Work in Progress

Samu (work) has a long history as a part of Zen monastic training. In our lineage of Zen, we emphasize the physical, manual labor aspect of Samu as a way to break through barriers and get Zen into our bones.

When selecting a work project for Keishin (online sesshin), I recommend selecting a task that is the equivalent of a rock that you don’t think you can move. Something that will require total focus and energy and keep you out of your head. If you are able to accomplish that then look for something even more ambitious. The rock that you cannot move or project that is beyond your grasp will teach you much more than the one that is within your known limits.

Diving into a project without hesitation and not holding back can be a joyous experience even when you find yourself falling short of the goal.