Alone in a World of Wounds with Zen Abbot Shodhin Geiman
Aug 29, 2024
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Shodhin Geiman, Sensei & Abbot at Chicago Zen Center, shares deep insights drawn from his extensive experience as a scholar and practitioner. He discusses the delicate balance between Buddhism and activism, advocating for patience over impulsive reactions. Geiman delves into the complexities of serving dual interests and critiques American Buddhism's fix-it mentality. He emphasizes the need for reflection amidst modern discontent, and how confronting discomfort can lead to genuine personal growth, drawing connections between Dharma and everyday struggles.
Shodhin Geiman discusses the potential pitfalls of conflating Buddhism with activism, emphasizing the need for critical reflection before action.
The importance of non-attachment is highlighted as a key Buddhist practice, essential for navigating desires and achieving inner peace.
Patience and forbearance are portrayed as vital virtues, urging practitioners to ground themselves in their practice amidst societal pressures for immediate change.
Deep dives
Transitioning to New Work Platforms
The episode addresses the dissatisfaction with traditional work platforms that often impose lengthy onboarding processes and constant IT challenges. This frustration leads to the discovery of more efficient alternatives, particularly highlighting the user-friendly features of Monday.com. The platform is praised for its visually appealing dashboards and customizable workflows, which simplify project management and enhance productivity. This transition signifies a broader desire for tools that genuinely meet the needs of modern teams and foster a more enjoyable work experience.
Upcoming Episodes and Guest Insights
Listeners are introduced to a series of upcoming interviews featuring prominent guests who will discuss a variety of engaging themes. Notably, Dr. Simone Kodva will explore the dynamics of effort and grace in philosophical and spiritual contexts. Vesna Wallace will share her expertise in South Asian studies and Inner Asian Buddhism, particularly focusing on the color chakra and major tantra practices. Additionally, Hans Schumacher will delve into Japanese philosophy and mysticism, promising a rich exploration of these diverse topics.
The Challenge of Buddhism and Activism
A significant theme of the conversation revolves around the intersection of Buddhism and activism, questioning whether the two can coexist effectively. The discussion critiques a prevalent notion that activism is a required component of modern Buddhist practice, arguing that this can lead to an obsession with fixing the world. Asserting that this mindset can become a form of hubris, the conversation emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between genuine practice and merely reactive activism. It suggests that critical thinking and contemplation are vital to developing a more profound understanding of one’s motivations in practice.
The Importance of Non-Attachment
The episode highlights the Buddhist concept of non-attachment as a critical aspect of practice, framing it as a necessary discipline to navigate an increasingly complex world. The discussion posits that suffering arises when individuals cling to desires or outcomes, which can keep them trapped in cycles of craving. By emphasizing awareness of one's reactions rather than trying to change external conditions, practitioners can cultivate a sense of freedom and peace. This perspective encourages a more profound engagement with reality, moving beyond superficial understandings of happiness or success.
Patience and Forbearance in Practice
The conversation further emphasizes patience and forbearance as central virtues in Buddhist practice, particularly in light of contemporary societal pressures to seek immediate solutions. It argues that the rush to enact change often ignores the need for thoughtful reflection and understanding. The importance of grounding oneself in practice before making demands for results is underscored, suggesting that enduring the complexities of life is essential for growth. By looking to the wisdom of past Dharma ancestors, the dialogue suggests a sober reminder that the path involves deep engagement rather than superficial activism.
In this conversation we explore his views on Dharma and Activism and Engaged Buddhism as developed in his critical take on both, Alone in a World of Wounds.
We discuss;
1. His two books on practice.
2. The concepts of deliverance of mind and non-adherence in the practicing life.
3. The unfashionable practices of patience and forbearance and why they matter.
4. Why mixing Buddhism and activism is not all it is cracked up to be.
5. The inherent problems with trying to serve two masters and the impact this has on dharma practice.
6. The Slovenian philosopher Slavoj Zizekis critique of the New left and activism and the call to stop and think before acting.
7. How the desire to fix the world runs in tandem with the desire to fix ourselves and how both are so deeply rooted in American Buddhism.
