Summer Ango 2018 Commitment Form

Commitment Form

Please use this period of time to intensify your practice of peacefully dwelling.

Valuing nature

We are not separate from the natural world. It endeavors at all times to remind us of this shared existence. How can we realize this intimate relationship?

I will explore my zazen, or the “dharma gate of joy and ease,” in all the contexts of my life…or at least three new ones:

(E.g. a park, by a stream, under a tree, on a rock)

1.

2.

3.

Other:

Letting it go

In the Bendowa, Dogen says that his aspiration to spread the teachings and save all sentient beings felt like a “heavy burden” on his shoulders until he “put aside hope” to “wander about like a cloud…”

What is keeping you from wandering at ease?

Thank you for your answer.

What is keeping you from wandering at ease?

Thank you for your answer.

What is keeping you from wandering at ease?

Thank you for your answer.

I will gently explore that which appears to prevent me from wandering at ease by:

(E.g. Spending the first few minutes of zazen sitting with the question above, exploring the question above with a sangha member or teacher, journaling)

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2.

3.

Other:

Picking it up

Dogen concludes Bendowa with uncharacteristic simplicity. He says, “Just consider that today is the beginning.” 

Wandering and at ease, what will you begin today?

(E.g. increased zazen for the duration of the ango period, a daily nap or rest period, a new poem, a service position)

1.

2.

3.

Other:

Please keep a copy of this form and your responses to reflect on throughout the course of ango. Also, consider mailing your form to the zendo, or bringing it to interview to discuss with a teacher. I look forward to deepening our practice together this summer.

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