Winter Practice Period 2024: Sesshin Day 1 Dharma Talk With Noah Kodo Roen, Matthew Kozan Palevsky, Wendy Johnson, & Joan Halifax

The teachers of this practice period each share their personal stories of finding Zen practice. Sensei Kodo shares his path to Zen practice, which began from a deep curiosity about consciousness and what constitutes the human mind. His journey led him to Upaya and an exploration of the Zen practice of “nothing extra.” Sensei Kozan found Zen when he began searching for meaning beyond conventional life achievements. After various explorations to different practices a friend’s tragic death brought him to the doorstep of Zen practice which offered a profound sense of stillness and presence. Sensei Wendy Johnson introduces herself by highlighting her background, which is deeply rooted in political activism and a complex family history. She shares her spiritual journey that led her from political activism to Zen Buddhism, influenced by significant encounters with Zen and Tibetan Buddhism. Wendy emphasizes the importance of engaged practice, blending activism with Zen principles, and reflects on her gratitude for her years of practice amidst the challenges of contemporary times. Roshi Joan Halifax humorously comments on the often grim portrayal of Zen masters and shares her personal journey from a state of moral outrage to finding peace and practice in Zen Buddhism. Influenced by encounters with Thich Nhat Hanh, Roshi’s narrative underscores the transformation from intense anger to a practice characterized by ease, joy, and a profound engagement with the world.