Rochester Zen Center Teisho (Zen Talks) Harada Tangen Roshi #2
Oct 2, 2025
Explore the wisdom of Tangen Roshi as it invites deeper engagement with Zen practice. Discover how distractions can enhance focus, and the importance of gentle effort over force. A quirky tale about a flying squirrel encourages deeper zazen. Tangen Roshi emphasizes recognizing support and nurturing a genuine hunger for awakening. Additionally, there's a reminder to practice with an open-hearted approach, avoiding rigidity. The discussion underscores the power of interdependence and community in the journey toward enlightenment.
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Words Point, Experience Reveals
- Concepts and explanations are only fingers pointing at the moon and cannot capture nonduality.
- Direct experience, not intellectualization, reveals that we are not separate from the world.
Squirrel Above The Zendo
- A flying squirrel lived under the zendo roof and made loud noises that disrupted morning zazen.
- Tangen Roshi described relocating the squirrel and called its presence a karmic connection that encouraged practice.
Use Distraction As Practice Feedback
- When sounds disturb your practice, use the irritation as feedback that concentration has weakened.
- Relax without opposing the sound and return to your zazen practice calmly.
