Dear friends,

On Wednesday September 16 after the sitting at around 8pm we will be continuing our discussion of Zen Mind Beginner’s Mind with a discussion of the chapter on Emptiness (p.137). Below you will find discussion questions.

Please try to read the chapter if you can and consider the questions during this coming week.

Looking forward to an exciting discussion!

In gassho,
Brenda

1. What does Suzuki Roshi mean by a “general house cleaning”? Can you think of some examples?

2. What does he mean when he says “The bird exists, but what I mean by that may not be exactly what you mean.”?

3. What exists for you? What are you deeply attached to in your life?

4. Many people these days have begun to feel, at least intellectually, the emptiness of the modern world, or the self contradiction of their culture. Explain relating to Silicon Valley life. What are the promises? What are the contradictions?

5. Moment after moment, we have to find our way. How do you do this a) in the zendo b) at work c) at home with family

6. The murmuring brook. The flying bird. Please explain what he means by this.

7. Absolute freedom itself is necessary before you can acquire absolute freedom. Explain.

8. What kind of effort does Suzuki Roshi suggest we make?

9. What is your own personal experience with this kind of effort? Any suggestions, comments?