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At the study group last night, we discussed a way of looking at practice that has three faces. <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n
First is when practice is about <\/span>seeking<\/span><\/span>. Sometimes we manifest this by leaning forward in zazen, seeking kensho like a donkey chomping at the carrot dangling from the stick. This is often referred to (or justified) as the sudden approach and is associated with the Rinzai school (I don\u2019t see this as fair or accurate but that\u2019s not the point right now). <\/span><\/span><\/span>\n
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The second way of practice focuses on this moment\u2019s <\/span>experience<\/span><\/span>, whatever that is \u2013 delusion, anger, bliss \u2013 as the enlightenment at hand. This is quite popular because of the connections apparent with Western psychology \u2013 the nonjudgemental acceptance of whatever is arising. <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/div>\n
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Sometimes we manifest this by (subtly or not so subtly) slouching, head tilted down and the heart caved in. This is my observation \u2013 no offense intended \u2013 please check it out and report your findings! This orientation in practice is often referred to as the gradual approach and is associated with the Soto school (again, I don\u2019t see this as fair or accurate but that\u2019s still not the point right now).<\/span><\/span><\/span>\n
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