If we pay attention to what is actually in front of us--as opposed to what we are thinking about--then we know exactly why we are here: to change the diaper, help a friend, write an article. Whatever appears before us then becomes our purpose. 

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.

Dharma Talks

Why Are We Here? - 3/5/17

When we investigate our thoughts and emotions--the internal experiences that often have so much power over our happiness--we find that they are fleeting and substance-less. Then we find that there is no need to fight or abolish unpleasant emotions because they are empty of the very power that we imbue them with.

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.

Passions Are Empty - 3/12/17

Zen practice is not about recovering some pristine stare or original purity; it's realizing that we were never separate from it in the first place.

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.

Where did I Leave My Enlightenment? - 3/19/17

We don't have to live any single way. What constrains us the most is not our circumstances, but our own minds and the ways that we view the world. 

Introduction and sound engineering by Tom Eunsahn Gartland.

Dance on the Lines - 3/26/17

In Buddhism, everything is sacred. If we treat the smallest organisms with respect and compassion, imagine how we could treat our fellow humans.

Even the Worms

Every being and blade of grass is sacred. All deserve our kindness and respect, even those we view as unpleasant.

Treat Every Being Like a Buddha

Probably the most staggering teaching in Buddhism is that we are already Buddha.

The Buddha Is Your Birthright

Do as little harm as possible; that is the way of the Buddhas.

The Harmless Way

The good news is that everything is impermanent, changing; every moment is brand new. This means that we are ultimately free. However, if we expect certainty and fixedness from life, then impermanence is also bad news. Buddhism teaches us how to stop clinging and accept things just as they are--free from both bad and good.

The Good News and the Bad News

True Zen practice does not expect anything in return. It is not a means to an ends, but the ends itself.

For the Sake Of - 6/18/17

Zen may begin on the meditation cushion; however, true practice should extend into every aspect of our lives, not just the seated position.

Whether Sitting, Standing, or Lying Down - 6/25/17

Andre is a Zen monk in the Five Mountain Zen Order. He teaches Zen Buddhism at the Original Mind Zen Sangha in Chesterfield, NJ . In July of 2016, Andre received Dharma Transmission and the Zen name, Taesan, from his teacher Zen Master Wonji Dharma.

If you enjoy Andre's talks, please share them with your friends. Thanks for visiting.

Original Mind Zen Sangha

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