For more than thirty years Berkeley Zen Center has offered a Spring Practice Period. This year, our study and practice will center on Dogen’s Genjokoan (“The Koan of Everyday Life”), which he considered to be the essence of his teaching. Throughout the practice period, we will explore the practice-realization of true Reality right here, right now, in the middle of our everyday, complicated, “wanting it to be otherwise” lives.

I studied and memorized Genjokoan during my shuso practice period at Tassajara almost 20 years ago. It has been an anchor of my practice ever since, and it continues to inspire, encourage and surprise me as I read new translations and commentaries, and listen to talks by a range of teachers. Dogen’s use of poetic imagery of everyday experiences (firewood becoming ash, the moon reflected in water) continually points us back to our own immediate experience, inviting us to see this very moment as nothing other than Reality: ”Here is the place, here the Way unfolds.”

Longtime BZC member Colleen Busch, Myoka Eido (Subtle River/Endless Path), will share my seat and serve as Shuso (Head Student). Jeff Kastenbaum will hold the position of Benji (Shuso’s attendant), organizing sangha teas and assisting Colleen in various ways.

During practice period, we will be chanting the Repentances (“All my ancient tangled karma”) and Refuges (“I take refuge in Buddha”) at the start of morning service. Chant cards will be provided.

Practice period is traditionally a time to intensify our practice, to stretch ourselves a little more than we usually do, and to rededicate ourselves to the practice of awakening to our life–one moment at a time, nothing left out. As part of completing the practice period registration form, you might reflect on your heartfelt aspirations about practice during this time. And then, with full awareness of the ongoing commitments you already have, decide which elements of the practice period you can commit to. Even a small intensification of practice, repeated regularly, is highly beneficial and puts down increasingly strong roots. Our shared commitments support us all.

Everyone is welcome to attend all events during the practice period, whether or not you are formally enrolled. We encourage everyone to support the Practice Period and our Shuso in whatever way you can, and we look forward to sharing this time with you.