This afternoon the breeze is carrying the lilacs’ fragrance through the open window. The sun is shining and the air is warm. However, I suffer. I compare what I want to get done before this evening’s discussion group with what I will get done and reality is different from what I want it to be. I want to do what I want to do, not what the reality of my life will allow. In the midst of a perfect day, The Four Noble Truths are still operating just like the Buddha said they would.
I’m lost deep in the first two Noble Truths, causing myself displeasure and lack of peace by thirsting for what makes me feel good. I forget the Third Noble Truth: that there is an alternative to the round of clinging and suffering. I totally ignore the Eightfold Noble Path of right understanding, right thought, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration. The difference between my wants and reality irritates me and the irritation makes me less productive, less at peace, and less useful than I might be.
I’ve often wondered why those four statements are called noble truths. Maybe you’ve wondered that, too.
A look at the dictionary tells us that, among other things, something noble is
admirable in dignity of conception, manner of expression, execution, or composition
of an admirably high quality; notably superior; excellent
of an exalted moral or mental character or excellence – magnanimous; honorable, estimable, worthy, meritorious
having dignity or eminence
The Four Noble Truths definitely have these attributes. They accurately and clearly express the fundamental way in which the world works. They are simple and immediate – admirable in manner of expression. They are easy to understand and they are an excellent way to live our lives. They are excellent in moral character, leading to honorable, wise, compassionate thoughts, words, and deeds.
They are also universal. They operate anytime, anywhere where there’s thinking and clinging to ideas going on. Seeing and taking care of the differences between our wants and the reality of our lives is a constant part of existence.
However, if we follow the Four Noble Truths and use the Eightfold Noble Path to stop clinging to our ideas and directly live in reality, we, too, become noble. We become people of excellence – honorable, worthy, and magnanimous. We also have dignity – grace and style. Following the Noble Truths, we become one who can be trusted to act and speak with wholesomeness. Our clarity and graciousness makes others want to be associated with us.
We have eminence – a good reputation. People respect us and are happy to work with us. They see us as clear-eyed and fair, able to get things done that are good for everyone.
This nobility is not just exterior. The ability to put aside our ideas and work with the reality of life makes our spirits noble. Our thoughts become more clear and magnanimous, less filled with judgment and attachment. The honor and dignity with which we act give us lightness of spirit. We live in peace and contentment.
Doing the Four Noble Truths is difficult. It’s hard to be constantly on the lookout for our clingings and to practice the Eightfold Path. But what happens on the way is definitely worth it. Let’s try it once more.
The Zen Center offers a one-evening introduction to Zen Buddhism and zazen. This includes a talk about Zen, zazen instruction, a short period of zazen and an opportunity for questions. Donations are welcome; there is no fee.
May 20: Work Day 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Work day is a chance to do the Buddha’s practice of work and to take care of the center at the same time. And we can enjoy ourselves. We do lots of different things, both outside and inside. There is always something for everyone, no matter what what your needs are. You can also develop your own work if you see something that needs to be done. Just bring your enthusiasm and attention. There is usually veggie pizza from Zoey’s - made from scratch with fresh ingredients. Come, add your effort and have a good time. Even an hour or two is a great help.
May 21: All-day Sitting 5:00 am-4:40 pm All-day sittings are informal times of sitting together - a chance to do a mini-retreat for a morning or spend an entire day sitting, walking, chanting and sharing food. You can come and go as your schedule allows. If you’re from out of town and need to stay overnight, there’s room at the center. Donations are welcome; there is no fee. A typical all-day sitting schedule is available here.
Other News
Thank you
To Sally Taylor for setting up the display on Buddhism for Linn-Mar High School’s Diversity Day and being there to answer students’ questions. Also to Nadine Borngraeber for putting together the display.
To Suisan Goldberg, Gus Gustafson, John Rathbun, and Julie Shaw for researching options for replacing the Buddha who wandered away from our porch. And thanks to John and Julie for donating the new figure. Gus is designing a new foundation and the new Buddha should appear on the porch soon. At the moment he’’s sitting in one of the entry area chairs. Come see him.
Remembering Brian Reynolds
One of our long-time members, Brian Reynolds, died on May 4 and we will miss him. He joined the Center in 2004 and received the precepts in 2005. His dharma name was Ankou – Peaceful Light. He left Cedar Rapids in 2008 to take a job in the state of Washington, but he remained a member and supporter. He was a regular at Great Sky sesshin and he continued to practice with Zuiko through email. His contributions often appeared in the print newsletter.
Brian was a truly dedicated practitioner who authentically sought the dharma and allowed it to wake him up. Zuiko and the rest of us will miss him deeply. Here is a poem from him about getting up at Great Sky.
Morning fog swirls silently Tea house floats in predawn light. Deep breath, three bells, new day
Coming in June
June 17: Work Day
9:00 am-3:00 pm
June 25: All-day Sitting with Jisho Siebert
Jisho is an old friend of Zen Center who, in addition to being ordained, works in prevention of domestic violence and violence against women. She is a wonderful practitioner and her dharma talks are dynamic and real.You can get general information about all-day sittings above in our May offerings.
Other Sitting & Sangha Opportunities
Bloomington-Normal, Illinois meets at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday mornings at Palms Together Yoga, 1717 R.T. Dunn Drive, Unit E in Bloomington. For more information, visit http://bnzengroup.wordpress.com or contact the group.
Des Moines, Iowa Daishin McCabe will be leading half-day sittings at from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. at Pure Land of Iowa in Des Moines, on May 13, June 3, July 29, and August 12. All are welcome to sit with him. In addition to sitting, there will be guided meditation, dharma talk, and group discussion. For more information you can contact Daishin.
Cedar Falls, Iowa meets Saturday mornings at 7:20 a.m. and Tuesday evenings at 7:20 p.m. in St. Luke’s Episcopal Church at 2410 Melrose Drive. For more information, email them at cfzensitting@cfu.net.
