Pedagogy

I actually think the emphasis we place on “narrative” is, at times, oppressive. I’m not interested in telling my reader “a story.” I’m interested in giving my reader an experience…I’m much more interested in the ways in which a poem can be a two-word...

Transmission

On the day of the anniversary of a death I treat things I see as auspicious, a messenger. Today marks 20 years since Soto Zen master, Kobun Chino died. He was a great teacher in his tremendous ability for kindness and unpredictability, and his creative way, and...

Meditation Instruction :: tips

I thought to offer a small thing to you, to assist you with your meditation practice—a tip. Then I thought of another, and another. They are yours to evolve as you wish. After I’ve found a quiet place where I want to sit down, an upright posture, figured out how high...

An Invitation

A retreat has a beginning, middle, and end to it and certain things are bound to happen during these phases. I listen to a chef on the radio. First thing to teach novice chefs is: “Mis en Place.” * This means to gather and put all the ingredients and tools you’ll need...

A Good Year for Apples

I bow before the short talk I’m about to give for the three people listening, two on zoom, and one sitting beside me. I read upside down the inscription on the back of my rakasu, the hand sewed fabric sort-of bib that hangs over my head like a prayer flag. “Flexible...