A monk asked Ummon, "What is the teaching of a whole lifetime?"
Ummon replied, "An appropriate response."
—Blue Cliff Record, Case 14
Responding appropriately to the demands of life is a foundational practice for awakened living. In relationship with those we love, and in meeting the wider world, our capacity to respond with clarity and steadiness can feel obscured when fear arises.
In this day of practice, we will gently and directly explore the nature of fear. How does fear take shape in body and mind? In what ways does it narrow our vision or limit our freedom? What becomes possible when we turn toward fear with awareness and compassion, rather than turning away? How do we respond appropriately in fearful times?
Through zazen, Dharma teachings, guided reflection, and discussion, we will investigate how accepting fear—just as it is—can soften its grip. We will practice taking refuge in ways that no longer allow fear to stop or drive us, instead establishing a path for appropriate response.
Participants are invited to arrive early in the day and attend the Dharma Talk at 10:15 am with the guiding teacher Shosan Victoria Austin. The talk will also be live-streamed via the online zendo.
Participants are invited to enjoy tea and cookies and a vegetarian lunch (by donation onsite) at Beginner’s Mind Temple.
This registration is for the onsite workshop at City Center on Saturday, October 31. There is a separate online workshop on Sunday, November 1. Participants are welcome to register for either the onsite workshop, the online workshop, or both.
- Benefactor Ticket Price: $87
- General Ticket Price: $70
- Member (Become an SFZC Member): $63
San Francisco Zen Center is committed to making Zen practice and the Dharma accessible to all who seek it by offering both a General support fund and a dedicated BIPOC support fund. Please email supportfunds@sfzc.org for more information BEFORE signing up.
Or call 415-354-0360.