A dharma study series with Shinmon Michael Newton

One of the main chants in our liturgy is the Harmony of Difference and Equality, a poem by our eighth-century Chinese ancestor, Shitou Xiqian.  Shitou also wrote another poem about practice called Song of the Grass Roof Hermitage that uses rich imagery to show the way to a contemplative life in the world.  In this poem, Shitou calls to us to wake up from our spell of unrelenting busyness and despair of not having enough time and teaches us a way to presence and connection with all things.  Over four weeks we’ll explore the teachings Shitou gives in this 32-line poem and consider how we can weave them into our lives and practice.

We will have our usual two zazen periods, followed by an informal talk, and discussion. It is not necessary to attend the complete series to participate. The talks will be posted on the website for those who want to make up sessions they miss. Please come and join us.

By donation.