We live in turbulent and challenging times. Who are we? What is our purpose in living? Why is it that we cause so much pain for ourselves and for those with whom we share the planet? How do we cut through the delusion and hyperbole? When difficulties appear how do we develop the presence and clarity to respond correctly?

Zen practice offers a way for each of us to understand this world and ourselves very deeply. We are engaged. We participate. We become intimate with our lives, our hearts, our minds and our total being. And we also become intimate with the lives, hearts and minds of those around us, in an ever-increasing circle of concern. The opposition between self and other dissolves. It is then possible to respond with true wisdom and compassion to the situation in front of us right now, complete, just as it is.