs are available. If done correctly, sitting in a chair is no different than sitting on the floor.
An offering is traditional for those visiting for the first time. This offering is symbolic of the “open” and “giving” nature of the new student and his/her recognition of the value of the teachings.
During Zazenkai (Extended Zen Service) the han (wooden block) is struck for the first time to start the beginning of the service. The ino then announces the first chant and the service begins. We chant in both Japanese, Pali and English to show respect to Zen’s roots and lineage. After the last chant, kinhin or walking meditation begins which will be repeated at various times during the service. The bell is struck and the sangha sits down to begin zazen (seated meditation) practice. During Zazen we become, and remain still throughout the round while watching our breath or working on our Koan. Our eyes become half closed and focused downward to the floor in front of us to avoid distractions. The bell is struck (dink) after 25 minutes and to allow new students the option to stand up and face the wall or adjust their posture. The bell is struck once again after 10 minutes, informing those who are standing to please be seated. The final bell struck is at the 40 minute mark to signal the cessation of the sitting round.The sangha then does walking meditation or Kin-hin which will last for fifteen minutes. When kinhin is completed, the sangha once again is seated.
To conclude, Rev. Joriki Ryuun Baker, Osho may offer a Dharma Talk and the service is closed with chanting.
Students who are new to Zen Practice should arrive fifteen minutes early for meditation instructions. Blue Mountain Zendo does offer cushion sets; however, it is a good idea to obtain a personal set if possible, or contact the zendo to let them know you will need a set to use. Having your own set will allow you the opportunity to sit both with the sangha (group) as well as alone when at home or work, however, please ask for the appropriate color and size before ordering. Also to note, if you cannot sit on the floor due to a medical condition, chairs are available. If done correctly, sitting in a chair is no different than sitting on the floor.
An offering is traditional for those visiting for the first time. This offering is symbolic of the “open” and “giving” nature of the new student and his/her recognition of the value of the teachings.
During Zazenkai (Extended Zen Service) the han (wooden block) is struck for the first time to start the beginning of the service. The ino then announces the first chant and the service begins. We chant in both Japanese, Pali and English to show respect to Zen’s roots and lineage. After the last chant, kinhin or walking meditation begins which will be repeated at various times during the service. The bell is struck and the sangha sits down to begin zazen (seated meditation) practice. During Zazen we become, and remain still throughout the round while watching our breath or working on our Koan. Our eyes become half closed and focused downward to the floor in front of us to avoid distractions. The bell is struck (dink) after 25 minutes and to allow new students the option to stand up and face the wall or adjust their posture. The bell is struck once again after 10 minutes, informing those who are standing to please be seated. The final bell struck is at the 40 minute mark to signal the cessation of the sitting round.The sangha then does walking meditation or Kin-hin which will last for fifteen minutes. When kinhin is completed, the sangha once again is seated.
To conclude, Rev. Joriki Ryuun Baker, Osho may offer a Dharma Talk and the service is closed with chanting.
Students who are new to Zen Practice should arrive fifteen minutes early for meditation instructions. Blue Mountain Zendo does offer cushion sets; however, it is a good idea to obtain a personal set if possible, or contact the zendo to let them know you will need a set to use. Having your own set will allow you the opportunity to sit both with the sangha (group) as well as alone when at home or work, however, please ask for the appropriate color and size before ordering. Also to note, if you cannot sit on the floor due to a medical condition, chairs are available. If done correctly, sitting in a chair is no different than sitting on the floor.
An offering is traditional for those visiting for the first time. This offering is symbolic of the “open” and “giving” nature of the new student and his/her recognition of the value of the teachings.
During Zazenkai (Extended Zen Service) the han (wooden block) is struck for the first time to start the beginning of the service. The ino then announces the first chant and the service begins. We chant in both Japanese, Pali and English to show respect to Zen’s roots and lineage. After the last chant, kinhin or walking meditation begins which will be repeated at various times during the service. The bell is struck and the sangha sits down to begin zazen (seated meditation) practice. During Zazen we become, and remain still throughout the round while watching our breath or working on our Koan. Our eyes become half closed and focused downward to the floor in front of us to avoid distractions. The bell is struck (dink) after 25 minutes and to allow new students the option to stand up and face the wall or adjust their posture. The bell is struck once again after 10 minutes, informing those who are standing to please be seated. The final bell struck is at the 40 minute mark to signal the cessation of the sitting round.The sangha then does walking meditation or Kin-hin which will last for fifteen minutes. When kinhin is completed, the sangha once again is seated.
To conclude, Rev. Joriki Ryuun Baker, Osho may offer a Dharma Talk and the service is closed with chanting.
Students who are new to Zen Practice should arrive fifteen minutes early for meditation instructions. Blue Mountain Zendo does offer cushion sets; however, it is a good idea to obtain a personal set if possible, or contact the zendo to let them know you will need a set to use. Having your own set will allow you the opportunity to sit both with the sangha (group) as well as alone when at home or work, however, please ask for the appropriate color and size before ordering. Also to note, if you cannot sit on the floor due to a medical condition, chairs are available. If done correctly, sitting in a chair is no different than sitting on the floor.
An offering is traditional for those visiting for the first time. This offering is symbolic of the “open” and “giving” nature of the new student and his/her recognition of the value of the teachings.
During Zazenkai (Extended Zen Service) the han (wooden block) is struck for the first time to start the beginning of the service. The ino then announces the first chant and the service begins. We chant in both Japanese, Pali and English to show respect to Zen’s roots and lineage. After the last chant, kinhin or walking meditation begins which will be repeated at various times during the service. The bell is struck and the sangha sits down to begin zazen (seated meditation) practice. During Zazen we become, and remain still throughout the round while watching our breath or working on our Koan. Our eyes become half closed and focused downward to the floor in front of us to avoid distractions. The bell is struck (dink) after 25 minutes and to allow new students the option to stand up and face the wall or adjust their posture. The bell is struck once again after 10 minutes, informing those who are standing to please be seated. The final bell struck is at the 40 minute mark to signal the cessation of the sitting round.The sangha then does walking meditation or Kin-hin which will last for fifteen minutes. When kinhin is completed, the sangha once again is seated.
To conclude, Rev. Joriki Ryuun Baker, Osho may offer a Dharma Talk and the service is closed with chanting.
Students who are new to Zen Practice should arrive fifteen minutes early for meditation instructions. Blue Mountain Zendo does offer cushion sets; however, it is a good idea to obtain a personal set if possible, or contact the zendo to let them know you will need a set to use. Having your own set will allow you the opportunity to sit both with the sangha (group) as well as alone when at home or work, however, please ask for the appropriate color and size before ordering. Also to note, if you cannot sit on the floor due to a medical condition, chairs are available. If done correctly, sitting in a chair is no different than sitting on the floor.
An offering is traditional for those visiting for the first time. This offering is symbolic of the “open” and “giving” nature of the new student and his/her recognition of the value of the teachings.
During Zazenkai (Extended Zen Service) the han (wooden block) is struck for the first time to start the beginning of the service. The ino then announces the first chant and the service begins. We chant in both Japanese, Pali and English to show respect to Zen’s roots and lineage. After the last chant, kinhin or walking meditation begins which will be repeated at various times during the service. The bell is struck and the sangha sits down to begin zazen (seated meditation) practice. During Zazen we become, and remain still throughout the round while watching our breath or working on our Koan. Our eyes become half closed and focused downward to the floor in front of us to avoid distractions. The bell is struck (dink) after 25 minutes and to allow new students the option to stand up and face the wall or adjust their posture. The bell is struck once again after 10 minutes, informing those who are standing to please be seated. The final bell struck is at the 40 minute mark to signal the cessation of the sitting round.The sangha then does walking meditation or Kin-hin which will last for fifteen minutes. When kinhin is completed, the sangha once again is seated.
To conclude, Rev. Joriki Ryuun Baker, Osho may offer a Dharma Talk and the service is closed with chanting.
Students who are new to Zen Practice should arrive fifteen minutes early for meditation instructions. Blue Mountain Zendo does offer cushion sets; however, it is a good idea to obtain a personal set if possible, or contact the zendo to let them know you will need a set to use. Having your own set will allow you the opportunity to sit both with the sangha (group) as well as alone when at home or work, however, please ask for the appropriate color and size before ordering. Also to note, if you cannot sit on the floor due to a medical condition, chairs are available. If done correctly, sitting in a chair is no different than sitting on the floor.
An offering is traditional for those visiting for the first time. This offering is symbolic of the “open” and “giving” nature of the new student and his/her recognition of the value of the teachings.
During Zazenkai (Extended Zen Service) the han (wooden block) is struck for the first time to start the beginning of the service. The ino then announces the first chant and the service begins. We chant in both Japanese, Pali and English to show respect to Zen’s roots and lineage. After the last chant, kinhin or walking meditation begins which will be repeated at various times during the service. The bell is struck and the sangha sits down to begin zazen (seated meditation) practice. During Zazen we become, and remain still throughout the round while watching our breath or working on our Koan. Our eyes become half closed and focused downward to the floor in front of us to avoid distractions. The bell is struck (dink) after 25 minutes and to allow new students the option to stand up and face the wall or adjust their posture. The bell is struck once again after 10 minutes, informing those who are standing to please be seated. The final bell struck is at the 40 minute mark to signal the cessation of the sitting round.The sangha then does walking meditation or Kin-hin which will last for fifteen minutes. When kinhin is completed, the sangha once again is seated.
To conclude, Rev. Joriki Ryuun Baker, Osho may offer a Dharma Talk and the service is closed with chanting.
Students who are new to Zen Practice should arrive fifteen minutes early for meditation instructions. Blue Mountain Zendo does offer cushion sets; however, it is a good idea to obtain a personal set if possible, or contact the zendo to let them know you will need a set to use. Having your own set will allow you the opportunity to sit both with the sangha (group) as well as alone when at home or work, however, please ask for the appropriate color and size before ordering. Also to note, if you cannot sit on the floor due to a medical condition, chairs are available. If done correctly, sitting in a chair is no different than sitting on the floor.
An offering is traditional for those visiting for the first time. This offering is symbolic of the “open” and “giving” nature of the new student and his/her recognition of the value of the teachings.
During Zazenkai (Extended Zen Service) the han (wooden block) is struck for the first time to start the beginning of the service. The ino then announces the first chant and the service begins. We chant in both Japanese, Pali and English to show respect to Zen’s roots and lineage. After the last chant, kinhin or walking meditation begins which will be repeated at various times during the service. The bell is struck and the sangha sits down to begin zazen (seated meditation) practice. During Zazen we become, and remain still throughout the round while watching our breath or working on our Koan. Our eyes become half closed and focused downward to the floor in front of us to avoid distractions. The bell is struck (dink) after 25 minutes and to allow new students the option to stand up and face the wall or adjust their posture. The bell is struck once again after 10 minutes, informing those who are standing to please be seated. The final bell struck is at the 40 minute mark to signal the cessation of the sitting round.The sangha then does walking meditation or Kin-hin which will last for fifteen minutes. When kinhin is completed, the sangha once again is seated.
To conclude, Rev. Joriki Ryuun Baker, Osho may offer a Dharma Talk and the service is closed with chanting.
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