Mountain Cloud Zen Podcasts Dharma Talk: “Nothing Lacking” with Scott Thornton
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Nov 11, 2025 Scott Thornton dives into the thought-provoking theme of 'Nothing Lacking,' connecting it to the art of just-sitting. He contrasts worldly struggles like poverty and greed with the profound truth of inherent sufficiency. Delving into Case 10 from the Mumonkan, he frames Seizei's plea as a deep Dharma challenge. Scott interprets Sozan's response, 'You've Drunk the Wine,' emphasizing our natural fullness. He encourages a practice of compassion that recognizes suffering while resting in our original perfection.
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Watershed Teens Visiting Mountain Cloud
- Mountain Cloud hosted teenagers from the Watershed School who practiced zazen and asked, "what does it mean to be human?"
- Their presence inspired teachers and showed the Sangha something about practice and humanity.
Nothing Lacking At The Core
- Nothing is lacking at the essential level because our true nature is whole and one with everything.
- Seeing through the delusion of separateness reveals an already-complete prosperity.
Practice Shikantaza: Just Sitting
- Practice shikantaza: sit without objects, noticing thoughts and returning to the present.
- Drop planning and desire during practice and attend to this moment as it arises.
