The Sacred Speaks 116: Henry Shukman: Zen Teacher, Poet, Author of "Original Love"
Dec 9, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Zen teacher, poet, and author Henry Shukman shares his transformative journey from struggle to enlightenment. He explores the essence of Zen practice, unveiling the beauty of ordinary experience. Henry discusses the awakening he had at 19 and the integration of that experience into his life. He offers insights into common meditation obstacles and emphasizes the importance of stillness. Additionally, he highlights the connection between poetry and meditation, inviting listeners to dive deeper into their own spiritual practices.
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Discipline Reveals A Tender Core
- Henry sees Zen's strict exterior as a gateway protecting a tender, boundless heart at the core of practice.
- The practice's discipline leads to discovering an innate warm-heartedness that is universal, not private.
Beach Awakening Became A North Star
- Henry describes an awakening on a Peruvian beach where his sense of separateness vanished instantly.
- That moment became a north star he later explored through meditation and Zen practice.
Meditation Has Multiple Valid Aims
- Meditation offers multiple pathways: nervous-system regulation, flow, soulful connection, and awakening; they are distinct but related.
- Henry stresses integration of awakening into ordinary life rather than treating it as a detached peak.
