Our very own abbot emeritus Les Kaye shares his experiences of Suzuki Roshi, who brought Zen to the West and wrote Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind

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I Had a Good Teacher weaves together Les Kaye’s Dharma talks and personal reflections to explore how Zen practice can be integrated into everyday life, including work and family. The book includes recollections of Suzuki Roshi and brief writings about moments at the zendo—among them, a visit from Steve Jobs seeking guidance on balancing work and spiritual life. Accessible and down-to-earth, I Had a Good Teacher offers a thoughtful introduction to Zen in daily life, a respectful portrait of a dedicated teacher, and a reminder to keep meditation grounded in everyday awareness.

“I Had a Good Teacher is a marvelous collection of Les Kaye’s talks and writings. I can feel his authenticity and deep understanding. Those who study with him—in person or through this book—have a good teacher.” —David Chadwick, author of Crooked Cucumber: The Life and Zen Teachings of Shunryu Suzuki and Tassajara Stories

“What a wonderful book…. direct and deep, real and rich, filled with down-to-earth wisdom. Enjoy reading about something that could change your life.” —Roshi Joan Halifax, Abbot, Upaya Zen Center, and author of Standing at the Edge: Finding Freedom Where Fear and Courage Meet

“In this lovely plainspoken book, Les offers the spirit of Suzuki Roshi Zen. Sometimes enigmatic, sometimes sweet, sometimes with stories of the past, sometimes timeless wisdom….all passed on to you with a kind heart.” —Jack Kornfield, author of A Path with Heart: A Guide Through the Perils and Promises of Spiritual Life