Put It Down: Embracing Compassion Beyond Judgment

In this episode, "Put It Down: Embracing Compassion Beyond Judgment," we delve into the teachings of Shasekishu Case 14, "Muddy Road." This classic Zen story reveals how clinging to guilt, shame, or rigid ideas of right and wrong can keep us entangled in suffering. Sensei Michael Brunner guides us through the lesson of letting go of labels and judgments, allowing compassion to arise naturally from a place of non-attachment. Through this teisho, we’re encouraged to engage with life fully, respond to the needs of the moment, and walk the path of awakening with open-hearted clarity.

Episode 8 of the Awakening Streams: The One River Zen Podcast podcast, hosted by Sensei Michael Brunner Ottawa, titled "Put It Down: Embracing Compassion Beyond Judgment" was published on November 9, 2024 and runs 13 minutes.

November 9, 2024 ·13m · Awakening Streams: The One River Zen Podcast

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Summary

Episode Description

In this teisho titled "Put It Down: Embracing Compassion Beyond Judgment," Sensei Michael Brunner explores Shasekishu Case 14, "Muddy Road." This Zen case brings us face-to-face with the challenges of releasing guilt, shame, and the stories we cling to about ourselves and others. Sensei Brunner encourages us to examine how judgments and labels often obscure the reality of the present moment, keeping us bound to suffering.

Through the lens of "Muddy Road," we learn how to soften these boundaries, letting go of rigid ideas and allowing compassion to arise naturally. This practice becomes a way of moving beyond discursive thinking, helping us to actualize our Buddha nature in our daily lives.

Key points include:

Recognizing and releasing attachment to guilt and shame
Embracing the present moment without labels or preconceptions
Allowing compassion to flow freely, unhindered by fixed judgments
Practical guidance on embodying compassion in real-world situations

Tune in to deepen your understanding of how Zen practice teaches us to "put it down" and engage with life from a place of clarity and kindness.

For those interested in joining us for live meditation and Dharma talks, visit One River Zen for more information on schedules and events.

🪷 Awakening Streams: The One River Zen Podcast
Teachings and reflections with Sensei Michael Brunner (Sōen) of One River Zen Center, 121 E Prospect St, Ottawa IL 61350.

🌐 Learn more & join practice: https://www.oneriverzen.org
🎧 Listen to more episodes: Awakening Streams Podcast
🙏 Support the Sangha: https://www.oneriverzen.org/donate

#SenseiMichaelBrunner #MichaelBrunnerOttawa #OneRiverZen #ZenKoan #ZenPodcast #OttawaIL #SotoZen

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