Always Return to One

About 17 years ago, I formally learned to sit and practice Zazen (trans to sit in unification) at Rochester Zen Center. It took place during an "Introduction to Zen" weekend. If you asked me what I learned or remember about the experience, I would say only "three" things. First I remember being a little frightened, because I wasn't sure if "the whole Zen thing was real or imagined. It sounded good in books, I wonder what it really tastes like."

The Second thing I remember was falling off the elevated sitting positions that held the tatami mats, in the Zendo. That was a little embarrassing. There's nothing like a bruised body and ego, to start your spiritual journey.

The Third thing I learned, came from a response to a question to the main teacher, Bodhin Sensei. The question was, "What do you do when you loose count of your breath?" Bodhin Sensei replied, "Simple. Always return to One. Don't think about messing up in counting the breath, just immediately return to One."

At the time and even now that response serves as very, very, very practical advice, when practicing Zazen. That direction is also handy in living our life as well.

To me "Always return to One," does not just apply to a number, but a so-called "State of Mind." When I am off center, and I later recognize that I am off center, don't think about it, just move back to my emotional, psychological and physical center. Just return to one. Don't do anything else.

Put another way, "I didn't sit Zazen on Sunday." Just return to One and Sit Zazen Monday. "I'm upset. That person hurt my feelings and was mean to me." Just return to one and know that it's not others that hurt our feelings, but that we hurt ourselves by how we allow words and actions to impact us. "I fell of my bike." Just return to One and get back on. "Gosh, that picture I just took on my digital camera didn't turn out the way I thought it should." Just return to One and take another picture. "My co-working isn't listening to me. They promised to take care of _________." Just return to one and fine ways to communicate in a language that is impactful and meaningful to them (and not you). Some people are thinkers and other people are more visual. Communications based on what's heard, not what is said. Just return to One.

Every moment, every where, every when, "Just return to One." We can work on returning to "Zero," next week. This is our practice.

Gassho,

Jaye Morris, Curator
digitalZENDO