“How does what you say and do really benefit living beings?”
We live in a world filled with beauty and terror. Whether we are experiencing euphoric glee, wrenching pain, or something in between, can our feelings lead to actions that benefit living beings? And not just some beings from the specific groups we like. Do we have the courage and compassion to do what is beneficial and true for all beings?
In this recent dharma talk, Koshin Sensei explores the third of the Four Attractions of a Bodhisattva, beneficial acts. How often does our own self-orientation cause us to forget about everyone else? How often do our own preferences and opinions limit our capacity to care for those who are different from us? Through moving stories of the precariousness of life – a knife edge we all know, but often push aside – Koshin reminds us what Dogen Zenji teaches. “Beneficial acts means using skillful means to benefit living beings both high and low. For example, looking to the near and distant future we carry out expedient acts to benefit others.” Shakyamuni Buddha, and the generations after him, have shown us what practicing beneficial action looks like. Even in the face of excruciating loss, these ancestors acted for the benefit of others. They avoided what has been so popular among our species – retribution, retreat, and a refusal to remain in relationship with one another. Koshin encourages us to practice from a place of gratitude for those who show us that this awakening way is all about what we do.
ZENTALK NOTES
Koshin Paley Ellison Sensei is a Zen teacher, Jungian psychotherapist, leader in contemplative care, and co-founder of an educational non-profit called the New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care. His books, grounded in Buddhist wisdom and practice, have gained national attention. Through its numerous educational programs, contemplative retreats, and Soto Zen Buddhist practices, the New York Zen Center touches thousands of lives every year.
MUSIC
Heart Sutra by Kanho Yakushiji – Buddhist priest and musician of the Rinzai sect and Imaji temple in Imabari, Japan. In 2003, he formed “KISSAQUO”, a songwriting duo based in Kyoto.
NYZC PUBLICATIONS
- Untangled here: https://bit.ly/untangled-book
- Wholehearted: Slow Down, Help Out, Wake Up here: https://amzn.to/2JTKF1t
- Awake At The Bedside here: https://amzn.to/3aijXdL
CONNECT WITH US
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
