2012.02.27 _ 70

I have so noticed my grumbling, story-telling, egoic mind at this sesshin, always feeling annoyance at the lack of disabled facilities. But I remember a Basho poem where he stayed in a stable. I'm sure he slept contentedly too.

Eaten alive by
lice and fleas -- now the horse
beside my pillow pees

Sitting meditation in the evening. Vacations are even worse than weekends for finding undisturbed time - I have to admit not meditating every day in the last week. Got to get back into the habit.

welcome back, Wester!
Great poem, Zen. :-)
More time practice this morning.

"genuine heart of sadness" as pema titled his session tonight. From the Shambhala website glossary:

You feel sore and soft, and if you open your eyes to the rest of the world, you feel tremendous sadness." (pg 45) "The genuine heart of sadness comes from feeling that your nonexistent heart is full. You would like to spill you heart's blood, give you heart to others. For the warrior, this experience of sad and tender heart is what gives birth to fearlessness.

Conventionally, being fearless means that you are not afraid... Real fearlessness is the product of tenderness. It comes from letting the world tickle your heart, you raw and beautiful heart. You are willing to open up, without resistance or shyness, and face the world. You are willing to share your heart with others." edited 05:59, 28 Feb 2012

Just witnessing. Noting the major phases of occupations and ways of being during the day, and slowing slightly and letting open into each transition. Like long waves in the ocean.