into the silence

 

It has long been the custom in Zen monasteries and meditation centres to set aside several days each month for a silent retreat. In Japan such occasions are called sesshin 攝心 which means “gathering the heart/mind.”

 

For the next two days I’ll be on Mayne Island (just across Active Pass from where I live) to guide a stalwart group of meditators in a mini-sesshin. We’ll practice sitting, walking, and standing meditation, eat communal bag luncheons, work in our host’s garden and woods, and listen to recorded talks (Jap. teisho) by Chozen Bays Roshi, my teacher at Great Vow Zen Monastery. And all that in silence.

 

I won’t be able to write during that time and invite you to visit again after Tuesday evening. You’re welcome to set aside some time, however short or long, to sit in silence as well. This way we sit together, to benefit ourselves and all beings.

 

May your life go well.

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