Benefits of a Sangha

[Mp]

Sometimes, at least in my case, it's just a matter of being unskillful. Treeleaf allows me the space to thoughtfully compose my interactions with others, where in person, I tend to communicate poorly in social situations. (I think ADHD is a big part of it--I miss what people say and miss body language cues, trip over words, say idiotic things that come into my head because the brain filter is slow.) This Sangha is perfect for those of us with social anxiety.
Gassho
Jakuden
SatToday/LAH


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Yes, thank you Jakuden

Gassho
Shingen

SatToday/LAH

[Tai Shi]

What do I think of this Treeleaf, my Sangha? Recently I found another online group, and I've practiced with them a bit, and although they sit for up to two hours, I find myself dropping out after 45 minutes or so. This little Sangha does not have all the structure and high dignity of Treeleaf which I appreciate, And with Treeleaf there is the knowledge of linage, and the representation of contentedness with the Buddha. Even so there is some attraction with sitting with another group, and though I do not wear my Treeleaf Rakusu when sitting, I wear a beautiful meditation stole my wife brought me from Japan. This meditation stole immediately announced to the group that I practiced Zen, and other schools are allowed and encouraged with this small Group. I still have practiced sitting Shikantaza with both the small group and with Treeleaf, my Sangha, and alone. Instruction in Shikantaza sets us apart from other Sangha, and the full compliment of Dharma talks and formal teachings from Jundo and the Usuri (sp) make Treeleaf truly a wonderful place with many folks of diversity practicing and commenting on our Forum.

Now, to tell the truth, I like Jakuden, have some trouble with real live people because sometimes I wonder if I say the right things; I feel awkward in both practice settings, too, even though I attempt to compensate. I have bipolar disorder and pain related depression. Though Treeleaf has accepted me, still I wonder if my practice is good enough. Now I know that Jundo has said that any practice is good, (I assume he means attempts, and full making the mark of Shikantaza), and yet there is the implication that I am just a Lay Person, and priests are priests. I do love Treeleaf, and I give a little money each month trying to help out with all the technology needed to maintain our Sangha, and I assume somebody has to eat! So I intend to practice, still with the little Sangha while showing my full diligence with my real home group Treeleaf, observing Buddhist Traditions, and sitting with priests, and Zazenkai in person if I can get in, and recording as I am able. So from time to time I can sit with both groups. And what do folks think of this?

Tai Shi
std
Gassho

[Jundo]

Hi Tai Shi,

Sounds good!

Priests are lay folks who keep the lights on and the tables set in our little restaurant.

Gassho, J

SatTodayLAH

[Suuko]

Greetings everyone,

In the last few months, I have been coming across a lot of material linked to Master Dogen and have been talking to Fuyu who runs the ZenBuddhism.net website. Just when I thought that I needed to expand on my practice, I met Jundo. I must say that I'm very grateful because this place is wonderful. Life is our temple. I'm having a very rough time at work and the shikantaza keeps me sane. LAH is something which has immersed in me completely-while driving, talking to people and while doing other activities. Thank you my brothers and sisters.

Much love to everyone,
Gassho,
Geerish.
ST/LAH.

[Tairin]

I like how this thread has evolved Great discussion.

I noticed that Domyo Burk added a Part 4 and 5 to her series so I updated my original post to include the links. Part 5 is particularly enlightening. I think it is natural to ask what is the benefit of the Sangha to the individual. Part 5 raises the very valid point of an individual's value to the Sangha. Take a look. http://brightwayzen.org/sangha-part-...ha-as-service/

It reminds me of the Kennedy quote “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.”

On a personal note thank you for making Treeleaf a sane and safe place to be.

Gassho
Warren
Sat today and LAH