My son, Leon, asked if he could sit-a-long today. I am always glad to have him plop down in my lap during Zazen. Since it is “Children’s Day” in Japan next week, I thought to let Leon pick the theme. We had been watching news reports of that terrible oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, so he suggested I talk a little about that. What does Buddhism have to say about preserving the environment and this planet for our kids?
[Click through to read more and "sit-a-long" with today's video.]
Well, of course, we should cherish this amazing world. Moreover, this planet could use lots of us living a bit more like monks with few possessions. The value that “Zen culture” places on simplicity, natural beauty and non-materialism may guide us to turn away from our current rampant consumerism and buy-and-throw-away culture. We should, instead, cherish the small things, that which money cannot buy… like the joy of having a child sitting in one’s lap during Zazen.
Leon usually lasts just a few minutes sitting Zazen with me. I do not insist he sit, and try to make it pleasant for him. So, after two or three minutes, he usually is ready to go. However, today he made it the whole 25 minutes! (Well, he was sleeping for the last 20!)
(Oh, and I apologize for the sound today… computer issues… )
Today’s Sit-A-Long video follows. Remember: recording ends soon after the beginning bells; a sitting time of 20 to 35 minutes is recommended.
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7 Comments
thank you thank you – a celebration of father and son and children my son had woken up and come down in his pjs and i was trying to usher him away as i was keen to begin my practice – i saw this and instead drew him close and he said "he can visit my house" and then when your son fell asleep and his head went back "i can show him my chin" – maybe if i just keep welcoming my children rather than being offbalanced as they come into my meditation they will be – at one too
INSTANT CLASSIC!!!^_^ This is your best teaching yet, just you and your son sitting there smiling. That's what it's all about. You're a lucky man. Thanks for this Jundo! gassho
Thanks to you Jundo… and to Leon of course!
gassho,
Thank you Leon. Thank you Jundo. Gassho
Thank you Jundo and Leon Sensei!
Gassho,
Dosho
Awesome! Thank you guys!
Gassho
Getting caught up on my Sit-a-Longs. Nice job Leon!
Gassho,
Jisen