Buddhas and ancestors of old were as we Upaya Zen Center's Dharma Podcast

Sensei Monshin assures us that we are not so different from the Buddhas and ancestors that inspire us. ”The Buddha way has been kept alive in so many cultures, conditions, lifestyles, and expressions all over the world. So how is it that the Buddhas and ancestors of old were as we?”, she asks. “What are the ingredients that we bring to our practice if and when it’s stripped of considerations of culture, behavior, social relationships, and intellect?“ Monshin highlights steadfast dedication as one of these ingredients. We often believe our practice must be somewhere else, but Monshin reminds us that it is always right here. “Put yourself in a situation and just commit to stay with it. In that situation, that is your place of practice.” This requires great effort and commitment as well as lightness and humor to not be overwhelmed by the enormity of our vows. In continuing to let go of our self-centeredness and turn towards serving life we become more resolute in our determination. “You do what you can in the place that you are with your ingredients and you make it your responsibility because a single spark can change everything.”