Summer Student

What are you taking back to your life outside of Tassajara?
Being at Tassajara this summer has helped me to fully engage with each thing for its own sake. I have a better understanding of work practice; even if I initially despise a task, if I'm fully present with it, there is no way to despise it. There is instead innate joy in the task. I did this the most in the library - it would have been easy to be slopping with recategorizing books, but knowing that my handwriting will be what someone will see for as long as the book is in the library made me feel the weight and joy of the task. I'm not a librarian, I'm just shepherding books.
What struck you about Tassajara?
I was playing with the idea of Bodhisattva as an experience instead of a physical manifestation. The meal chant before breakfast and lunch felt odd at first, but I really like it now. Everything at Tassajara is a gift made just for you, but also all beings are receiving a gift at that moment. Everything is happening for an individual and for the community at the same time. I would think of all the people who have filled up this teacup before me.
We sweep the leaves not for survival, but for the intimacy of practice, knowing we will have to do it again. My school has a quote: "The desert has a deep personality...you can hear it if you listen." Tassajara has a similar sense. The shop was shocking for how clean it is compared to other shops I've been in. The chain saws were so well maintained. It's nice to be able to contribute labor knowing that the objects and tools have been so well taken care of. Every part of the process is one of tending.
I also was impressed by how many teachers came through Tassajara this summer. You get to meet priests and know that they are doing their own thing back at their home sanghas. It felt ripe for play and serious inquiry.
What is your favorite Tassajara animal?
The fishes by the bathhouse! They came in all shapes and sizes. I could wash my hair in a waterfall and the fish would nibble my feet!