Zen in the City

Author: Aomen
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-12-01
Features: Zen is the best spiritual coach, dispelling the common confusion of concepts and revealing the deepest mysteries of human nature. With unconventional language, it opens a path of introspective awakening for modern urban dwellers. The path to experiencing the Dao is not about retreating to deep mountains for ascetic practices and solitude. On the contrary, it involves fully immersing oneself in the task of awakening through various forms of meditation, physical and mental healing, laughter and play, as well as creative work. Mopping the floor and meditating beside a Zen master in a temple are equally forms of meditation; facing trivialities with colleagues in the office is just as important as understanding the "Diamond Sutra" as taught by the Buddha. Even the joys and sorrows of romantic relationships contribute to discovering "who we are." In this attitude toward life, in this process of viewing the entire human existence as a journey of enlightenment, this book was created to help each of us see the Buddha within our hearts. The Buddha is not the exclusive property of any one person; it is the inherent essence within every individual. To become a Buddha does not necessarily mean becoming a Buddhist, nor does it require adherence to Buddhist beliefs. The very act of becoming a Buddha transcends all religious concepts—it is an innate right for every person. What you are to do is to let it walk alongside you, into your daily life, so that every aspect of your existence becomes an awakening, a grace, a blessing.