This is the initial post of Howling Dragon: Reflections on Socially Engaged Buddhism. My intention is to reflect on the many ways that Zen can inform the work of all those who are laboring to alleviate human suffering in this world.
Zen has a reputation for being somewhat enigmatic and at times paradoxical for folks who are new to this ancient wisdom tradition. An yet, more and more, the word "zen" is popping up throughout the culture in all kinds of ways. I have seen it associated with everything from electronic MP3 players to backpacking stoves.
So what exactly is Zen? Zen Master Roshi Bernie Glassman defines it very simply: Zen is your life. Because Zen is your life, my life and everyone and everything's life, the essence of Zen, which is the very essence of our essential being is compassionate action in service to others.
This blog will explore the many ways that Zen teachings illuminate our essential nature and provide a gateway into our true hearts where compassion for others is our original intention. It is my hope that what appears on these pages will shed some additional light on the many ways each and every one of us can work to make our lives and the lives of others less burdensome.
Stay tuned ....
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