Category: Dharma Journal

Wildness

I am astonished to see a sharp-shinned hawk alight in our back yard. I assume the raptor dropped its prey from the juniper above and desires to retrieve it. As I gently move toward...

Sky-Blue Pink

Clouds are trying to swallow the dawn this morning. A storm is rolling in just as the sun makes its appearance. A few rays of light scatter into the condensing water vapor that is...

When Nothing Moves

My root teacher in the Buddhist tradition frequently said, “When you notice the mind naturally settling, just continue in that.” This was his distilled guidance concerning meditative practice. He seemed to embody this, remaining...

The Dharma of End Times

Many world religions have prophecies about an apocalyptic end to our existence, and those who believe a certain way will be miraculously saved. I wrote a paper on the eschatology of Jesus’ message during...

Arrogance and Asteroids

Many years ago I attended a seminar presented by John Dobson, the “sidewalk astronomer.” He was offering his unique wit and wisdom regarding the cosmos from an observatory on top of Pine Mountain east...

Digging into Samsara

I find working in the garden a good way to direct my energy. It seems good for the planet and definitely brings joy to me and Tarn—as well as the neighborhood. It is not...

Sacred Random

Quaking Aspen leaves flutter and sparkle like little gold coins in the sunlight. A babbling brook speaks its truth through undulating rivulets, never saying the same thing twice. As a campfire dies, embers pulsate...

Thought and Light

In my night time dream I am engaged in a discussion about thought. A man appears who wrote a book on the topic, and he seems to conclude thought is something that can be...

Qualities of Mercy

I am breathing the lovely moist air from a rare rain shower. It has been so incredibly dry, I feel like doing a Snoopy dance. My dance in the rain is accomplishing some tree...

Honing Our Skill

I have fond memories of working alongside my grandfather as he fired up his forge and made something out of iron. He was a farmer, which means he had to be a jack of...