In this Wednesday Night Dharma Talk, Sensei Monshin thoughtfully guides us into an embodied practice of wisdom and compassion, inviting us to examine the misunderstandings that shape our perception of self and reality. Drawing from Harry Roberts’ Walking in Beauty: Growing Up with the Yurok Indians, she explores the care and struggle required to transform these misunderstandings into a path toward… Source

In this heartfelt Wednesday Night Dharma Talk, Hoshi Chris Senko Perez weaves together his personal journey to Zen practice with reflections on the Prajnaparamita Sutra. Sharing the path that led him from a life of work addiction and alcoholism to finding a spiritual home at Upaya, Senko reveals how meditation practice created space for transformation even during his most challenging times. Source

In this Wednesday Night Dharma Talk, Sensei Kodo brings his characteristic warmth and curiosity to an exploration of classic Mahayana literature. With equal parts scholarly enthusiasm and playful inquiry, he delves into this classical Buddhist text, beginning with the Matriarchs lineage chant before venturing into what he calls “dharma geek” territory – the Prajnaparamita Sutra in 8,000 Lines. Source

In this final talk of the Winter Practice Period Sesshin, Senseis Wendy Johnson, Kozan, Kodo, and Roshi Joan Halifax weave together teachings on practicing with sincerity and innocence. Beginning with reflections on practicing “without aiming,” they move through stories of Manjushri and Dogen’s instructions on posture, culminating in Roshi Joan’s powerful message about meeting the world’s… Source

Matthew Kozan-Palevsky, a speaker at Upaya Zen Center's Winter Practice Period Sesshin, dives into Dogen's “Great Kalpa Fire,” examining impermanence and attachment. He shares personal stories that evoke deep Zen teachings. The discussion encourages letting go of our burdens, revealing how attachment, even to our practices, obstructs true understanding. Kozan inspires listeners to embrace the transient nature of life and death, promoting compassion and patience on the spiritual journey.

In this talk from the third full day of the Winter Practice Period Sesshin, Sensei Wendy Johnson explores Yunmen’s teaching “rice in the bowl, water in the bucket” through Case 158 of the Shobogenzo. Weaving together stories of rice cultivation across cultures, personal encounters with rice farmers in Japan, and the deep meaning of oryoki practice, Wendy conveys how every grain of rice contains… Source

In this talk from the second full day of the Winter Practice Period Sesshin, Sensei Kodo explores the nature of non-conceptual presence through Case 249 of the Shobogenzo, “The Dharma That Has Never Been Spoken.” Drawing on the dialogue between Priest Nirvana and Nanchuan, he illuminates how our constant commentary and conceptual overlays separate us from direct experience. Source

Explore the depths of gratitude towards ancestors in the Zen tradition, framed by personal stories amidst conflict. Discover the transformative power of maintaining a beginner's mind, as illustrated by a monk's journey. Learn how daily actions, like washing a bowl, unlock mindfulness and connection. Delve into the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in spiritual practices, highlighting personal responsibility and the embrace of life's challenges as avenues for growth.

Explore the transformative power of interconnection as Rebecca Solnit discusses how our societal isolation shapes current politics. She draws parallels between Buddhist teachings and Martin Luther King Jr.'s vision, emphasizing collective responsibility. The talk challenges authoritarianism and advocates for collective action against misinformation. It also highlights the impact of individual actions on activism, encouraging a return to indigenous wisdom for deeper understanding of equality. Dive into the beauty of human relationships and shared journeys!

In a thought-provoking discussion, the speaker delves into the chaotic political landscape, emphasizing the need for genuine dialogue. They critique the manipulation and mistrust permeating politics, particularly affecting marginalized groups. Drawing on Buddhist wisdom, the conversation highlights the importance of radical honesty and genuine trust as antidotes to societal addiction to self. Personal stories enhance the exploration of honesty's role in relationships, urging sincerity to build deeper connections amidst challenges.