Letter From Our Guiding Teacher, Jokai Blackwell Roshi
September 2023
Dear Friends,
In the Soto Zen Buddhist tradition, we offer a chant at the conclusion of meditation each evening. We recite the words, “Time swiftly passes by, and opportunity is lost.” This is a direct reminder that another day has passed, and with it, valuable opportunities to be involved in the lives of those around us and truly present in our world. Each one of us has the capacity for immeasurable positive impact in this life. At the heart of each of our meditation traditions is the active exploration and realization of our most authentic self-nature. We study the Self, in order to better express and actualize the very best aspects of who we are, day after day.
The primary purpose of Long Beach Meditation (LBM) is implicit in the name. We exist to practice and share the straightforward art of meditation. To meditate is to deepen our appreciation of this mysterious life. Time seated on the cushion, bench, or chair is time invested in allowing the body-mind to refresh and return to its natural, indivisible state of being. Practicing meditation is a powerful support for the individual. The adage that we should put our own oxygen mask on first, before attempting to help those around us, is applicable to dharma practice. To sit, to breathe consciously, is to put on our own oxygen mask. We do this together. We demonstrate taking responsibility for ourselves and for one another in the simplest and more direct way. And as we do, our practice is transformative. As our collective achievement is emphasized, the underlying unity becomes apparent. From this point of view, all modes of travel or transport are “the raft to the other shore.” We are all “on board” in unique ways. In a certain sense, dharma teachings or the basic art of inquiry can serve as fuel for our journey.
Through our exposure to Buddhist teachings, we become acquainted with words like ‘enlightenment’ and ‘awakening.’ These terms can feel exotic or abstract, and when misunderstood can even become impediments to our spiritual growth. What, after all, is enlightenment? When we practice, what do we enlighten? What is awakening? What is it that we awaken from, or to? What is truly involved in this exploration? These are all good questions to ask! We should not think of enlightenment as a distinct event in time. To do so forestalls our enlightenment here and now. The light of awareness is already and always apparent. Each one of us reflects, contains, transmutes, and shares this light through our own singular lens. To awaken is to realign with the fundamental presence that enlivens all things, without exception. Why not awaken to this right now? Time, after all, swiftly passes by. Our collective meditation practice forms a solid foundation for an engaged, present life. As we share our days, we continue to grow and deepen in our work together. It is an exciting time for LBM! The sphere of our activity is widening and developing. We are taking our practice into the out-of-doors, onto the beach, into urban gardens, and so essentially, into the vast and boundless spaces of our busy, messy, and beautifully complicated lives. It is encouraging and inspiring! We are building a community with deep local roots, and strong branches that reach out in many directions. Let’s take good care of it.
As always, I welcome your reaching out to me directly at jokai@longbeachmeditation.org. Thank you for your many contributions and continued, valuable support.
Bows,
Jokai