Dharma means teaching of the Buddha , teaching of an enlightened being . It also means universal law .Master Deshimaru used to call it cosmic order . EGO, also called SELF , means a living human being , João , Peter , Maria , Carlos etc . Though being part of the cosmic totality EGO sees itself separated from oneness . When EGO recognizes that being seperated is the reason for suffering, EGO might engage in Dharmapractice to become complete , to heal the split between me and you , between right and wrong . But in the beginning EGO has not yet experienced that the reason for suffering comes from its own limited view. So ironically EGOs Dharmapractice is coloured by EGOs personal view about what Dharma is. Instead of letting go its personal views , the reason for suffering, EGO tries to practice its personal Dharma , a small limited Dharma .
To practice the true Dharma it is necessary to follow a teacher . If there is no teacher available we should practice around those who have a stable practice and follow the texts of the Buddha and the ancient masters . Practicing the Dharma means in the first place to practice regularly ZAZEN together , not ones personal small ZAZEN.
The next day of ZAZEN in September will be Sunday the 9th . I suppose it would be a good start to have an open talk and sharing about the topics above including the values of the three treasures of the Buddhist way : Buddha , Dharma , Sangha .
As a Sangha it is very important that we share with eachother how we see and live our practice . Daily life and common actions are great teachers. Sharing these themes deepens mutual understanding and confidence into eachother .
We will begin with a ZAZEN as usual at 9 am followed by a talk and lunch . And then we see how the afternoon takes shape . Lets start softly and harmoniously the first steps of a new circle .
Gassho Carl