[Zen] Re: Introduction
Edgar, Fantastic. I like the way things grow. Congrats. I hope you cut her in for a percentage! ;-) There's a weaver in my neighborhood, a cancer-survivor; she had a bald head for a long while, and wore it proudly here; active in our Neighborhood Association. I told her I am a Buddhist, after a fashion, but have never shed all my head-hair, and I hope it doesn't happen even despite our hot desert climate. ;-) Her son is a rather famous Prof. in Religious Studies in this university town, and specializes in Asian religions. I'll ask her if she knows your software! She's taught "Fiber Arts" in an academic setting, and so may certainly have come across your prgm in her "travels". I'll send you word, after I see her next: a close-by neighbor. By the way, whenever I read "Fiber Arts" a hit of excitement shocks me: I think it's Fiber Optics, for about 200 ms. You can take a guy out of the Lab, but, etc. ;-) I would never be able to fake a lie-detector test; I am a "hot-reactor". Cheers, --Joe > Edgar Owen wrote: > > Joe, > > Never did any weaving myself but had a close friend who did and I originally > wrote it for her... > > Edgar Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today!Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/ <*> Your email settings: Individual Email | Traditional <*> To change settings online go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/join (Yahoo! ID required) <*> To change settings via email: zen_forum-dig...@yahoogroups.com zen_forum-fullfeatu...@yahoogroups.com <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: zen_forum-unsubscr...@yahoogroups.com <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
Re: [Zen] Re: Introduction
Joe, Never did any weaving myself but had a close friend who did and I originally wrote it for her... Edgar On Apr 13, 2013, at 4:30 PM, Joe wrote: > Edgar, > > Thanks for the word, there, about that interesting software. > > I don't know if (PC) hardware "vintage" would matter, but I still have "Home" > and "Pro" versions of Win-XP running on a couple of machines, and XP will run > WIN 3.1 apps and legacy DOS software. > > BTW, MicroSoft is still supporting XP (to end this Summer, I think). > > And, BTW..., is your software "out there" on the web somewhere? > > (I've also got modern machines, with XP on interchangeable hds which can be > mounted). > > I'm not sure, but I think Merle is Mac based. She'll chime-in if this strikes > a chord with her. > > Did you do any weaving, Edgar?, and was that on Morningside Heights? Sorry we > missed meeting in NYC... or up on Slide Mountain. If you ever attended the > Open-House nights at the Observatory at Columbia, that was me hosting the > crowd and pointing the telescope around for about eight years under the big > green dome on Pupin. > > Did we cross paths in Da Liu's t'ai chi classes? > > --Joe > > > Edgar Owen wrote: > > > > No, it was for fabric design on home looms. I haven't tried running it on a > > PC for quite a few years to know whether it would still run on not... > > > > Edgar > > > > On Apr 13, 2013, at 2:53 PM, Joe wrote: > > > > > Edgar, > > > > > > Very interesting! Not a CNC program, was it, as for machine-shop milling > > > tool control? For a robo-loom, I mean. Or a prgm. to generate patterns to > > > print on a printer? I bet it could do colorful work. This is something > > > that might also interest Merle. And maybe folks can still run the > > > software? Kudos, > > > > > > --Joe > > > > > > > Edgar Owen wrote: > > > > > > > > Joe and Charles, > > > > > > > > FYI I wrote and marketed a computer weaving design program called > > > > Mindweave when I was running my software business prior to my current > > > > ancient art business... > >
[Zen] Re: Introduction
Edgar, Thanks for the word, there, about that interesting software. I don't know if (PC) hardware "vintage" would matter, but I still have "Home" and "Pro" versions of Win-XP running on a couple of machines, and XP will run WIN 3.1 apps and legacy DOS software. BTW, MicroSoft is still supporting XP (to end this Summer, I think). And, BTW..., is your software "out there" on the web somewhere? (I've also got modern machines, with XP on interchangeable hds which can be mounted). I'm not sure, but I think Merle is Mac based. She'll chime-in if this strikes a chord with her. Did you do any weaving, Edgar?, and was that on Morningside Heights? Sorry we missed meeting in NYC... or up on Slide Mountain. If you ever attended the Open-House nights at the Observatory at Columbia, that was me hosting the crowd and pointing the telescope around for about eight years under the big green dome on Pupin. Did we cross paths in Da Liu's t'ai chi classes? --Joe > Edgar Owen wrote: > > No, it was for fabric design on home looms. I haven't tried running it on a > PC for quite a few years to know whether it would still run on not... > > Edgar > > On Apr 13, 2013, at 2:53 PM, Joe wrote: > > > Edgar, > > > > Very interesting! Not a CNC program, was it, as for machine-shop milling > > tool control? For a robo-loom, I mean. Or a prgm. to generate patterns to > > print on a printer? I bet it could do colorful work. This is something that > > might also interest Merle. And maybe folks can still run the software? > > Kudos, > > > > --Joe > > > > > Edgar Owen wrote: > > > > > > Joe and Charles, > > > > > > FYI I wrote and marketed a computer weaving design program called > > > Mindweave when I was running my software business prior to my current > > > ancient art business... Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today!Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/ <*> Your email settings: Individual Email | Traditional <*> To change settings online go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/join (Yahoo! ID required) <*> To change settings via email: zen_forum-dig...@yahoogroups.com zen_forum-fullfeatu...@yahoogroups.com <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: zen_forum-unsubscr...@yahoogroups.com <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
Re: [Zen] Re: Introduction
No, it was for fabric design on home looms. I haven't tried running it on a PC for quite a few years to know whether it would still run on not... Edgar On Apr 13, 2013, at 2:53 PM, Joe wrote: > Edgar, > > Very interesting! Not a CNC program, was it, as for machine-shop milling tool > control? For a robo-loom, I mean. Or a prgm. to generate patterns to print on > a printer? I bet it could do colorful work. This is something that might also > interest Merle. And maybe folks can still run the software? Kudos, > > --Joe > > > Edgar Owen wrote: > > > > Joe and Charles, > > > > FYI I wrote and marketed a computer weaving design program called Mindweave > > when I was running my software business prior to my current ancient art > > business... > >
[Zen] Re: Introduction
Edgar, Very interesting! Not a CNC program, was it, as for machine-shop milling tool control? For a robo-loom, I mean. Or a prgm. to generate patterns to print on a printer? I bet it could do colorful work. This is something that might also interest Merle. And maybe folks can still run the software? Kudos, --Joe > Edgar Owen wrote: > > Joe and Charles, > > FYI I wrote and marketed a computer weaving design program called Mindweave > when I was running my software business prior to my current ancient art > business... Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today!Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/ <*> Your email settings: Individual Email | Traditional <*> To change settings online go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/join (Yahoo! ID required) <*> To change settings via email: zen_forum-dig...@yahoogroups.com zen_forum-fullfeatu...@yahoogroups.com <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: zen_forum-unsubscr...@yahoogroups.com <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
Re: [Zen] Re: Introduction
Joe and Charles, FYI I wrote and marketed a computer weaving design program called Mindweave when I was running my software business prior to my current ancient art business... Edgar On Apr 13, 2013, at 2:13 PM, Joe wrote: > Charles, > > Greetings, and welcome to the Group. > > You and I have the same practice in Shikantaza. > > Long-time practitioner here, and wood-butcher and sawdust maker. > > Interesting that you do weaving and have a loom. With my fascination with > wood and wooden things, I'd probably stare in awe at the loom all day and > never get any weaving done, or I'd simply build looms. I have only seen ONE > in-person, though. Do you have a link you could refer me to which might show > a similar or identical loom to the one you use? Just want to admire, not > looking to build one; many projects in the air here already ...and dust. > > To me looms look as beautiful as Celtic or other harps. Similar, too. ;-) > > With greetings from the desert, > > --Joe > > > "Charles" wrote: > > > > I live near Victoria on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. I have the odd > > combination of being devoted to Zen and the Pagan way of life. My Zen > > practice is of Shikantaza after the Soto School and the Pagan aspect means > > that I follow the yearly round of my ancestors. > > > > At age 70+ I have seen much of Northern Canada and recently arrived in the > > South to be near medical facilities. My main pursuit is Soumack weaving on > > a very fine scale which comes from living in the restricted space of a > > condominium. There is no room for a full size loom so I work on a mini one. > > > > Blessings be! > > > > Charles > >
[Zen] Re: Introduction
Charles, Greetings, and welcome to the Group. You and I have the same practice in Shikantaza. Long-time practitioner here, and wood-butcher and sawdust maker. Interesting that you do weaving and have a loom. With my fascination with wood and wooden things, I'd probably stare in awe at the loom all day and never get any weaving done, or I'd simply build looms. I have only seen ONE in-person, though. Do you have a link you could refer me to which might show a similar or identical loom to the one you use? Just want to admire, not looking to build one; many projects in the air here already ...and dust. To me looms look as beautiful as Celtic or other harps. Similar, too. ;-) With greetings from the desert, --Joe > "Charles" wrote: > > I live near Victoria on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. I have the odd > combination of being devoted to Zen and the Pagan way of life. My Zen > practice is of Shikantaza after the Soto School and the Pagan aspect means > that I follow the yearly round of my ancestors. > > At age 70+ I have seen much of Northern Canada and recently arrived in the > South to be near medical facilities. My main pursuit is Soumack weaving on a > very fine scale which comes from living in the restricted space of a > condominium. There is no room for a full size loom so I work on a mini one. > > Blessings be! > > Charles Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today!Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/ <*> Your email settings: Individual Email | Traditional <*> To change settings online go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/join (Yahoo! ID required) <*> To change settings via email: zen_forum-dig...@yahoogroups.com zen_forum-fullfeatu...@yahoogroups.com <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: zen_forum-unsubscr...@yahoogroups.com <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
Re: [Zen] Re: Introduction
Hi Charles, and welcome to the group. I like your response and agree that having personal myths is fine so long as one knows they are myths. Otherwise they become delusions. As I've often tried to explain to the other members here, we live in the world of forms, all of which are illusory, not in the sense that they don't exist, but in the sense that they are not as they initially appear. So we can certainly add or subtract forms as we choose so long as we understand the nature of forms which unfortunately most other members here don't, and still realize Zen mind. All forms are part of the reality of the world, but only when recognized as the illusions they are rather than the realities they pretend to be. Illusions seen as illusions are reality, but illusions seen as reality are illusions... Forms are the way the formless Buddha Nature manifests in our daily world. Active Zen meditation is realizing the Buddha Nature in all forms in our daily world. And that includes playing with the forms of personal myth... Best, Edgar co-moderator with Bill On Apr 13, 2013, at 12:38 PM, Charles Gee wrote: > Bill wrote: > > "As you've probably learned by now I do not agree with your assertion > that zen addresses things spiritual, but hope we will get more of a > chance to discuss this important point further." > > I replied to Bill from the aspect of the Pagan concept of the "The round > of the Year" a simple appreciation of how the year is culturally > structured and the pleasure I and many others get from the various > natural events that mark its passage. > > Let me be quite clear I am an Atheist, God and the associated memes are > a construct of humanity little different from Robin Hood, Hamlet, Red > Riding Hood and all the other fabulous creatures that inhabit the sphere > of myth. > > I am a Pagan/Heathen in that those descriptors best capture the sense of > being attuned to the natural world and all that goes on in it. The > problem we all face is that words mean one thing to the author but they > have to get into the mind of the reader who can and often does have a > different set of references and definitions enough said there but a > fascinating area that amused me for many years. > > I use Zen and in particular Shikantaza as a tool, the same way I use any > of my numerous other skills, but in this case it is not my hands that > are at work but my mind. It seems to have the effect of sharpening my > mind by enabling it to come to a focus and concentrate on whatever I am > working on or over. In this day and age the clamor and strife bombard > our mind with stuff that is of benefit to those originating it, but of > little or no benefit to those receiving it. To have a silent mind that > can be focused is a very valuable asset. > > I suspect that Bill also read my reply to Merle but missed the aspect of > the question that I replied to. she asked: "charles does the pagan > believe in spirituality and souls?" > > I took this as a question about the general beliefs of Pagans as a > whole. I have known a number of Pagans in my 70 plus years and so I > replied in general terms about what I knew of their beliefs, not an easy > task and I picked my words carefully as both Spirituality and Soul are > somewhat nebulous and ill defined (hardly surprising when one considers > how they are used and misused) > > Let me be quite clear, so you know where I am coming from, I have no > time or energy available to spend on the chase for spirituality as I > consider it simply a chase after mind concepts that have no use or value > to me. As for a "Soul" a great meme for getting cash in the collection, > but of no utility to an atheist. > > I use Zen as a tool, I put up with the semi-religious trappings it has > accumulated over the centuries, but like water they wash over me and the > sun dries them off until the next exposure. Like almost anything else > it has attracted those who have found a way to extract economic (in the > broad sense of the term) advantage that does not mean they have improved > Zen, just added another layer one has to dig through to get to the > underlying aspect that has real lasting value. > > Metaphorically I have a hide akin to that on a rhinoceros and I expect > that the above my well test its capacity, so be it, an honest exchange > is always a way of clarifying my own position. > > I should be weaving so I leave this area awaiting the next salvo to arrive. > > Charles also known as Aurochs and that's no bull! > >
[Zen] Re: Introduction
Bill wrote: "As you've probably learned by now I do not agree with your assertion that zen addresses things spiritual, but hope we will get more of a chance to discuss this important point further." I replied to Bill from the aspect of the Pagan concept of the "The round of the Year" a simple appreciation of how the year is culturally structured and the pleasure I and many others get from the various natural events that mark its passage. Let me be quite clear I am an Atheist, God and the associated memes are a construct of humanity little different from Robin Hood, Hamlet, Red Riding Hood and all the other fabulous creatures that inhabit the sphere of myth. I am a Pagan/Heathen in that those descriptors best capture the sense of being attuned to the natural world and all that goes on in it. The problem we all face is that words mean one thing to the author but they have to get into the mind of the reader who can and often does have a different set of references and definitions enough said there but a fascinating area that amused me for many years. I use Zen and in particular Shikantaza as a tool, the same way I use any of my numerous other skills, but in this case it is not my hands that are at work but my mind. It seems to have the effect of sharpening my mind by enabling it to come to a focus and concentrate on whatever I am working on or over. In this day and age the clamor and strife bombard our mind with stuff that is of benefit to those originating it, but of little or no benefit to those receiving it. To have a silent mind that can be focused is a very valuable asset. I suspect that Bill also read my reply to Merle but missed the aspect of the question that I replied to. she asked: "charles does the pagan believe in spirituality and souls?" I took this as a question about the general beliefs of Pagans as a whole. I have known a number of Pagans in my 70 plus years and so I replied in general terms about what I knew of their beliefs, not an easy task and I picked my words carefully as both Spirituality and Soul are somewhat nebulous and ill defined (hardly surprising when one considers how they are used and misused) Let me be quite clear, so you know where I am coming from, I have no time or energy available to spend on the chase for spirituality as I consider it simply a chase after mind concepts that have no use or value to me. As for a "Soul" a great meme for getting cash in the collection, but of no utility to an atheist. I use Zen as a tool, I put up with the semi-religious trappings it has accumulated over the centuries, but like water they wash over me and the sun dries them off until the next exposure. Like almost anything else it has attracted those who have found a way to extract economic (in the broad sense of the term) advantage that does not mean they have improved Zen, just added another layer one has to dig through to get to the underlying aspect that has real lasting value. Metaphorically I have a hide akin to that on a rhinoceros and I expect that the above my well test its capacity, so be it, an honest exchange is always a way of clarifying my own position. I should be weaving so I leave this area awaiting the next salvo to arrive. Charles also known as Aurochs and that's no bull! Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today!Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/ <*> Your email settings: Individual Email | Traditional <*> To change settings online go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/join (Yahoo! ID required) <*> To change settings via email: zen_forum-dig...@yahoogroups.com zen_forum-fullfeatu...@yahoogroups.com <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: zen_forum-unsubscr...@yahoogroups.com <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
[Zen] Re: Introduction
Charles, Thanks for your excellent reply. It did answer most of my questions on Paganism, what it means to you and how you integrate it with what you call zen. In fact I think many on this forum should take special note of your post, especially in the way you combined outside resources (a link)and written responses embedded in the reply. Too often some of our participants just post links with no explanation of what they are or why anyone should visit them, and most importantly what they themselves think about the topic. As you've probably learned by now I do not agree with your assertion that zen addresses things spiritual, but hope we will get more of a chance to discuss this important point further. Again, welcome to the forum...Bill! --- In Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com, Charles Gee wrote: > > Greetings: > Bill asked: > > "Just what does "follow the yearly round of my ancestors" mean? What > does it entail?" > > Please use the following link: > > http://www.zenpagan.org/files/Celebrations.html > > See no point in redoing work already done with regard to the first part > of the question. As for,"What does it entail" That is a bit of a story. > > I came to Zen by a roundabout route of numerous religions and a deep > depression when I quit Jehovah's Witnesses and became a sort of Atheist. > I started reading and stumbled upon Zen. Living and working at that time > on Haida Gwaii I was stuck on the Island so there was no hope of going > out for instruction thus I I sat and looked at the wall for 3 years or > so for around 4 hours a day. I managed to get some facility in Zen and > in particular Shikantaza. Counting breath was the start of course, Koans > were interesting but with no one to talk with a bit pointless, but > Shikantaza I could comprehend and self monitor. > > I am a made Witch and found that I like ritual and performance but being > also an Atheist I continue as a Solitary. How do I follow the Yearly > Round? I become very aware of the day and of the progression of the > seasons. I stop and enjoy deeply the cherry blossoms, I sit in wonder at > the Magnolia blooming outside my window. I check out the Moon and am > aware of the birds as they migrate. I purchase food grown locally and in > season. I make a point of doing something special on the equinox and > solstice as well as cooking for Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasadh and Samhain. > Probably my favorite time is the 12 days at the turn of the year > starting with December 21 and culminating on January 1st - 3 feasts 21st > for the Solstice, 25th for the return of the Sun, and the 1st for the > turn of the Year. Then I diet for a month! > > I have an Anglo Saxon heritage from my mother and a Celtic from my > Father so the Old Germanic rites and rituals have a natural almost > genetic appeal. So Pork features often in the feasting meal. > > Hope that answers Bill's question > > Charles > Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today!Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/ <*> Your email settings: Individual Email | Traditional <*> To change settings online go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/join (Yahoo! ID required) <*> To change settings via email: zen_forum-dig...@yahoogroups.com zen_forum-fullfeatu...@yahoogroups.com <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: zen_forum-unsubscr...@yahoogroups.com <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
[Zen] Re: Introduction
Greetings again: Merle asked: "...charles does the pagan believe in spirituality and souls?...merle" The answer for spirituality would depend on the definition but most of those I know have some sort of Spiritual dimension in their lives and practice, chanting, dance, trance and mind altering substances are fairly common. Spirituality being one of those slippery words that has almost as many definitions as people using it somewhat of a catch all like "love" used for everything from sunsets to sex. "Souls" has for many a rather unpleasant association with Xianity and I left there a fair while ago. I would hazard a guess that many Pagans hold some sort of belief in that concept but we are usually more interested in doing than in philosophy. Personally I discount the concept and aim on getting all I can out of this existence, letting my loaned atoms do what they will after I finish this life. Charles Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today!Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/ <*> Your email settings: Individual Email | Traditional <*> To change settings online go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/join (Yahoo! ID required) <*> To change settings via email: zen_forum-dig...@yahoogroups.com zen_forum-fullfeatu...@yahoogroups.com <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: zen_forum-unsubscr...@yahoogroups.com <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
[Zen] Re: Introduction
Greetings: Bill asked: "Just what does "follow the yearly round of my ancestors" mean? What does it entail?" Please use the following link: http://www.zenpagan.org/files/Celebrations.html See no point in redoing work already done with regard to the first part of the question. As for,"What does it entail" That is a bit of a story. I came to Zen by a roundabout route of numerous religions and a deep depression when I quit Jehovah's Witnesses and became a sort of Atheist. I started reading and stumbled upon Zen. Living and working at that time on Haida Gwaii I was stuck on the Island so there was no hope of going out for instruction thus I I sat and looked at the wall for 3 years or so for around 4 hours a day. I managed to get some facility in Zen and in particular Shikantaza. Counting breath was the start of course, Koans were interesting but with no one to talk with a bit pointless, but Shikantaza I could comprehend and self monitor. I am a made Witch and found that I like ritual and performance but being also an Atheist I continue as a Solitary. How do I follow the Yearly Round? I become very aware of the day and of the progression of the seasons. I stop and enjoy deeply the cherry blossoms, I sit in wonder at the Magnolia blooming outside my window. I check out the Moon and am aware of the birds as they migrate. I purchase food grown locally and in season. I make a point of doing something special on the equinox and solstice as well as cooking for Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasadh and Samhain. Probably my favorite time is the 12 days at the turn of the year starting with December 21 and culminating on January 1st - 3 feasts 21st for the Solstice, 25th for the return of the Sun, and the 1st for the turn of the Year. Then I diet for a month! I have an Anglo Saxon heritage from my mother and a Celtic from my Father so the Old Germanic rites and rituals have a natural almost genetic appeal. So Pork features often in the feasting meal. Hope that answers Bill's question Charles Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today!Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/ <*> Your email settings: Individual Email | Traditional <*> To change settings online go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/join (Yahoo! ID required) <*> To change settings via email: zen_forum-dig...@yahoogroups.com zen_forum-fullfeatu...@yahoogroups.com <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: zen_forum-unsubscr...@yahoogroups.com <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
Re: [Zen] Re: Introduction
bill..hang on just hang on..i might just have a lot in common with this paganism...charles does the pagan believe in spirituality and souls?...merle Charles, Welcome! You've jointed just in time to replace Merle whom you won't have a chance to get to know, but suffice to say she's taken her membership and soul with her to greener pastures. I've never met a self-described Pagan before. Just what does "follow the yearly round of my ancestors" mean? What does it entail? Thanks...Bill! --- In Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com, "Charles" wrote: > > I live near Victoria on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. I have the odd > combination of being devoted to Zen and the Pagan way of life. My Zen > practice is of Shikantaza after the Soto School and the Pagan aspect means > that I follow the yearly round of my ancestors. > > At age 70+ I have seen much of Northern Canada and recently arrived in the > South to be near medical facilities. My main pursuit is Soumack weaving on a > very fine scale which comes from living in the restricted space of a > condominium. There is no room for a full size loom so I work on a mini one. > > Blessings be! > > Charles >
[Zen] Re: Introduction
Charles, Welcome! You've jointed just in time to replace Merle whom you won't have a chance to get to know, but suffice to say she's taken her membership and soul with her to greener pastures. I've never met a self-described Pagan before. Just what does "follow the yearly round of my ancestors" mean? What does it entail? Thanks...Bill! --- In Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com, "Charles" wrote: > > I live near Victoria on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. I have the odd > combination of being devoted to Zen and the Pagan way of life. My Zen > practice is of Shikantaza after the Soto School and the Pagan aspect means > that I follow the yearly round of my ancestors. > > At age 70+ I have seen much of Northern Canada and recently arrived in the > South to be near medical facilities. My main pursuit is Soumack weaving on a > very fine scale which comes from living in the restricted space of a > condominium. There is no room for a full size loom so I work on a mini one. > > Blessings be! > > Charles > Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today!Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/ <*> Your email settings: Individual Email | Traditional <*> To change settings online go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/join (Yahoo! ID required) <*> To change settings via email: zen_forum-dig...@yahoogroups.com zen_forum-fullfeatu...@yahoogroups.com <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: zen_forum-unsubscr...@yahoogroups.com <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
RE: [Zen] Re: Introduction
And thank you for your reply dear Anthony. I am so looking forward to Bill, s teaching of the Zen technique. I am thankful to you for the 4 Bodishatvic vows. All beings everywhere suffer, let your heart go out to them all in spontaneous and immeasurable compassion. Namaste. Myoken From: Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Anthony Wu Sent: Wednesday, 9 November 2011 8:52 AM To: Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com Subject: Re: [Zen] Re: Introduction Myoken, Thank you for your impressive story. I agree with you that you are better off as a lone practitioner, rather than fall into a gossip group. However, it will be helpful if you find a sangha that suits you. I am in a similar position, living in a noisy city of Singapore with a large number of Buddhist groups. But none of them are suitable enough for me to concentrate on. Years ago I practiced in a zen group in Hong Kong under the guidance of the Korean zen master Seung Sahn, and found its way good for me. Though in between I also engaged in a Tibetan Tantric approach, I am basically sitting zen in the Korean way. I am 72 years old and don't expect to get enlightened before I die, but enjoy, like you say, 'Buddhist serenity and peace' in the process.
Re: [Zen] Re: Introduction
Myoken, Thank you for your impressive story. I agree with you that you are better off as a lone practitioner, rather than fall into a gossip group. However, it will be helpful if you find a sangha that suits you. I am in a similar position, living in a noisy city of Singapore with a large number of Buddhist groups. But none of them are suitable enough for me to concentrate on. Years ago I practiced in a zen group in Hong Kong under the guidance of the Korean zen master Seung Sahn, and found its way good for me. Though in between I also engaged in a Tibetan Tantric approach, I am basically sitting zen in the Korean way. I am 72 years old and don't expect to get enlightened before I die, but enjoy, like you say, 'Buddhist serenity and peace' in the process. Sakyamuni Buddha has devised 84,000 ways of dharma to suit people of different propensities. So you find Zen, Shingon, Tibetan Tantra, Mahayana practices, Theravada etc. They all have different meditation approaches. When I followed Tibetan Tantra, I was taught to 'visualize' some objects to help in concentration. It worked, but after a while, I developed a headache, as I did when I tried to practice qigong when I was young. At last I discovered the zen way of no visualization and no distraction suits me best. At least I don't believe it will go wrong. All teachers I ever met say that you should not go the 'extreme' way without guidance of a qualified teacher. Our moderator Bill Smart is a qualified, enlightened zen master. His zen technique is something for you to learn. I understand your area of Australia, although I was in your country only once in big cities of Sydney and Melbourne. But years ago, I landed in a 'town' called Luling, in Texas USA and checked into a small hotel. When I looked around, I saw three houses and a gas station cum shop, and there was absolutely nothing else. Every day I drove hours in the middle of nowhere to a chemical plant where I worked. What a relief you can imagine when I got into that smelly plant. I would like to quote the four Bodhisatva vows from Philip Kaplan's book Zen, Dawn in the West: Four Bodhisattvic Vows l All beings, without number, I vow to liberate. l Endless blind passions I vow to uproot. l Dharma gates, beyond measure, I vow to penetrate. l The great way of Buddha I vow to attain. They are just let you strive for attaining you own Buddha nature, so don't worry about the impossible job of liberating 7 billion people in the world. Anthony From: Myoken4 To: Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com Sent: Tuesday, 8 November 2011 1:49 PM Subject: RE: [Zen] Re: Introduction Hello there AnthonyJ, First I must tell you that I am not yet a Zen practioner in the full sense if that can be acceptable to the group.. I am here to learn of Zen, the practice, the traditons, etc. I have been a practising “lone” Buddhist for 9 years now. May I explain my situation over that time period. Nine years ago my husband and I shifted from a small town in the state of Victoria Australia to…. the northern outback of Queensland Australia. Australia is a vast continent and much of it is still sparsely populated in the northern parts. Upon shifting into an area of the outback I found myself with time to “think”, time to weigh up my life and set importances or not. I was spending more time on the internet either reading articles of interest and depth, or making friends through internet groups. I began making computer stationery, and sharing same…. While looking for some scenery background effects, I came across some that was marked with Buddhist serenity and peace as part of the description. Ah…what is Buddhism I thought. So….I searched out Buddhism, it,s practices , schools etc. I chose Mayhayana to start with…J) After some study of same and inner encouragement, I started a quiet group on the internet for “lone Buddhists”..hoping to find others like myself. I had taught myself how to meditate , and to study the sutras… Although my meditating position was restricted due to no blood flow to my right leg..which I knew not the cause at the time. Anyway…( the story goes on )…after a couple of years I had maybe 25 or so lone practioners on my group…one of which was a Japanese Shingon priest, another a Tibetan monk.. This gave me a wonderful insight into some Buddhist principles etc. I had a strong need to take formal Buddhist vows…which developed a strong feeling of helping me within the Japanes Shingon priest…..who offered to work out a formal Mayhayana ceremony for taking my Buddhist vows…much to my delight and the perhaps consternation of the Tibetan monk..a lovely man, but he disagreed with the situation..which was oaky.( Please smile with me). The Shingon priest who lived in the USA, sent me a ceremony that he had written out on wordpad with fu
RE: [Zen] Re: Introduction
Mayhayana and Dogzchen, but I loved to look at all Buddhist practices and schools. Meditation was a lovely and integral part of my day. Then we decided to shift again due to the need for medical help… shifting to an island off the coast of Queensland, a tiny island, 3 kilometres by 2 kilometres. There was a doctor on the island that we were on who serviced the whole of the 5 bay islands..so I was able to get my leg “sorted out”. Ah! Now I could meditate in comfort ..yes!:-) After 2 years on the island my hubby felt he would like to travel the breadth and the whole of our country by caravan. We took 3 years to do it, during which my personal Buddhist practice was less;- So many places to see, so many exciting things and folk. We stopped travelling…. Now we have bought a very humble abode at a beachside village in Queensland, very peaceful…and I can practice “properly” ? And I do believe there will be a formal practice somewhere near. Forgive me for the long story…but wanted to give an introduction and answer your question in doing so. I no longer have contact with the Shingon priest, as he has gone into a Shingon order.. not sure if that is a good explanation, but contact has been lost. I still read of the Tibetan monks practice that was on that group I had on the internet…but I no longer have the group, I closed it, some time back. I find that I am able to practice alone, by using Buddhist principals , I am happy with it, I enjoy it, and feel right about it. My practice is more about compassion towards others and , I enjoy long walks whilst meditating too, I can stop and look or not look out to sea for long periods, or maybe even do a little “cloud mediation” at times, enjoy so much of nature and it, s abundance here, I even have a goanna living in the roof…J)) My hubby is very happy here, and hopes that we may travel again someday maybe, maybeJ) I know that I still feel the need to learn , being settled and of an older age perhaps? Best Wishes to you Anthony, and all here that welcome me. I shall probably be very quiet now… Namaste. Myoken. From: Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Anthony Wu Sent: Monday, 7 November 2011 4:36 PM To: Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com Subject: Re: [Zen] Re: Introduction Myoken, I am interested to know how you practice alone? Anthony From: Myoken4 To: Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com Sent: Monday, 7 November 2011 8:32 AM Subject: RE: [Zen] Re: Introduction Hello there Bill!:-) I practice alone. Best Wishes. Myoken -Original Message- From: Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com <mailto:Zen_Forum%40yahoogroups.com> [mailto:Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com <mailto:Zen_Forum%40yahoogroups.com> ] On Behalf Of Bill! Sent: Sunday, 6 November 2011 5:53 PM To: Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com <mailto:Zen_Forum%40yahoogroups.com> Subject: [Zen] Re: Introduction Myoken, Welcome! We have members from all over the world. Do you belong to a zen group in Australia or do you practice alone? ...Bill! --- In Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com <mailto:Zen_Forum%40yahoogroups.com> , "myokenaustralia" wrote: > > Hello everyone, > my namem is Myoken, and I live in Australia . > Thankyou for having me here. > Myoken. > Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today!Yahoo! Groups Links
Re: [Zen] Re: Introduction
Anthony, Until this too, is dropped - we all practice alone. Mike From: Anthony Wu To: "Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com" Sent: Monday, 7 November 2011, 15:35 Subject: Re: [Zen] Re: Introduction Myoken, I am interested to know how you practice alone? Anthony From: Myoken4 To: Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com Sent: Monday, 7 November 2011 8:32 AM Subject: RE: [Zen] Re: Introduction Hello there Bill!:-) I practice alone. Best Wishes. Myoken -Original Message- From: Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Bill! Sent: Sunday, 6 November 2011 5:53 PM To: Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com Subject: [Zen] Re: Introduction Myoken, Welcome! We have members from all over the world. Do you belong to a zen group in Australia or do you practice alone? ...Bill! --- In Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com, "myokenaustralia" wrote: > > Hello everyone, > my namem is Myoken, and I live in Australia . > Thankyou for having me here. > Myoken. > Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today!Yahoo! Groups Links
Re: [Zen] Re: Introduction
Myoken, I am interested to know how you practice alone? Anthony From: Myoken4 To: Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com Sent: Monday, 7 November 2011 8:32 AM Subject: RE: [Zen] Re: Introduction Hello there Bill!:-) I practice alone. Best Wishes. Myoken -Original Message- From: Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Bill! Sent: Sunday, 6 November 2011 5:53 PM To: Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com Subject: [Zen] Re: Introduction Myoken, Welcome! We have members from all over the world. Do you belong to a zen group in Australia or do you practice alone? ...Bill! --- In Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com, "myokenaustralia" wrote: > > Hello everyone, > my namem is Myoken, and I live in Australia . > Thankyou for having me here. > Myoken. > Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today!Yahoo! Groups Links
RE: [Zen] Re: Introduction
Hello there Bill!:-) I practice alone. Best Wishes. Myoken -Original Message- From: Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Bill! Sent: Sunday, 6 November 2011 5:53 PM To: Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com Subject: [Zen] Re: Introduction Myoken, Welcome! We have members from all over the world. Do you belong to a zen group in Australia or do you practice alone? ...Bill! --- In Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com, "myokenaustralia" wrote: > > Hello everyone, > my namem is Myoken, and I live in Australia . > Thankyou for having me here. > Myoken. > Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today!Yahoo! Groups Links Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today!Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/ <*> Your email settings: Individual Email | Traditional <*> To change settings online go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/join (Yahoo! ID required) <*> To change settings via email: zen_forum-dig...@yahoogroups.com zen_forum-fullfeatu...@yahoogroups.com <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: zen_forum-unsubscr...@yahoogroups.com <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
[Zen] Re: Introduction
Myoken, Welcome! We have members from all over the world. Do you belong to a zen group in Australia or do you practice alone? ...Bill! --- In Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com, "myokenaustralia" wrote: > > Hello everyone, > my namem is Myoken, and I live in Australia . > Thankyou for having me here. > Myoken. > Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today!Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/ <*> Your email settings: Individual Email | Traditional <*> To change settings online go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/join (Yahoo! ID required) <*> To change settings via email: zen_forum-dig...@yahoogroups.com zen_forum-fullfeatu...@yahoogroups.com <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: zen_forum-unsubscr...@yahoogroups.com <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
[Zen] Re: Introduction to the group
Greetings and welcome Audry :-) --- In Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.com, "audreydc1983" wrote: > > Hello all, my name is Audrey (Aud for short), and I am just now starting to > indulge my interest in Zen. My background is military: My father was in the > Navy for 20 years, and I was in the Marines for 2 Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today!Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/ <*> Your email settings: Individual Email | Traditional <*> To change settings online go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/join (Yahoo! ID required) <*> To change settings via email: zen_forum-dig...@yahoogroups.com zen_forum-fullfeatu...@yahoogroups.com <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: zen_forum-unsubscr...@yahoogroups.com <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
Re: [Zen] Re: Introduction
Sorry, nope. Rob Bryant who is an office drone in central california. :-)- Original Message From: Bill Smart <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>To: Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.comSent: Saturday, August 5, 2006 10:36:14 PMSubject: RE: [Zen] Re: Introduction Rob Bryant? Is this the Aussie Rob Bryant who used to work for NCR in London and now works for IBM? ..Bill! * * * * * * Scanned by VisNetic MailScan for SMTP Servers. Visit http://www.deerfiel d.com/products/ visnetic_ mailscan. * * * * * * __._,_.___ Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today! YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS Visit your group "Zen_Forum" on the web. To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service. __,_._,___
RE: [Zen] Re: Introduction
Rob Bryant? Is this the Aussie Rob Bryant who used to work for NCR in London and now works for IBM? ..Bill! ** Scanned by VisNetic MailScan for SMTP Servers. Visit http://www.deerfield.com/products/visnetic_mailscan. ** Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today! Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/ <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
RE: [Zen] Re: Introduction
On Sunday, August 06, 2006 John Wrote: >Bill, I snipped your good advice as too much of a good thing is just too much. :) Yeah..that happens a lot...Bill! ** Scanned by VisNetic MailScan for SMTP Servers. Visit http://www.deerfield.com/products/visnetic_mailscan. ** Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today! Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/ <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
Re: [Zen] Re: Introduction
Thanks to all who welcomed me!-- Rob- Original Message From: John Davis <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>To: Zen_Forum@yahoogroups.comSent: Saturday, August 5, 2006 11:42:25 AMSubject: [Zen] Re: Introduction Posted by: "Bill Smart" [EMAIL PROTECTED] org billsmart Wed Aug 2, 2006 5:42 am (PST) On Tuesday, August 01, 2006 4:20 AM Rob wrote: >Does anyone have any suggestions about where to start? Hi Rob. (Don't we already have a Rob? Guess not...) IF we do, we can always use another Rob...Hiya Rob, welcome to the online Zendo! Bill, I snipped your good advice as too much of a good thing is just too much. :) John Ki is extending, John Davis __._,_.___ Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today! YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS Visit your group "Zen_Forum" on the web. To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service. __,_._,___
[Zen] Re: Introduction - and now for something completely different.
On Tuesday, August 01, 2006 4:20 AM Rob wrote: >Does anyone have any suggestions about where to start? Hi Rob. (Don't we already have a Rob? Guess not...) Then again, we could take a cue from The Australian Philosophers' Drinking Guild... Why don't we all call ourselves Bruce? It would avoid confusion. G'Day Bruce! Bruce Ki is extending, John Davis "Let us have a Universal Mind that loves and protects all creation and helps all things grow and develop. To unify mind and body and become One with the Universe is the ultimate purpose of our study." -- Koichi Tohei Sensei "Masakatsu - Righteous victory, proper attitude Agatsu - Victory over self Katsuhayahi - Victory over speed of light, doing things so perfectly that time is no longer a factor" -- Akira Tohei Sensei, no relation to the above. This from an interview in www.aikidoonline.com/ . "Beware the Medical-Industrial Complex!" -- John Davis Visit my webstore: http://eismembers.com/member/DavisDryGoodsandEmporium/ __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today! Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/ <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
[Zen] Re: Introduction
Posted by: "Bill Smart" [EMAIL PROTECTED] billsmart Wed Aug 2, 2006 5:42 am (PST) On Tuesday, August 01, 2006 4:20 AM Rob wrote: >Does anyone have any suggestions about where to start? Hi Rob. (Don't we already have a Rob? Guess not...) IF we do, we can always use another Rob...Hiya Rob, welcome to the online Zendo! Bill, I snipped your good advice as too much of a good thing is just too much. :) John Ki is extending, John Davis "Let us have a Universal Mind that loves and protects all creation and helps all things grow and develop. To unify mind and body and become One with the Universe is the ultimate purpose of our study." -- Koichi Tohei Sensei "Masakatsu - Righteous victory, proper attitude Agatsu - Victory over self Katsuhayahi - Victory over speed of light, doing things so perfectly that time is no longer a factor" -- Akira Tohei Sensei, no relation to the above. This from an interview in www.aikidoonline.com/ . "Beware the Medical-Industrial Complex!" -- John Davis Visit my webstore: http://eismembers.com/member/DavisDryGoodsandEmporium/ __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com Current Book Discussion: any Zen book that you recently have read or are reading! Talk about it today! Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zen_Forum/ <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
