The Birds Flew this Coop!

Artists and Contemplatives

2010-11-02T07:20:00.000-07:00

A recent discussion about art in contemporary society highlighted three aspects: production of objects are no longer privileged (doing less is a creative act), a single author is replaced by co-creatives, art does not require an audience for its completion but a usership.

Lately, I have been thinking about sangha, especially sesshin, as performance art. We are co-creating a space for the integration of form and formlessness that requires no audience but is embodied for the use of all beings.

Louis and Isabella

2010-10-15T10:13:00.000-07:00

Today is rest day for us. Isabella had her chemo dose last night. There is a zen case that comes to mind. Great Master Ma was unwell. The superintendent of the monastery asked him, "How are you feeling these days? The Great Master said, "Sun face Buddha, Moon Face Buddha.

2010-09-13T05:41:00.001-07:00

just checking

Dance

2010-02-13T16:26:00.000-08:00

“So, as a Zen Buddhist Priest, what do you believe?” “I believe it’s time to trim some nose hairs.”

2010-01-18T20:55:00.000-08:00

We have begun the process of shifting from this blogspot site to our new website which includes expanded information on the sangha and events, a forum, and even a new blog which just posted it's first entry!

Please click the link to the blog below and have a look at the post:

“So, as a Zen Buddhist Priest, what do you believe?” “I believe it’s time to trim some nose hairs.”

The new Toledo Zen Center site link is posted on the new Drinking Gourd Dharma Circle blog above, so take a look while you're there...

Palms Together,

- Rinsen

More resources to look at for Haiti

2010-01-14T06:21:00.000-08:00

follow this link to read about other organizations. A good one is"Food for the Poor". It is a Christian based help organization that is specifically focused on this region of the world; they only use about 0.6% of funds for administration.

Monkey Mind: How to Help Out With Haitian Earthquake Relief

2010-01-13T15:21:00.000-08:00

Monkey Mind: How to Help Out With Haitian Earthquake Relief

Haiti Haiti

2010-01-13T15:11:00.001-08:00

the whole world hears you

our hearts and resources yours

in this One Body

TZC Jukai Update

2010-01-04T07:44:00.001-08:00

The Jukai process is about to start! The first of the three workshops is this Sunday Jan 10th from 9-noon and 1:30-4:30pm.

The folks who I have as registered for Jukai at this point are:

Phil Dickinson
Kathy Sorensen
Leigh Macaro
Rob Bondy
Simon-Morgan-Russell
Sara Worley
Timothy Okapal
Winifred Martin
Donna Diekoff
Erik Knapp
Janis Sati Sankowski
Chuck Greer
Michael Bruno
Catherine Mayes
Bob Bartels

If you are interested in receiving the precepts and have not yet connected with me please be in touch asap, Wednesday will be the last day for us to meet and discuss the possibility together. If you can't make it to the zen center Wednesday but are interested, we can set an appointment to connect via phone, skype or emails as well.

Palms Together.

- Jay

jayweik@gmail.com

Renewal

2010-01-02T15:20:00.001-08:00

Rohatsu Retreat

2009-12-14T08:46:00.000-08:00

Phil reminded us at that the end of our retreat that we have completed our first full year schedule. It is with such awe and humility that I look back on this year. What a blessing to receive and continue this unique and life giving container that is sesshin. How wonderful to have the opportunity, in the silent company of others, to sit down, stand up, walk, eat and attend to all the exigencies of our human condition with utter devotion to the mystery of What Is.

Coming into my 50th year I am starting to feel a bit nostalgic these days. I recall the sword wielding energy of sesshin with my first teacher, Richard Clarke. Back in the 80's he would use the kyosaku at will. I especially remember Daido Roshi, my second teacher, and his love of a pristine sesshin. Myotai Sensei seamlessly integrated Isabella into our 'family' sesshins at the Garrison Institute.

Each one a passionate expression of their commitment to the Dharma.

As with each generation...and now it has come down to us. May we as a sangha preserve and maintain its efficacy.

We Are All Connected

2009-12-13T13:19:00.001-08:00

Introduction to the Toledo Zen Center with Jay Rinsen Weik, Senior Dharma Teacher

2009-11-29T19:34:00.000-08:00

New Year's Eve Celebration

2009-11-29T15:26:00.000-08:00

Thursday, December 31, 2009 at Black Oak Farm.
Begins at 8:30 pm
The evening program begins at 8:30 pm. We will practice until midnight with both a year end and new year beginning liturgy, zazen, kinhin and Dokusan. Practice ends at midnight with the traditional 108 rings of the Great Bell. The evening will close with a bonfire and hot drink! The next morning we will rise at 8:00am to greet the day with zazen and Do-on's amazing breakfast.

Evening sitting, sleeping overnight in the zendo (bring your sleeping bag), morning sitting and breakfast: suggested donation $40; New Year’s Eve sitting only suggested donation: $20.

Advance registration is required.

Please send an email to info@toledozen.org to register.

Why Rohatsu Sesshin?

2009-11-29T13:44:00.000-08:00

Excerpted with permission from "Morning Dewdrops of the Mind: Teachings of a Contemporary Zen Master," published by North Atlantic Books/Frog, Ltd.

Every year when December approaches, monks everywhere tremble in anticipation of the arrival of the rohatsu sesshin
[intensive meditation retreat]. In Zen dojos
[practice halls] everywhere, people intensify their training energy in preparation for this sesshin held from the first to the eighth of December. The rohatsu sesshin is the consummation of a year's training, a time when everyone faces the final reckoning of a year of practice.

The Buddha was enlightened on the eighth of December when he looked up at the morning star, the planet we call Venus. The brightness of this planet was seen by Buddha from the depths of one week of samadhi
[deep awareness]. The Buddha received that brightness with the same eyes of zazen [sitting meditation] that enable us to realize perfect enlightenment.

One week straight of this deepest possible samadhi was burst through by the brilliance of that morning star. A whole week's experience of that world burst the brightness of the morning star, plunging into the Buddha's eyes and giving rebirth to the Buddha's consciousness.

He cried:

That's it! That's it! That's it. That's me! That's me that's shining so brilliantly!

How deeply he was moved and what wonder he felt. From this comes all of the Buddha's dharma. From within this state of mind the Buddha said:

How wondrous, how wondrous! All beings are endowed with this pure nature! What a wondrous, astonishing thing has been realized! All the ten thousand things, all the flowers, all the trees, all the rocks, all things everywhere are shining brilliantly! What an amazing thing! It's the same landscape, but how brilliantly it is illuminated! What freshness is everything!

From within this deep illumination of the mind of the Buddha, all the Buddha's wisdom was born. All of Zen is held within the deep impression of the Buddha's mind at that moment.

People vow to experience this very same experience of the Buddha as they approach the rohatsu sesshin. In every single Zen dojo, people put their lives on the line to be able to experience the exact same state of mind, on the eighth of December, as that of the Buddha. This is the firm vow with which they come to the rohatsu sesshin.

Sweaters for women and children

2009-11-29T05:07:00.000-08:00

At the party on December 6 we will be collecting wrapped women's and children's sweaters for a local shelter. Please indicate on the wrapping the size of the sweater.

We are so looking forward to seeing everyone.

Thanksgiving 2

2009-11-26T13:14:00.001-08:00

Please join us for Thanksgiving 2 on Saturday November 28 at Black Oak Farm for a potluck feast starting around 2:30. It would be great if you could bring a vegetable dish to pass. There will also be a basket to place canned goods that will be delivered to the NW Ohio foodbank. Bring something along to share with our less fortunate friends.

TZC Holiday Party

2009-11-22T07:40:00.000-08:00

Please join us at an open house holiday party at Black Oak Farm on Sunday December 6 from 2 till 7. For directions please email Do'on at karenweik@yahoo.com. It would be lovely if you could bring a dish to pass. Blessings.

TZC Schedule Update

2009-11-20T07:38:00.000-08:00

We have finally arranged our retreat schedule for 2010, though still in the works are additional intro to zen practice weekends and the next zen arts series. Below are the firm dates for the zazenkai/afternoon workshop and sesshin retreats.

Coming up this weekend is our last half day zazenkai and afternoon workshop of 2009 which will focus on the teachings of Silent Illumination of Zen Master Hongzhi. The sitting will be from 9-noon and the afternoon workshop will be from 1:30-4:30pm. The suggested donation is $25, but above all just come and participate in whatever you can of the day.

On December 6th, we will be hosting our annual Holiday celebration at Black Oak Farm from 2pm till whenever. Please bring a dish to share!

On December 11-13 we will hold our Rohatsu Sesshin retreat at Lourdes College. Registration forms for this retreat are available at the zen center or by email request.

The year 2010 will start with a big first for the sangha as we will have our Jukai retreat days and the ceremony with Melissa Myozen Blacker Sensei. To receive the precepts is a great step in one's practice, and there will be a full meal of training and preparations offered. Registration forms for those considering receiving the precepts are available at the zen center or by email request.

Here are the Toledo Zen Center retreat dates for 2010:

Jan 10 - Jukai Retreat Day 1 at the Toledo Zen Center

Jan 22-24 - Jukai Retreat Days 2-4 at Lourdes College.

Feb 25-28 - Jukai Retreat Days and Ceremony With Melissa Sensei 5-8 at Lourdes College.

March 7 - Half Day Zazenkai 9-noon and afternoon workshop 1:30-4:30pm.

Apr 22-25 Sesshin at Lourdes College.

May 16 - Half Day Zazenkai 9-noon and afternoon workshop 1:30-4:30pm.

Jun 17-20 - Sesshin at Lourdes College.

Jul 11- Half Day Zazenkai 9-noon and afternoon workshop 1:30-4:40pm.

Aug 26-29 Sesshin at Lourdes College.

Sep 5 - Half Day Zazenkai 9-noon and afternoon workshop 1:30-4:30pm.

Oct 21-24 Sesshin at Lourdes College.

Nov 7 - Half Day Zazenkai 9-noon and afternoon workshop 1:30-4:30pm.

Dec 2-5 - Sesshin at Lourdes College.

In other news, we are working diligently on creating a new website complete with forums, information for beginners and a dharma store. We have the initial version in place and are now shaping the details, so look for the update notification soon!

Palms Together,

- Jay and Karen

Charter for Compassion

2009-11-12T07:22:00.000-08:00

Coupon

2009-11-06T12:31:00.000-08:00

Please use this link to get a 30% off coupon at the Libbey Glass outlet store. Just go to the site and print it out! Enjoy!

http://toledostore.libbey.com/

Jukai Dates and Reading

2009-10-30T00:26:00.000-07:00

The dates for the Jukai retreat and ceremony have been set for February 25-28, 2010. The three texts that James Melissa and David have held up for us to study together are The Mind of Clover by Robert Aitken, Being Upright by Reb Anderson, and Waking Up to What You Do by Diane Rizzetto. For those who are interested in taking the precepts, there will be a form to fill out the next time you are in the zendo for practice, and please bring a somewhat current picture of yourself that can go in your file - it doesn't have to be formal and it will never be shown, but is just for in house reference. If you live at a distance I can email the form to you, just get in touch.

Palms Together,

- Jay

Facing Fear

2009-10-29T21:29:00.000-07:00

Jay Rinsen Weik gives a talk and leads discussion at the Toledo Zen Center on December 3, 2008.

"The Supreme Way is not difficult; it just precludes picking and choosing. Without yearning or loathing, The Way is perfectly apparent, while even a hair's breadth difference separates heaven and earth. To see The Way with your own eyes, quit agreeing and disagreeing. The battle of likes and dislikes is the disease of the mind."

--Seng-ts'an, "Relying on Mind"

Listen HERE.

Recent TZC activity

2009-10-27T19:32:00.000-07:00

We had a great time at Black Oak Farm when the sangha gathered for a pot luck party on October 17. The following week on Thursday, October 22, Do'on represented TZC at an interfaith convocation on healthcare reform sponsored by the Village Church in Toledo. The following day we entered into a zazenkai at Lourdes College for the weekend. A special thanks to the good sisters of St. Francis for hosting us. After the retreat on Sunday Rinsen and Do'on attended the interfaith harvest festival celebration at the Monroe St church where Rinsen sat on a panel with Congresswomen Marcy Kaptur. Toledo is engaging in a highly successful urban gardening project that brings together at risk youth, gardeners, farmers, gleaners, peace activists and religious groups.

Sangha Knitting Project for the Homeless!

2009-10-18T11:34:00.000-07:00

Leigh has volunteered to teach those who are interested in learning how to knit scarves and hats so that we may donate them to the needy in our area. Interested? Connect with Sati (janis_sankowski@yahoo.com) We are thinking to create a knitting circle...

Pai Chang: Detach From All Things

2009-10-17T13:10:00.000-07:00

Jay Rinsen Weik gives a talk and leads discussion at the Toledo Zen Center on November 26, 2008.

"The teachings of the Three Vehicles all cure diseases such as greed and hatred. Right now, thought after thought, if you have such sickness as greed or hatred, you should first cure them. Don't seek intellectual understanding of meanings and expressions. Understanding is in the province of desire, and desire turns into disease. Right now, just detach from all things, existent or nonexistent, and even detach from detachment."
- Pai Chang

Listen in Here.

Party on the Farm

2009-10-16T06:17:00.000-07:00

We are having a pot luck party at Black Oak Farm on Sunday, October 18. from 2:00 to 6:00. Sati has started a list of food folks are bringing. We are looking forward to seeing everyone.

Persephone is descending and we are burning the brush pile to light her way. In other words, Welcome Fall.

THE ART OF CONVERSATION: A Reflection on Spiritual Practices in Liberal Churches

2009-10-11T15:59:00.000-07:00

Monkey Mind: THE ART OF CONVERSATION: A Reflection on Spiritual Practices in Liberal Churches

Sangha - In light of our recent efforts with the small circle community meetings, I would like to hold up this post from my teacher and friend James Ford Roshi.

Joya and I met today and discussed several points along the lines outlined here for these meetings, so please look for her guidance with the ongoing formation of the groups.

Palms Together,

- Jay

For Daido

2009-10-11T06:12:00.000-07:00

on grey river shoals

a blue heron spreads his wings

good bye toothy smile

The Great Leap: John Daido Loori Roshi

2009-10-09T07:29:00.000-07:00

Sangha - I just got word that Daido passed away at 9:30am this morning. He was my first Zen teacher, and I will always be grateful to him. May the good that he did continue to grow and flourish, and may our practice be strong.

- Jay

TZC Zazenkai Retreat Oct 23-25

2009-10-08T18:59:00.000-07:00

Already, its closing in on retreat time again. Please register with a comment below if you plan to attend.

Some information on the upcoming TZC Community Retreat:

Location:

Regina Center on the campus of the Sisters of St. Francis, Sylvania, Ohio at Lourdes College.

A Pdf map is HERE We are in building 17, just behind building 12 on this map. General directions to the Lourdes College campus are HERE.

What to Bring:

Bowl (Cereal bowl size), Napkin, Coffee/Tea Mug, Spoon. Zafu & Zabuton (bring extras if you have them). Toiletries.
No books or reading material.

How to Register:

Send an email to Rinsen@toledozen.org, leave a comment to this post, or call (419) 861-1163.

Schedule:

Friday

05:30-06:00pm Check in
06:00pm Orientation
07:00pm Precautions/Opening Comments
07:30pm Kinhin
07:40pm Zazen
08:10pm Kinhin
08:20pm Zazen/Bodhisattvha Vows/Evening Gatha

Saturday

06:00am Wake up
06:30am Zazen
07:00am Kinhin
07:10am Zazen
07:40am Kinhin
07:50am Zazen/Verse of the Kesa
08:30am Morning Liturgy
08:50am Morning Meal
09:35am Caretaking
10:50am Zazen
11:20am Kinhin
11:30am Zazen
12:00pm Afternoon Liturgy
12:20pm Midday Meal
01:00pm Rest Practice
02:00pm Zazen
02:30pm Kinhin
02:40pm Zazen
03:10pm Kinhin
03:30pm Rinsen's Talk
03:50pm Practice Discussion
04:10pm Extended Outside Kinhin (Weather Permitting)
04:30pm Zazen
05:00 Evening Liturgy
05:20pm Evening Meal
06:00pm Rest Practice
07:00pm Zazen
07:30pm Kinhin
07:40pm Zazen
08:10pm Kinhin
08:20pm Zazen/Bodhisattvha Vows/Evening Gatha
09:00pm Open Zendo
09:30pm Lights Out

Sunday

06:00am Wake Up
06:30am Dawn Zazen
07:00am Kinhin
07:10am Zazen/Verse of the Kesa
07:50am Kinhin
08:00am Open Sozan
08:30am Daikaijo
08:40am Informal Breakfast
09:35am Caretaking
10:00am Morning Service
10:30am Zazen
11:00am Kinhin
11:10am Rinsen's Talk
12:oopm Finish

Please note that a few have asked if they may join in a portion of this schedule, and the answer is that while participation in the whole weekend is preferable, you may join for any part of the retreat, so yes. We just need to know in advance so that arrangements can be made for you. If you would like to do a part of this retreat, leave a comment below, and be sure to include your email address so we can be in touch to confirm the detials.

Cost:

Dana of $155.00 for the weekend covers retreat fees, room and board.

Registered:

Janis Sati Sandowski
Deb Goldberg
Leigh Macaro
Winifred Martin
Sarah Worley
Lashaun Peal
Karen Do'on Weik
Erik Knapp (partial)
Ron Waxell
Doug Baldwin
Donna Diekoff
Michael Bauno
Jim Grant
Chuck Greer
Simon Monsho Morgan-Russell
Phil Dickinson
Jay Rinsen Weik
Kevin Chigan Frasier
Chitranjan Greer Travis
Joya DCruz

Keeping Daido in my Heart

2009-10-07T13:22:00.000-07:00

tall withered corn stalk

vault blue sky golden light breeze

Daido is heaven

Kakutani Sensei

2009-09-29T14:06:00.000-07:00

A few more pictures from the Zen arts Saturday get together at the Weik farm:

Encountering the Ancestors: Pai Chang (part 3 of 3)

2009-09-24T19:32:00.000-07:00

Jay Rinsen Weik leads a retreat workshop at the Toledo Zen Center on November 16, 2008.

"This principle is originally present in everyone. All the Buddhas and bodhisattvas may be called people pointing out a jewel. Fundamentally, it is not a thing - you don't need to know or understand it, you don't need to affirm or deny it. Just cut off dualism; cut off the supposition 'it exists' and the supposition 'it does not exist.' Cut off the supposition 'it is nonexistent' and the supposition 'it is not nonexistent.' When traces do not appear on either side, then neither lack nor sufficiency, neither profane nor holy, not light or dark. This is not having knowledge, yet not lacking knowledge, not bondage, not liberation. It is not any name or category at all. Why is this not true speech? How can you carve and polish emptiness to make an image of Buddha? How can you say that emptiness is blue, yellow, red or white?"

Listen HERE.

Burns and Allen

2009-09-22T18:06:00.000-07:00

I said something about Burns and Allen at the zendo the other night. They were very popular way back, going back to Vaudeville days. I think there is something very sweet from a more innocent time, and maybe Zen, too, especially about the socks...enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NW6GWEi3g3U

Thank you Kakutani Sensei

2009-09-19T17:19:00.000-07:00

Sensei lead us in a paper, mold and calligraphy workshop at Black Oak Farm on a gorgeous mid September day. Following morning zazen we shared in a hands on experience of turning pulp into paper. Along the way we found a fallen hornets nest that made its way into some of our paper while the children made plaster globes out of balloon molds. Sensei showed us how to make a rope out of long grass that he then coiled to make a mold for a torn paper bowl.

Later in the afternoon we created molds out of styrofoam by writing on the board with an ink/clay slip that kept the image intact when we melted the rest of the board over a fire. We then shaped the paper over the styrofoam mold. Sensei 's generous practice of using what is at hand and harmonizing with mistakes is such a wonderful expression of the world coming to rest as one's own heart.

Music and Life: Alan Watts

2009-09-18T18:37:00.000-07:00

James and Jay at the Toledo Zen Center September 16th 2009

2009-09-18T08:29:00.000-07:00

Thanks for Chelsea for the pic!

Encountering the Ancestors: Pai Chang (part 2 of 3)

2009-09-17T20:34:00.000-07:00

Jay Rinsen Weik leads a retreat workshop at the Toledo Zen Center on November 16, 2008.

"In the teaching hall, the master said, 'The spiritual light shines alone, far transcending the senses and their fields. The essential substance is exposed, real and eternal. It is not contained in written words. The nature of mind has no defilement; it is basically perfect and complete in itself. Just get rid of delusive attachments and merge with the realization of thusness.'"

Listen HERE.

Zen Pottery workshop with Kakutani Sensei

2009-09-17T18:55:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder we are set to begin at 9:00 on Saturday and end around 5:00. The address for the farm is: Black Oak Farm 6624 Jeffers Rd Swanton OH 43558. See you then!

James Ford Roshi at the Toledo Zen Center

2009-09-17T08:07:00.000-07:00

Thank you Roshi for your wisdom, wit and charm.

2009-09-15T06:03:00.000-07:00

mid september night

shined horses crickets scratching

on God's pillow stars

Zen Meditation Video

2009-09-12T05:16:00.000-07:00

A nice general introduction from the Zen Centre of Vancouver, thanks to James Ford for passing on the link...

2009-09-09T06:57:00.000-07:00

an ant runs towards

the shadow of a white plate

frightened mind same thing

2009-09-09T06:54:00.000-07:00

late summer twilight

a rhododendron blushes

our table is set

2009-09-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

on a rainy night

the sound of crickets lays down

inside out none say

perfection is you, nothing lacking...

2009-09-03T12:01:00.000-07:00

If you look to others for fulfillment, you will never truly be fulfilled. If your happiness depends on money, you will never be happy with yourself. Be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you.
~Lao Tzu

Kakutani Sensei Returns

2009-09-02T05:00:00.000-07:00

Master Potter Mitsuo Kakutani will lead a zen arts workshop at Black Oak Farm on Sept. 19 from 9-5. This time we will be making our own paper to incorporate into the clay. The suggested donation for this event is $35=$50. As always everyone is welcomed regardless of capacity to financially donate. The gathering of the Sangha is in itself the Great Gift to All. Please email or register in person on Wednesday night.

James Ford Roshi at the Toledo Zen Center Sept 16th.

2009-08-30T20:48:00.000-07:00

I am very happy to announce that on September 16th starting at 7:15pm, James
Ford Roshi will be visiting the Toledo Zen Center! As you may
know, James is my primary Zen teacher and is a Dharma successor
to John Tarrant Roshi who is the first successor in the Aitken line. James is also
the Founder of the Boundless Way sangha. James is simply a joy to
encounter, has been of immeasurable help to me, and is deeply resonant with our
practice here in Toledo.

We have decided not to try and make a big splash in the local
media, but instead we hope to have an intimate gathering with our current
sangha and friends.

This is an incredibly rare opportunity to meet with James, and I
would like to personally encourage you to set the time aside to be
present. We are suggesting a $20 donation to help cover James flights, but
above all just come.

Contact info@toledozen.org if you have questions.

Palms Together,

- Jay

Pic Slideshow from the TZC Intro to Zen Training Weekend August 2009.

2009-08-24T20:07:00.000-07:00

Thanks Karen Berry for the great job with these pics!

Group Pic from the Zen Intro Weekend!

2009-08-24T06:02:00.000-07:00

Wonderful to practice with old friends and new! Special thanks to Do'on for the amazing food, all the folks who helped with the set up and break down, and the good sisters of St/ Francis for their warm hospitality.

An Interview with Jay Weik for the Toledo Evolutionary Bodywork Alliance

2009-08-20T18:40:00.000-07:00

This is a new video about both the Aikido dojo and the Zen Center that is from a local group I have helped create called the Toledo Evolutionary Bodywork Alliance. It is made up of a number of resonant folks who have banded together to help increase community awareness of what we do, including yoga, massage, hypnotherapy, energy healing and Nia. I hope you enjoy!

- Jay

Zen and the Art of Pizza

2009-08-20T08:49:00.000-07:00

The revamped pizza place on BGSU's campus has a clever new name (2.mato) and logo. As you can see, the tomato is a red enso, which I guess symbolises the emptiness in your pocket after you've shelled out for a couple of slices. Or perhaps the enlightenment that pepperoni brings?

John Tarrant on Working with Koans

2009-08-18T12:12:00.000-07:00

http://monkeymindonline.blogspot.com/2009/08/john-tarrant-on-working-with-koans.html

A beautiful bit on Koan study from my teachers teacher, great timing for those in our sangha who are beginning to swim in these waters!

Palms Together,

- Rin

First Steps: An Introduction to Zen Practice Weekend Retreat: August 21-23

2009-08-17T08:36:00.000-07:00

This weekend retreat with Rinsen and the Toledo Zen Center sangha is designed for those who are new to Zen practice, and will provide a rich opportunity to investigate its most important aspects. Many have read books on Zen or been doing meditation on their own, but in this retreat you will have the opportunity to experience for yourself what the teachings are pointing to with an experienced guide and a community of like-minded people.

More information on this retreat is posted HERE.

Posted below are those whom I have as registered at this time. If you need to adjust please send me an email: Rinsen@ToledoZen.org

Registered:

Jay Rinsen Weik
Karen Do'on Weik
Karen Berry
Elisabeth Jun'en Allen
Rob Bondy
Julie Bondy
Craig Schisler
Douglas Baldwin
Jim Grant
Janis Sati Sankowski
Simon Monsho
Winifred Martin
Phil Dickinson
Kathy Sorensen
Jim Sorensen
Sarah Worley
Leigh Macaro
Susan Purviance (Fri/Sat only)
ROBERT L ADKINS
TIM OKAPAL

Thank you Dr. Smith

2009-08-10T07:15:00.001-07:00

This weekend we had the honor of creating and listening to zen poetry with Dr. Larry Smith from Sandusky Ohio. In the midst of a light summer rain Larry read from older and contemporary poets to give us a flavor of the zen style. He urged us to write from within the images rather than talking around them. We sat patiently for our subject to present and express itself. Then had the great pleasure and agony of rendering it in 5-7-5. After we read to each other we placed them in the middle of enso's drawn earlier in the morning.

In the afternoon Larry gave a reading from a book of Ryokan's poetry he has translated in Japanese, Chinese and English to the sounds of the shakuhatchi. He recounted an event he participated in at the Thoreau society wherein he read Ryokan's work and a Thoreau impersonator responded in kind with Thoreau's words from the Woods.

Jay and I were married by Walden pond....It occurs to me that we are all still part of the conversation started by our transcendentalist ancestors. I think they would be pleased in how we are taking up the project....

Photos from the Zen Arts Weekend with Dr. Larry Smith

2009-08-10T05:40:00.000-07:00

Sesshin with the Boundless Way Sangha

2009-08-07T09:04:00.000-07:00

From July 25th through the 31st, I had the opportunity to practice sesshin with the Boundless Way sangha and my teachers James Ford, Melissa Blacker, and David Rynick.

James made some great comments about the sesshin that are posted here.

Of the many gifts that I am able to bring back from this retreat to our sangha here in Toledo is- at long last - an authentic and whole route to receiving the precepts. Melissa Blacker Sensei has agreed to travel here and be our preceptor, and this lineage is very much in alignment with the practice here in Toledo. The details of when are still at play as of this writing, but that a path has opened for this is a great gift and opportunity for us all. If you are interested in leaning more about the precepts and what is involved bring your questions to the zendo and we will cover them during our community discussion time.

May our practice be strong and loving,

- Jay

A special thank you

2009-08-02T21:20:00.000-07:00

We were blessed to have a weekend of zen pottery with Kakutani Sensei. He has a most extraordinary style of creating nurtured in the free jazz and abstract expressionism of New York in the early 60's and distilled in the open skies of the Midwest. Sensei lead us into what can truly be described as the dance of clay: he would use his head as mold, or a foot, an elbow or a knee. It seemed in a flash, with a few masterful strokes, he created an amazing piece and then just as quickly dashed it on his work board with out a trace of regret; only to create yet another gorgeous object. Completely embodying whole mind/ whole body integration, his demonstrations awakened the possibility in us. Being in his presence gave us the freedom to just create and enjoy. Frequently, he reminded us that work makes other work. Not to worry to much. Use what is at hand. Trust our intuition. No rule.

Photos from the Zen Arts Weekend with Kakutani Sensei

2009-08-02T21:11:00.001-07:00

Photos from the Zen Arts Weekend

2009-07-22T07:39:00.000-07:00

The Zen Arts Series started this past weekend. On Friday Rinsen gave an introductory talk on the unique character of the Zen Arts. The following day, in partnership with Maumee Slow Foods, we looked at the practice of oryoki. An exegesis of the meal chant enriched our appreciation of this simple and elegant liturgy. There were many " Aha, so that is what that is expressing moments."

In the evening sangha members attended a gig at Caffeini's, a coffee shop owned by a TZC sangha member. Rinsen, Kyomon and another friend, Chris Schaub played free jazz and groove music

The next day folks gathered to encounter musicianship and the spiritual path. We were lead through exercises in deep listening and sounding without judgement as well as zazen. In the afternoon we 'played' our instruments out of the deep trust and intuition of the moment. Each participant also got a chance to conduct the group. From this workshop the Toledo Zen Arts Ensemble has been born. Watch for more to come....

A special thank you to Kyomon and Renso for helping out this weekend. As in the best of times there was much belly laughter and deep study. So much gratitude fills my heart as I think about all my dharma friends.

Sound Zen

2009-07-20T05:34:00.000-07:00

I usually hang out blogwise on the Aikido side of the Zen Center webpage but I just felt compelled to share my thoughts and feelings on the workshop we had at the Zen Center/dojo this past weekend. It was a wonderful day at the dojo as part of a series workshops being presented centering around different aspects of Zen. This special workshop today was of particular interest to me as music and sound is the way that I make my livelihood. The workshop was led by Jay Sensei and John Kyomon Wieczorek who is a freelance percussionist visiting from New York. He and Jay Sensei have gigged together and have shared Zen retreats together along their path. So much of what I do in music in my life as a conductor is structured and follows a very narrow musical highway. The musicians must play the right notes and rhythms as an example of this. It really got me thinking about what is the “rightness” in sound, music and art. When does sound become music? Are all sounds music?

Labels and judgment are such major factors in music regardless of what genre you listen. For example, “that is out of tune”, “the trombones are behind” or “man, he is a really good player” having the need to put a label on what was just heard. For me the workshop was a pathway to try to work away from that judgment and the placement of labels on elements of music and in life. When we place a label or a judgment on someone or something we actually limit our ability to see it evolve because we have it “figured out”. So if they change, we don’t always perceive it immediately if ever. I learned early on in my teaching career to be careful about telling young people they aren’t capable of doing something because so often they will prove you wrong. People’s capacity to change, grow, evolve is only limited by their mind. And often the desire to do it “right” is what gets in our way of reaching our full potential. We hold ourselves back for whatever reason.

I find this to be true in Aikido as well. Not to be governed by fear or doing the technic correct. (Although I have found on occasion it is good when falling to land “correctly” otherwise the mat will happily offer a not so gentle correction. LOL) Move in life down a path of mindfulness. Being really present on the mat or the stage or with my parents etc leads to living life truly honestly. To be in the moment and not in fear of messing up, or playing a wrong note leads to real intimacy with whatever you are doing. When there is the space and openness of non judgment it allows people to share and open up with what they are about AND most importantly to share what is inside of them which in turn creates an intimacy circuit of giving and receiving. Both Sensei and John created an open space for all of us express ourselves and dig into what we are about by using the vehicle of sound. Many thanks to John Kyomon Wieczorek for sharing his thoughts and talents with us. There are many other workshops and you should definitely come and check them out. It will be time well spent.

Peace

The Maestro (There I go labeling myself, LOL)

Multifaith picnic feasts on diversity

2009-07-13T21:35:00.000-07:00

Karen Do'on Weik, a Zen Buddhist, and Ed Heilman, minister at Park United Church of Christ, preside over a moment of silence at the gathering of almost 100 at the seventh annual event.
( THE BLADE/JEREMY WADSWORTH )

Karen Do'on Weik, co-founder of the Toledo Zen Center, said she believes the picnic is a great way for people to come together.
"The important thing is that we come together to share our stories, for fellowship, and to enjoy each other's company," she said, adding that she was enjoying herself, and the food, immensely.

The full article from the Toledo Blade is available online HERE.

An Invitation from Rinsen

2009-07-03T17:00:00.000-07:00

There Is No Other Thing.

2009-06-25T19:32:00.000-07:00

Jay Rinsen Weik gives a talk and leads discussion at the Toledo Zen Center on October 8, 2008.

When Ch'an Master Wu-yeh of Fen-chou went to see the Ancestor (Ma-Tsu), the Ancestor noticed that his apperance was extraordinary and that his voice was like (the sound of) a bell. He said, "Such an imposing Buddha hall, but no Buddha in it."

We-yeh respectfully kneeled down, and said, "I have studied the texts that contain the teachings of the Three Vehicles and have been able to roughly understand their meaning. I have also often heard about the teaching of the Ch'an school that mind is Buddha: this is something I have not yet been able to understand."

The Ancestor said, "This very mind that does not understand is it. There is no other thing."

- The Teachings of Ma-Tsu.

Summertime!

2009-06-20T19:08:00.000-07:00

Summertime and the livin' is easy
Fish are jumpin' and the cotton is high
Oh you Daddy's rich and you ma is good lookin'
So hush little baby, don't you cry

One of these mornings
You're goin' to rise up singing
Then you'll spread your wings
And you'll take to the sky
But till that morning
There's a nothin' can harm you
With daddy and mammy standin' by

Thoughts Don't Originally Exist

2009-06-16T20:19:00.000-07:00

Jay Rinsen Weik gives a talk and leads discussion at the Toledo Zen Center on September 24, 2008.

"A Layman asked: 'I'm grateful for your teaching of the unborn, but I find that thoughts easily come up as a result of my ingrained bad habits, and when I'm distracted by them, I can't wholeheartedly realize the unborn. How can I put my faith totally in the unborn Buddha Mind?'

"The Master said: 'When you try to stop your rising thoughts, you create a duality between the mind that does the stopping and the mind that's being stopped, so you'll never have peace of mind. Just have faith that thoughts don't originally exist, but only arise and cease temporarily in response to what you see and hear without any actual substance of their own.'"

- From Master Bankei's Hogo Instructions: Duality.

Listen to the podcast HERE.

Artless Arts of Zen: A Summer Workshop Series

2009-06-15T10:43:00.000-07:00

For a fuller overview of this series, registration information and complete details on each of the events be sure to click here.

July 17
The Artless Arts of Zen:
An Introductory Talk
with Rinsen and Do'on Weik
7 to 9 pm Free

July 18
Just Eating: The Art of Oryoki
w/Rinsen & Slow Food Maumee Valley
9 to 5
www.slowfoodmaumeevalley.blogspot.com

July 19
Musicianship and the Spiritual Path
with Rinsen and Kyomon
9 to noon and 2 to 5pm

August 1,2
Shaped by Earth: The Art of Tea Bowls
with Mitsuo Kakutani
9 to 12 & 2 to 5 pm

August 8
The Stone Woman Speaks:Poetry as Spiritual Practice
Dr. Larry smith
9-noon and 2-5pm

August 15, 16
Brush Mind, Brush Heart
with Kaz Tanahashi
9 to 12 & 2 to 5pm

August 21, 22, 21
First Steps: An Introduction to Zen Practice Weekend Retreat
with Rinsen and TZC sangha at Lourdes College

New Drinking Gourd Podcast

2009-06-11T22:22:00.000-07:00

What Is It That Is Difficult For You To Accept?
Jay Rinsen Weik gives a talk and leads discussion at the Toledo Zen Center on September 17, 2008.

"Well, the interesting thing is, that where that difficulty is, when
you're honest, is the edge of our practice. That's where the edge is
for you."
- Rinsen

For more information about the Toledo Zen Center, please visit toledozen.org.

New Drinking Gourd Podcast

2009-06-10T21:49:00.000-07:00

Shih-T'ou's Song of the Grass Roof Hermitage (2 of 2)

Jay Rinsen Weik gives a talk and leads discussion at the Toledo Zen Center on September 3, 2008.

"Turn around the light to shine within, then just return.
The vast inconceivable source can't be faced or turned away from.
Meet the ancestral teachers, be familiar with their instruction,
bind grasses to build a hut, and don't give up.
Let go of hundreds of years and relax completely.
Open your hands and walk, innocent."
- Shih-Tou

Liturgy council

2009-06-10T19:09:00.000-07:00

Sangha,

Rinsen has tapped me to head a liturgy council. If you've ever wanted to add to your practice by doing instruments, leading the chants, or even learning how to ush better as an usher, this is the time to step forward. We will be setting up a time soon to do a training session of an hour or so some afternoon/evening. Please, despite all the humor we interject into the subject of liturgy, and there are lots of opportunities for THAT, consider the practice. We need to have enough people that are comfortable with the entire spectrum of service positions so we are not enlisting someone at the last minute. Leave a comment on this blog, see me next Wednesday, or let Rinsen know of your interest, but I would like this to happen soon before we are into the lecture/workshop series. Rinsen, please start looking at available times for this to happen with you, as I think it's vital you are there.

Gassho,

Chuck Greer

Sesshin just past

2009-06-09T14:33:00.001-07:00

What a wonderful weekend. I almost picked up and left on Saturday, but somehow made it through the doldrums. Damn monkey mind!! Besides, I would have missed hearing a drum made out of an old 5 gallon plastic bucket, or realizing that the thing the Buddha figure in the interview room was sitting on was, in fact, an upside-down soup pot with a cloth covering it...gotta love it!! As Rinsin said in the talk, the ancients crossed seas and traversed mountains for the chance to hear a phrase or two, so we should be able to sit our zazen and suffer a little and maybe catch a glimpse of...something words don't touch.

Life and Death are of Supreme Importance:

2009-06-02T22:00:00.000-07:00

Made over 100 years ago, this footage shows a number of scenes shot around central London.

Drink from the newest Drinking Gourd Podcast HERE

Yogis of Tibet

2009-05-30T21:28:00.000-07:00

Amazing footage at 39:40, but watch the whole thing when you can!

Winter's Tang

2009-05-26T05:53:00.000-07:00

is nowhere

to be found

on the sweet

honeysuckle breeze

Just yesterday

these leaves

were all tender

and droopy

Now

they hold up the tree

Zazenkai - Weekend Intensive June 5-7

2009-05-23T09:15:00.000-07:00

Already, its closing in on retreat time again. Please register with a comment below if you plan to attend.

Some information on the upcoming TZC Community Retreat:

Location:

Regina Center on the campus of the Sisters of St. Francis, Sylvania, Ohio at Lourdes College.

A Pdf map is HERE We are in building 17, just behind building 12 on this map. General directions to the Lourdes College campus are HERE.

What to Bring:

Bowl (Cereal bowl size), Napkin, Coffee/Tea Mug, Spoon. Zafu & Zabuton (bring extras if you have them). Toiletries.
No books or reading material.

How to Register:

Send an email to Rinsen@toledozen.org, leave a comment to this post, or call (419) 861-1163.

Schedule:

Friday

05:30-06:00pm Check in
06:00pm Orientation
07:00pm Precautions/Opening Comments
07:30pm Kinhin
07:40pm Zazen
08:10pm Kinhin
08:20pm Zazen/Bodhisattvha Vows/Evening Gatha

Saturday

06:00am Wake up
06:30am Zazen
07:00am Kinhin
07:10am Zazen
07:40am Kinhin
07:50am Zazen/Verse of the Kesa
08:30am Morning Liturgy
08:50am Morning Meal
09:35am Caretaking
10:50am Zazen
11:20am Kinhin
11:30am Zazen
12:00pm Afternoon Liturgy
12:20pm Midday Meal
01:00pm Rest Practice
02:00pm Zazen
02:30pm Kinhin
02:40pm Zazen
03:10pm Kinhin
03:30pm Rinsen's Talk
03:50pm Practice Discussion
04:10pm Extended Outside Kinhin (Weather Permitting)
04:30pm Zazen
05:00 Evening Liturgy
05:20pm Evening Meal
06:00pm Rest Practice
07:00pm Zazen
07:30pm Kinhin
07:40pm Zazen
08:10pm Kinhin
08:20pm Zazen/Bodhisattvha Vows/Evening Gatha
09:00pm Open Zendo
09:30pm Lights Out

Sunday

06:00am Wake Up
06:30am Dawn Zazen
07:00am Kinhin
07:10am Zazen/Verse of the Kesa
07:50am Kinhin
08:00am Open Sozan
08:30am Daikaijo
08:40am Informal Breakfast
09:35am Caretaking
10:00am Morning Service
10:30am Zazen
11:00am Kinhin
11:10am Rinsen's Talk
12:oopm Finish

Please note that a few have asked if they may join in a portion of this schedule, and the answer is that while participation in the whole weekend is preferable, you may join for any part of the retreat, so yes. We just need to know in advance so that arrangements can be made for you. If you would like to do a part of this retreat, leave a comment below, and be sure to include your email address so we can be in touch to confirm the detials.

Cost:

Dana of $155.00 for the weekend covers retreat fees, room and board.

Current Participant List:

Rinsen Weik - All - Practice Leader
Do'on Weik - All - Tenzo
Jun'en - All - Officiant
Erik Knapp - All - Server
Victor Van Deilen - All - Server
Angela Macek - All - Percussion
Phil - All - Jisha
Leigh - All - Ino
Tim - All - Usher
Kathy Sorensen - All - Doan
Chuck Greer - All - Instrumentalist
Rob Bondy - All - Pm Jikido
Sou Fugon - All
Joya - All - Am Jikido

Rock Tea

2009-05-23T05:56:00.001-07:00

a poem sent to me by Debbie Goldberg, from "The Writer's Almanac". Enjoy.

Rock Tea
by Gary Gildner
At a hot springs in Sawtooth Mountains 8,000 feet above the level sea,
my two-year-old daughter enters the steamy shallows, and sings
I'm naked! I'm naked! And clings to herselfas if the pink body under her slender arms might slip away.
I do not want her to slip away, not ever,but I know one day she will. I know
one day she will put on her snow bootsand take up the trail in earnest—
and I will call out I am happy for her, very happy, but sad too,
and hope I will see her again.
From the pool's moony wash she brings me her cupped hands. Rock tea, Papa, you like some?
I cup her hands in my own, and drink. It is delicious, I say,
more delicious than air itself, than life, may I have another?
And perhaps you will have one too? Perhaps, thank you,
In this way, gently over rock tea,we celebrate how far we have traveled together.
"Rock Tea" by Gary Gildner, from Cleaning a Rainbow. © BkMk Press, 2007.

An open window

2009-05-15T08:20:00.000-07:00

garlands of incense

lift a quiet eye

on dappled green boughs

sweet whistle of birds

oh heart, tis a sunny day

Living the Bodhisattva Life: Transforming Anger, Awakening Patience.

2009-05-14T10:20:00.000-07:00

The Toledo Zen Center presents an afternoon workshop with Rinsen Sunday May 24th from 1:30-4:30pm. This is the second in a series of workshops in which we will work with the seemingly paradoxical way a Boshisattva lives in the world. This event is open to the public, no registration is required. The suggested free will donation is $25.

"With the thorn of anger still lodged in the heart, there can be neither peace, nor joy, nor true action."
- Rinsen

April in Ohio

2009-05-06T06:11:00.000-07:00

for us

tender green leaves

the green heart comes

gnats hang around

take a step

Everything Touches

Deep Bows to Kevin, James, Melissa and David!

2009-04-30T08:54:00.000-07:00

After our zazenkai retreat at Lourdes college, I was lucky to be able to travel to study with some really wonderful teachers.

First, I spent three days at St. Josephs Abbey in Spencer MA with Father Kevin Hunt Sensei. Kevin Jiun Hunt, OCSO, Sensei was certified as teacher of zen in 2005 by Roshi Robert Jinsen Kennedy, student of Bernard Tetsugen Glassman and Maezumi Roshi (White Plum Sangha). He is a deep and generous teacher of the Dharma, and can't say enough about being able to practice with him. Most of the time, I participated in the Cistercian Monastic schedule - which centers in the traditional western monastic practice of chanting the psalter. Once a day I was able to meet with Kevin in dokusan. In addition to the shikantaza/koan work we have been doing together, Kevin Sensei has a particular grasp of the Christian Mystical tradition and has helped me integrate my Catholic upbringing and the western traditions wisdom.

Then I joined the Boudless Way sangha for a three day sesshin held in New Hampshire. The sangha and teachers were most welcoming and the practice was wonderful. The three teachers James (not present in this picture), Melissa and David worked together as one with an incredibly generous spirit.

Deep Bows to all!

- Rin

A Post from Phil about Larry Smith

2009-04-29T06:54:00.000-07:00

I’ve included the poem (italicized below) I received from Larry Smith; could you post it the blog (I asked him, of course, and he was happy for us to do so).

Here’s a link to the sitting group Larry is involved with: Converging Paths Sandusky Bay Meditation Center

And a link to the Amazon page for Larry’s The Kanshi Poems of Taigu Ryokan

Maybe you could post this too?

Thanks,

-P

Here's a morning poem...which might set the tone of my talk in Toledo this summer, so you know me.

Reclaiming the Sacred
“To me, poetry is being here with you.”
-Ko Un (Korean poet)

Again and again we sit
along the edge of day
in solitude together…
Listening to all
that’s not being said:
mute heart’s song of silence,
soft breath of wind inside us.
-Larry

Larry Smith
BGSU Firelands College

Photos from TZC retreat and our travels

2009-04-29T06:47:00.001-07:00

Retreat Prep Help?

2009-04-16T07:49:00.000-07:00

If anyone is able, please meet at the zendo at 1pm to help transport things to the retreat site. Please leave a comment below if you are planning to help out.

Bows,

- Rin

Zazenkai - Weekend Intensive April 17-19

2009-04-10T20:41:00.000-07:00

Some information on the upcoming TZC Community Retreat:

Location:

Regina Center on the campus of the Sisters of St. Francis, Sylvania, Ohio at Lourdes College.

A Pdf map is HERE We are in building 17, just behind building 12 on this map. General directions to the Lourdes College campus are HERE.

What to Bring:

Bowl (Cereal bowl size), Napkin, Coffee/Tea Mug, Spoon. Zafu & Zabuton (bring extras if you have them). Toiletries.
No books or reading material.

How to Register:

Send an email to Rinsen@toledozen.org, leave a comment to this post, or call (419) 861-1163.

Schedule:

Friday

05:30-06:00pm Check in
06:00pm Orientation
07:00pm Precautions/Opening Comments
07:30pm Kinhin
07:40pm Zazen
08:10pm Kinhin
08:20pm Zazen/Bodhisattvha Vows/Evening Gatha

Saturday

06:00am Wake up
06:30am Zazen
07:00am Kinhin
07:10am Zazen
07:40am Kinhin
07:50am Zazen/Verse of the Kesa
08:30am Morning Liturgy
08:50am Morning Meal
09:35am Caretaking
10:50am Zazen
11:20am Kinhin
11:30am Zazen
12:00pm Afternoon Liturgy
12:20pm Midday Meal
01:00pm Rest Practice
02:00pm Zazen
02:30pm Kinhin
02:40pm Zazen
03:10pm Kinhin
03:30pm Rinsen's Talk
03:50pm Practice Discussion
04:10pm Extended Outside Kinhin (Weather Permitting)
04:30pm Zazen
05:00 Evening Liturgy
05:20pm Evening Meal
06:00pm Rest Practice
07:00pm Zazen
07:30pm Kinhin
07:40pm Zazen
08:10pm Kinhin
08:20pm Zazen/Bodhisattvha Vows/Evening Gatha
09:00pm Open Zendo
09:30pm Lights Out

Sunday

06:00am Wake Up
06:30am Dawn Zazen
07:00am Kinhin
07:10am Zazen/Verse of the Kesa
07:50am Kinhin
08:00am Open Sozan
08:30am Daikaijo
08:40am Informal Breakfast
09:35am Caretaking
10:00am Morning Service
10:30am Zazen
11:00am Kinhin
11:10am Rinsen's Talk
12:oopm Finish

Please note that a few have asked if they may join in a portion of this schedule, and the answer is that while participation in the whole weekend is preferable, you may join for any part of the retreat, so yes. We just need to know in advance so that arrangements can be made for you. If you would like to do a part of this retreat, leave a comment below, and be sure to include your email address so we can be in touch to confirm the detials.

Cost:

Dana of $155.00 for the weekend covers retreat fees, room and board.

Current Participant List:

Jay Rinsen Weik- All
Karen Do'on Weik- All
Elizabeth Jun'en Allen - All
Simon Monsho Morgan-Russell- All
Angela Macek -All
Timothy Okapal - All
Philip Andrew Dickinson - All
Rob Bondy - All
Donna Diekoff- ?
Anne Marie Fauser - All
Rob Bondy - All
Victor Van Deilen - All
Jim Sorensen - All
Joya D'Cruz - All
Travis Ross - All
Ron Waxell - All
Kirk Kennedy - All
Joel Devonshire- All
Sara Worley - All
Deb Goldberg - Sun
Hadgu Hadgu - Fri
Andy Lesniewicz- Saturday
Susan Purviance - Fri, Sat.
Eric Knapp - Sun
Leigh - Sat pm, Sun
Mark Hollyday - ?

Bodhdharma's Shoe

2009-04-10T20:24:00.000-07:00

A nice 23 minute documentary about Zen retreats. Thanks to James Ford for sharing it on his blog Monkey Mind.

The Loving Wood

2009-04-09T12:11:00.000-07:00

when some say winter
heaven and earth shake

others curse it
search in vain
for spring

the forest bed
holds it all

so quiet

as dragons
and snakes

find
their
way

Picture from the Circle of the Lotus Retreat

2009-04-07T18:24:00.000-07:00

Practicing Nia at the end of the day.

Circle of the Lotus Day Retreat

2009-03-30T08:40:00.000-07:00

This women's retreat will focus on Restoration and Resilience.

Saturday, April 4 9 am – 6 pm

Black Oak Farm, Swanton , OH (15 min. from Toledo )
Zen Meditation: Relax into the Silence
Do’on Weik, Co-Founder of the Toledo Zen Center , Mother, Farmer, Photographer & Poet www.toledozen.org
Yoga: Restorative & Rejuvenating
Jenn McCullough, Certified Yoga & Meditation Instructor RYT 200 www.integrationyogastudio.com
Nia: Flowing & Celebratory
Deb Reis, Certified Nia Black Belt Instructor www.nianow.com
Special Requests:
1. Eat breakfast before you arrive.
2. Bring a brown bag lunch.
3. Wear comfortable clothes in layers and bring shoes suitable for walking in the woods.
Fee: $55 (includes light snacks & disposable, polaroid cameras)
To register, contact Jenn McCullough at Integration Yoga Studio
(419) A-OM-YOGA (266-9642) yoga.jenn@sbcglobal.net

Experts Say Nation Could Use A Stimulus of Happiness

2009-03-29T05:33:00.000-07:00

The Toledo Blade columnist Roberta de Boer did an interview with me for this article in todays paper. The full article is here. Below is an excerpt.

"After years on the fringe, the practice of meditation is now a mainstream and frequently recommended approach to recalibrating racing minds.

"Toledo native Jay Rinsen Weik returned here from Boston in 2001 and founded the Toledo Zen Center.

"One of the main [Buddhist] practices is generosity, because that strikes right at the heart of this cocoon we wind around ourselves, this 'I have to protect me.' That feeling [nationally] is like a thick fog right now: 'We're going down the tubes, baby, and I'm hunkering in.'•"

In fact, Mr. Weik argued, the economic downturn offers an upside.

"We have a great opportunity, actually. When these material things are taken away, what are you going to do? On the other side of it, it's a way of seeing, 'You know what? That wasn't who I was anyway.' I mean, I'd rather have a full retirement account, but there's much more to me than that."

Mr. Weik describes with a Buddhist mindset the weekly meditation practice and periodic gratitude workshops he leads, but he echoes findings in positive psychology..."

"Jay Rinsen Weik, founder of the Toledo Zen Center, finds a silver lining in the economic downturn."
( THE BLADE/LORI KING )

Windhorse

2009-03-28T15:29:00.000-07:00

Loving This Life

2009-03-26T14:00:00.000-07:00

on the tips of horse hair

on early spring branches

The Great Offering

Shih-T'ou: Identity of Relative and Absolute

2009-03-26T07:21:00.000-07:00

Jay Rinsen Weik gives a talk and leads discussion at the Toledo Zen Center on July 30, 2008.

"The mind of the great sage of India was intimately conveyed from West to East.
Among human beings are wise ones and fools, but in the Way there is no northern or southern patriarch."
- Shih-T'ou, Identity of Relative and Absolute

This Drinking Gourd Podcast is available on iTunes or by clicking HERE.

Gyuto Monks

2009-03-24T13:38:00.000-07:00

I heard an interesting story on NPR today about a Tibetan monk choir - to coincide with the release of a new CD. The story can be found here, with a link to some of the music. It's an interesting sound . . . Leigh, better start practicing!

At the Hair Salon

2009-03-24T05:41:00.000-07:00

inside walmart

a severely disabled boy

slumps

in the high black chair

Snip Snip Snip

long black points

poke out

of the back of his head

at the front he

caresses

a finger of his caretaker

sitting

so close

so deep

in the boys

black wheelchair

Completely His.

Video by Prof. Lewis Lancaster: Buddhism in a Global Age of Technology

2009-03-21T06:13:00.000-07:00

Found this interesting...

Late winter in Northern Ohio

2009-03-20T14:08:00.001-07:00

good by

dear friend

till

we meet again

Good Day

2009-03-20T05:04:00.000-07:00

walking in late winter

birdsong of the branches

I passed a man

sitting in his car

reading the newspaper

blasting the radio

heh man!

Don't you feel it?

turn off the radio

put down the paper

get out of the car

I did not say it

saved by

birds walking

my tongue

a twisted branch

thank you Bankei

Springtime for Bodhidharma

2009-03-20T05:02:00.001-07:00

Untitled

2009-03-17T13:02:00.000-07:00