Progress in Zen

[Willyeast]

When approaching meditation should a beginner set goals or have a concept of progress for the spiritual path? Should we expect to gain more peace in life or do you think that
progress is not a concept that belongs in Zen? If not what do you think the purpose of meditation and the spiritual practice is?

[Jundo]

When approaching meditation should a beginner set goals or have a concept of progress for the spiritual path? Should we expect to gain more peace in life or do you think that
progress is not a concept that belongs in Zen? If not what do you think the purpose of meditation and the spiritual practice is?

Hello Willy,

Ah, this is a key question, and the answer a bit counter-intuitive.

First, much of the wisdom and discovery of Zen comes from putting down the hunger and hunt, the search for answers over distant hills, so as to realize the treasure always right here. Thus we sit in radical equanimity, accepting what is, untangled from thought, not stirring up or wallowing in emotions, with trust in the completeness of just this doing right now. Then, rising from the cushion, as we return to this life of things to do, problems to solve and things lacking, hopefully some of that untangled allowing, trust and completeness still shines in our bones. The hard borders and desires of our "little self," and its accompanying frictions, also soften and ease, and a sense of flowing in the Wholeness of this world may be known. Sometimes, that dropping away can be quite powerful, and we profoundly and intimately realize and experience that we are all things, all things are each other, and the whole thing just flowing flowing on, timeless yet coming and going. However, even if a more subtle experience, the Wholeness of all this world should be sensed with time.

The fruits of this practice are known, because such Wisdom is known ... and because you will know by the impact it has in your life. You will know it is right because it feels right in your life, and connects you to all this world.

I wrote this awhile back for people looking for progress on this wise-crazy path.

https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/teacher-talks-tips/teacher-talks-tips-aa/talks-tips-and-topics-by-jundo/4564-sit-a-long-with-jundo-what-s-next

Gassho, J
stlah

PS - Willy, would you mind to sign a human name, put a picture, and add "SatToday and Lent a Hand" to your posts? Thank you. It helps us keep this place a little more human and focused on Practice.

https://forum.treeleaf.org/forum/treeleaf/practices/engaged-charitable-projects-center/16154-sattoday-lend-a-hand-please-lah-and-sat-before-chat

[Willyeast]

Yes, I could add a picture and use Billy with an appropriate title.

[Jundo]

Yes, I could add a picture and use Billy with an appropriate title.

Thank you.

Gassho, Jundo

[Rich]

When approaching meditation should a beginner set goals or have a concept of progress for the spiritual path? Should we expect to gain more peace in life or do you think that
progress is not a concept that belongs in Zen? If not what do you think the purpose of meditation and the spiritual practice is?

The only goal i would set is be consistent. For me thats at least once per day sitting. You could say my goal or intention is to wake up to the present moment over and over. As far as gaining or progress that’s tricky because you are already an awakened being so you are just becoming aware of that. And that's the purpose of meditation

sat lah

[Jundo]

Rich!

Gassho, Jundo
stlah

[Rich]

Rich!

Gassho, Jundo
stlah

Happy new year jundo and all of treeleaf