Thursday, October 02, 2014

The Art of Pilgrimage: Green Gulch Zen Center, September 2014

Pilgrims on the Path

Here is another version/translation of the Zen story that Layla told in the zendo from the "Book of Serenity"

Zen Teacher Earth Treasury asked the monk Dharma Eye as he was leaving the monastery, "Where are you going?"
Dharma Eye said, "I am going on pilgrimage."
Earth Treasury said, "What is the purpose of pilgrimage?"
Dharma Eye said, "I don't know."
Earth Treasury said, "Not knowing is most intimate."
Dharma Eye was greatly awakened at these words.

Here are some links:
Tassajara Zen Mountain Center Someone had asked for additional information
Exploring Pilgrimage by request, a draft article on pilgrimage 
Meal Chant Stew an article about gratefulness

We were blessed with a perfect day, incredible views, and a community of 'pilgrims' on the path. I am so touched to see both new and familiar faces from Esalen, Tassajara, and past Green Gulch pilgrimages. My hope and intention of offering this retreat was and is to explore what meaningful contemporary pilgrimage might be, to build community, and deepen our connection to place. All of my hopes and intentions for the day were met. I am filled with gratitude and hope to see you all again next year, if not sooner.

Special thanks to Layla Smith for so gracefully stepping in at the last minute, and to Linda and Laura for support along the way.

I invite you to pause for a moment as though you have just heard the ringing of the practice bell... and for the next three breaths... I invite you to open your awareness and attend to whatever arises. May we all live "most intimately."

Deep gratitude filled bow,

Steven