Mountains are Mountains Again

wabi sabi and the notion of a ‘modest awakening’

“Before one studies Zen, mountains are mountains and waters are waters; after a first glimpse into the truth of Zen, mountains are no longer mountains and waters are no longer waters; after enlightenment, mountains are once again mountains and waters once again waters.”

— DOGEN

What is awakening? 

Each of us will answer that question differently. The answers may tell us more about ourselves, about what we value, than about the nature of awakening. 

It seems that the only thing we can predict about insight, as each stage unfolds, is that it will be the complete opposite of what we were expecting! Ha ha ha ha ho! 

Our session together takes this question as its starting point and together we’ll get curious about what a wabi sabi awakening would look like. 

As Andrew Olendzki says: 

What if the nirvana experienced by the Buddha in Bodhgaya turns out to be something considerably less magnificent than that of later mythic tradition, yet at the same time, by virtue of its being actually attainable by ordinary folk, something of unparalleled value?

Vajradarshini is known for her creative approach to dharma and meditation.  Here's her current website: Red Ladder Studio: Where Dharma Meets Art.  We're very happy to have us visit again, this time through zoom.  

Please register below by noon Sep 11 if you would like to attend this online class and we will send you the link by 2pm that day.

If you miss the registration deadline or have questions please email us and we'll respond if we're able. 

To register: enter the amount you wish to donate in the Event Donation box and click add to cart. Thank you!

Suggested donation $40 to $20 or whatever you an afford. All donations are greatly appreciated but if you are facing financial difficulties please feel free to enter 0, and click 'pay later' on the payment page.