This week’s topic for reflection is the third of “The Eight Aspects of Great Beings’ Awakening,” enjoying serenity. Another way of saying this is enjoying solitude and silence. This is what we do when we practice zazen, sitting upright in still openness. Zazen gives us an opportunity to step away from the business of hectic lives, relax and exhale for a moment. Return to being present without needing to accomplish anything. At the center of our being is this calm, centered serenity. With practice we can learn to be serene in the midst of activity or at least return to or approach it when we begin to “lose it.”
This awakening begins with the word enjoying. This serenity is joyful. What kind of joy is this? This joy is not a result of the situation but is the functioning of awakening. Beginners mind, open to whatever is present is joyful.
The situation can often be challenging and painful. We often add to this a narrative stream of thought that distracts us from the truth and potential of the moment. It’s important to recognize the suffering created by the greed and resistance employed along with this narrative stream. The alternative to this is serenity.
Having little desire and knowing satisfaction are natural and easy when enjoying serenity. Serenity is transparent, effortless, awake and flowing with change. It’s how we are when we get out of the way. Serenity is not dependent on the situation, it’s just not in conflict with the situation. Serenity is the natural order of mind.
How do you enjoy serenity in your life?
Please join us for morning Zoom zazen from 7:00 to 7:30 Tuesday and Thursday, in person Zen meditation in Eugene Saturday morning at the McNail-Riley house from 9:00 to 11:00 and Sunday morning Zoom zazen and discussion of the topic for reflection blog from 8:00 to 9:00 Pacific Time. Here’s the Zoom link:
Meeting ID: 811 6100 3357
Passcode: 278259
Gassho,
Futai
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