Mormon Zen?
(post imported from old blog at mormonzen.com)
Mormon Zen? What the crap is that?
For me, Mormon Zen is how I define the method in which I try to live in my life, which ultimately is a mixture of the concepts and practices on Zen living, with my predominately Mormon beliefs. I may have my own issues with the LDS church, which I will touch on later, but I want to find a way for everything to live in harmony, and to achieve the balance in my life that I know is possible. That’s the real quick and dirty idea behind this site.
It started years ago for me when I was introduced to a book by my buddy Bridger, titled “The Complete Idiots Guide to Zen Living“. I’ve had it for nearly 5 years now and sadly have never made it more than halfway through it. I’ve decided to commit to finishing it, and not just pickup where I left off as so much time has passed. I know that could benefit from the review. There is just so much great information, and a lot take in. What I love though is that even though it seems like there is so much to understand, it’s also very simple at it’s core, and that’s one of the many things I find fascinating. I find myself very drawn to Eastern religions and the way the practitioners live their lives as I study and research. It just seems to be such a fulfilling way to go through life. To focus on the moment and everything around you in all it’s beauty.
The one concept that has really hit home for me, so far, is that everything I want to be, I already am. Within me, I have everything I need, but I have so many attachments to desires, disappointments, etc, that I don’t see or recognize the power that lies within.
We’ll go more into all that later.
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i’m interested to see how this journey progresses, for you. i enjoy the Toaist half of zen more than the buddhist half. i predict your practice and study will be unique and insightful. FWIW, here are two ideas, from my own experiences of melding mormon theology and various (including eastern) meditation philosophies: some attachments are ok, and normal, and healthy, and human. like the love of family and the need for satisfying work. i think you’re wise to let go of a cumbersome attachments to the past, but some desires are good and some attachments and needs are quite healthy. also, you don’t have to completely empty your mind, to meditate, just notice and be very accepting of yourself and of your thinking and just watch the thoughts that do appear on your mind radar. ok. that’s quite enough unsolicited advice. good luck.
My start with zen began years ago when I was lost in Oakland, on my way to the temple with a van load full of kids. Getting lost in Oakland is not a good idea, especially with a van full of kids! I was trying not to freak and as I pulled a u-turn back onto the freeway, I saw a mini-van (odd-site in itself in Oakland) with a bumper sticker that said, “Don’t believe everything you think”. To me, it seemed to be in neon and that one phrase seered itself into my brain. Since then, after questioning my attachments and the ways I define my ego, I am finding myself both limitless and sooooooo happy. It’s a wonderful path to be on, I find it very free of fear.
Check out http://www.theidproject.com for up-to-date ways to live Buddhist philosophies in daily life. It’s been helpful to me.
I recommed the Zen Teachings of Jesus. (Blends very well with Mormonism. IMO.)
I would agree with you Scott (great name, btw). If you really look at the teachings of Christ, he lived and taught a very Zen lifestyle. His focus was always on the present. How very Zen. I dig it.
I’ll have to get a copy of the book for sure.