“Inattention is harmful. Attention is a refuge.”

Have you noticed how often we can lose contact with what’s around us? Even with the ones we love the most? Koshin Sensei invites us to consider this separation – to actually notice it and be embarrassed by the distances we create – and change our behavior. When we “lose contact with the dignity of each moment,” can we simply, continually, courageously practice bringing ourselves back into relationship?    

In this recent dharma talk, Koshin Sensei teaches us that the commitment to practice is about being with what we care about in a new way. “It is easy to say we care about things, but not put the energy in.” Can we look up from our small selves, expand our view of who and what matters, and care? We can begin with those closest to us and then let care and compassion ripple out. Or we can begin with star cluster NGC6744 and allow light from millions of years ago to open our minds to what else is possible. Either way, the point is to give a damn and commit to participating in what each moment has to offer. “Actually committing to something can open the world.” The opportunities to close the distance, connect with others, and care for the world arise with every breath. As long as we continue to breathe, we can show our gratitude for those who have shown us the awakening way – ancestors, friends, neighbors, and those we have yet to meet – by constantly showing up to our lives and caring for others.     

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.

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.

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• 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
  

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