The sixty-fifth of 108 Gates Of Dharma Illumination

[Shokai]

The Sixty-fifth Gate: The Power of Mindfulness

The power of mindfulness* is a gate of Dharma illumination; for [with it] we do not [blindly] go along with others. (Nishijima/Cross)
The ability of mindfulness is a gate of realizing dharma; it does not blindly go along with others. (Tanahashi)

*[Power of mindfulness: great or marked ability to keep aware; heedful:

Gate Gatha:

May we, together with all buddhas;
Actualize the power of mindfulness,
That we may not be blind followers.

Reflection Prompts:

1. How does the power of mindfulness lead us not to be blind followers?
2. What re the benefits of not following others blindly.?
3. Write a new capping verse.

Capping Verse:

When the world grows dark
We follow
The light from within

stlah
合掌,生開
gassho, Shokai

仁道 生開 / Jindo Shokai
"Open to life in a benevolent way"

https://sarushinzendo.wordpress.com/

[Choujou]

1. How does the power of mindfulness lead us not to be blind followers?
2. What re the benefits of not following others blindly.?
3. Write a new capping verse.

1. Because the power of mindfulness keeps us firmly rooted in the present moment as it is. We are not swayed by the words, deeds, suggestions, and manipulations of others. One has a grasp on reality and doesn’t need anyone to tell you. You know, and can recognize truth. The other important aspect to this is that you know why you are doing what you are doing. When one has a full understanding, a full grasping of whatever it is they are doing, life takes on more depth. Understanding of the Dharma becomes more profound. You have a direct understanding, and not through the eyes and mouths of others.

2. Well, first would be authenticity. Also, reality, freedom from expectations of others, depth of experience, wisdom, profound understanding, truth, empowerment (to take positive action in the world). I’m sure there are more, but just to name a few that came to mind.

3. With eyes open
Be the example
And lead the way.


Gassho,
Choujou

sat/lah today