Dear Friends in Dharma,
We recognize the Three Marks of Existence, also referred to as Dharma Seals – Impermanence, Suffering, and No-Self – as gateways to realizing the Buddha Dharma. We stand on the threshold of change, which brings an opportunity to explore this moment, to realize the emptiness of loss, and the new potential as we catch our breath.
Most importantly at the moment, we realize the necessity of supporting our Sanghas, the communities engaged in Hollow Bones Zen based practice, the legacy of our founding teacher and Abbot Jun Po, as well as the historical tradition of Zen.
We’re looking forward to celebrating Rohatsu in December, and have already begun locking in details for our 2025 sesshins and event to include a Mondo Zen retreat in spring and our annual Dai Bosatsu sesshin in June. Look for next year’s calendar in our upcoming December newsletter!
We’re beginning to host quarterly meetings of the leaders of practice communities, the next scheduled for December 3rd. We will focus on training for newer participants that supports deeper engagement with and greater accessibility to our Sutra book, precepts, and Mondo practice, and help interested individuals prepare for Jukai.
We will begin a new session of priest training in 2025. Please contact me at taiso@hollowboneszen.org if you think you may be ready for this step in your practice.
I will continue to visit our practice groups both virtually and in person. I am available for Dokusan to anyone in the sangha, which you may schedule by emailing at taiso@hollowboneszen.org or using the form on our website.
We are conducting our annual end-of-the-year fundraising campaign. Please support us in whatever capacity you are able. In the coming months, the Board will review and revitalize our direction and will hold a virtual listening session in the upcoming weeks to which all are invited. A sub-committee of Roshis will review this input and determine what changes may be indicated to revitalize our current directions and commitments and will report to the Board for review.
We committed to supporting practice through the three refuges: awakening practice through the realization of buddha nature, the Dharma as represented in the legacy of Jun Po’s teachings, and especially the support of our Sangha through groups practicing these traditions.
In short, your interest and engagement is vital! Please let us know what you need.
Blessings,
Taiso
