Dear Friends,
Why take the time to meditate when we have so much to do?
The short answer is: Meditation adds meaning and purpose to our otherwise hurried activities. I learned this from my teacher Soan and his wife Jigen. They are the most energetic, involved and happiest people I know. They tend to a 1 acre yard, volunteer at Fairchild Gardens, study and photograph butterflies, appreciate classical and world music, are involved with their children and grand children, and run a community Zen Center. How do they find the time and energy while maintaining ( as near as I can tell ) a 3 hour a day meditation practice?
How is this possible? We begin by being aware of the present moment without judgement or analysis. From that place of stability and calmness we face whatever arises. When the alarm clock rings just get up. No drama, no old stories. The only thought is "Its time to wake up and greet the day". When the trash can is full we empty it. No blame. No "Its not my job". Just the thought "The trash needs to be emptied let me do it now".
You can start with 5 minutes or 3 minutes or 1 minute. Just sit in a quiet place and focus on the breath. Being aware " I am inhaling. I am exhaling" Start there.
NEWS:
• As an experiment Rising Moon will be open on Monday mornings for the month of June. The door will open at 6:00 AM and tea will be served. Sitting will begin at 6:10. We will finish at 7:00 AM.
• Is there an author in the house? A new book of philosophical fables with an inspirational message titled The Philosophy of My Wandering Cat has been released by group member Elena Iglesias. If you like cats and stories about the path to enlightenment this new book may be of interest. Released on March 16, 2009 it is available on amazon or visit Elena's website www.elenaiglesias.net.
• Bob Cook recently participated in a fundraiser for the Community School that was held at The Grand Bay Club. Bob donated one of his large photographs for the event
• Work is continuing on the website www.kbzen.org. Several new sections have been added. Thanks to Karen Levison.
• Missing Person of the month. Has anyone heard from Nancye Cappola? She and her husband Michael moved to Homestead 2 years ago.
CALENDAR:
• Rising Moon meets on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at the home of Bill Durham 230 Sea View Dr. Please call or email prior to first visit. Schedule: 7:30 PM tea and light conversation, 8:00 chanting, 8:05 meditation, 8.25 slow walking, 8:35 meditation, and 9:00 finish. For additional information visit www.kbzen.org.
• Rising Moon will be open on Monday mornings at 6:00 AM during June 2009. See News section for details
• June 12 - 14 Weekend Zen Retreat. A great opportunity to leave the hustle and bustle of the everyday world behind for a weekend in Coconut Grove. Contact www.IZIF.org for details.
• Rising Moon Sitting Group is a satellite of The International Zen Institute of Florida.