5.On Manifestation, Loss, Communication, Passion, Expectations, and Daily Routines

Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - responds to questions from students in an inspiring manner based on his Zen practice and life experiences. He reminds the listener how to stay awake to life and understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind. This episode was recorded during a weekly online meeting of questions & responses. For more information: https://www.zaltho.org If you want to ask Zen monk Claude AnShin Thomas a question, please feel free to write to [email protected]. Zen Book recommendations: -       Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021) -       AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003) -       On the Edges of Sleep: Poems of War and Memory (Oakwood Publishing 2024)   https://www.zaltho.org/books/ To support, donate. Questions and Time Stamps: 1:16 What does the word "manifestation" mean to you?2:45 What is the purpose of your observation about your cushion that you just shared? 7:10 Would you speak about your experience losing someone close to you? 14:28 Is there a specific ritual you do when a human or natural disaster occurs? 16:30 When you go to a prison, how do you work with the inmates? 18:30 Who or what supported you in becoming a better communicator? 24:46 What is Vietnam-Veterans-Day and what does it mean to you? 26:59 Is having a passion for practice ever problematic? 30:06 How did you start meditation groups in other countries? 38:06  Is following a daily series of specific actions a useful practice? 40:08 How do you relate to passion? 41:18 How do you deal with expecting too much of someone else? 47:50 Do you have an interest to go to Russia?