Rochester Zen Center Teisho (Zen Talks) Everyday Zen #1
Jun 12, 2025
Explore the metaphor of fire in Zen practice, emphasizing the vital role of attention in overcoming distractions. Learn about the cost of true practice and the importance of willingness to engage in life fully. Personal stories illustrate how commitment and compassion weave together our experiences, highlighting the interconnected nature of self-awareness on the journey towards enlightenment.
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Childhood Coal Burning Story
- John Pulleyn shares an anecdote about burning anthracite and lignite coal in his childhood furnace.
- He compares hard coal's clean burn to practice and soft coal's dirty burn to distracted minds.
Practice Purifies the Mind
- Practice is breaking exclusive identification with self to purify the mind.
- Attention acts as a cutting, burning sword refining our egoistic delusions.
Value Daily Sitting Practice
- Prioritize daily sitting meditation to maintain attention and avoid backsliding.
- Even small daily practices are more beneficial than occasional intensive ones.
