We are hoping to create a new website including new articles/essays, inspirational writings from many great teachers, a new collection of traditional Zen teachings (see the Treasury page), photos from wilderness trips, and delicious vegan recipes, among other things. This project is on hold since none of us are practicing together full-time right now.
If you’d like to see the new 135-page collection of traditional Zen teaching dialogues (what koans come from) in the intended format (rather than the hard-to-read version on the Treasury page on this site) then use this link to view the shared Google document:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dE1M3CHFbOn-stANx8NmcHXfoWKaZtC7gXeqWgFJKVc/edit?hl=en
If you’re looking for the essay about lifestyle change and political activism, it’s in the “Satya’s Writings” section.
We apologize for the terrible formatting that makes the longer writings difficult to read. That’s a major reason we’re hoping to have a new formatted website soon. The 135 page “book” of Zen teachings – in the “Treasury” section – is particularly user-unfriendly, but should look really nice on the new site. So visit again.
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Most people today mistakenly think that constructing Buddha images and building stupas helps the Buddhadharma flourish. Even though we might erect huge temples adorned with polished jewels and gold, we cannot attain the Way by these works… To learn even a single phrase of the Dharma-gate or to practice zazen if only for a single period, while living in a thatched hut or under a tree, shows the true flourishing of The Buddhadharma.
If we remain pure and poor, but practice the Way enduring hardship, beg for food, or eat wild nuts or fruit… a single person hearing about us and coming to practice will be one possessing true bodhi-mind. I think this is the way the buddhadharma can truly flourish.
-Zen Master Dogen
Touching Earth Sangha is a meditation practice community dedicated to awakening the clarity and compassion at the source of our hearts and minds.We recognize the expression of that awakening as a responsible and caring lifestyle in harmony with the Earth and all creatures.
We live communally, we follow a rigorous practice schedule based on traditional Zen models, as well as allowing for innovation, and for inspiration from other traditions. We aim to be an example to the wider community of the possibility of sustainable lifestyles; living with little energy use, no car, virtually zero waste, and generally following the highest standards of ecological and social responsibility.
In line with the spirit of contemplative traditions around the world, we offer all our programs free of charge, on a purely donation basis. We are dedicated to letting go of fear and trusting in the compassionate and caring heart – the vastness and balance of nature.
Everyone is welcome to join all or part of our daily schedule, our Sunday public meditation circle, our silent retreats, or our workshops and “open-temple” events. Please consult the schedule and the upcoming events for good times to stop by, or contact us through e-mail. Inquiries and feedback are encouraged!
May all beings be free and joyful
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