sparkling in pure light

Greetings!I am beginning a series of talks exploring the wisdom of Zen Master Shitou’s Sandokai, which is translated in various ways including: The Identity of Relative and Absolute, Being One and Many, The Harmony of Difference and Sameness.In this podcast dharma talk I explore the first stanza of the poem using Nelson Foster’s translation:The mind (heart) of the great sage of India was intimately conveyed (transmitted) from west to east. Though people may be sharp-witted or dull, there's no north and south in the Way. The deep spring sparkles in the pure light, its branches streaming through the darkness. Grasping at phenomena is the source of delusion; uniting with the absolute falls short of awakening.We explore the various ways one can point to our true nature—May these pointings aid in the recognition of what you already deeply know—the freedom and love of your own heart-mind.Dharma Talks from the Grasses, Trees and Great Earth Sesshin at Great Vow Zen Monastery are now posted. You can find them on the Zen Community of Oregon Website, as well as wherever you listen to podcasts.Research Participant RequestI am taking classes in Buddhist Studies to complete my Mdiv. I am currently taking a class on Medicine and Healing, and one of my assignments is to conduct ethnographic research. I am looking for one volunteer who would be willing to be interviewed for three, 60-minute sessions. I will ask you questions about your experience with sickness, medicine and healing over the course of your life (this may be at times broad and at times specific). And I will hold space for you to tell your story. Please contact me if you are interested or if you have questions.Weekly Online Meditation Event through ZCOMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. We are currently exploring the Identity of Relative and Absolute.Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKIn-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaWeekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and ThursdayI’m back in Columbus for a while, and we have a lot happening. Check out our website for retreats, weekly meditations and other events.I’m Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions using IFS and Hakomi (somatic mindfulness). I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe