My closest affiliation is with Zen. There’s a simplicity and lack of distraction that I find useful. I used to think of Tibetan – vajrayana – Buddhism as too complicated. I’m the sort of person who wants to know everything about a given subject, and I realized that would be impossible with Tibetan Buddhism. While there’s a lot one can study “about” Zen, there doesn’t seem to be as much to “understand.” Once I began to study Tibetan Buddhism, however, I realized it’s the same way! Many paths to the same point – or many rafts to the other shore.
Where do I Fit?
Posted on by Myodo
Author: Myodo
Ven. Dr. Myodo Jabo (Sandy Gougis) is a Zen Master and Priest in the Five Mountain Zen Order. She began studying Theravâdin Buddhism in 1998, adding Zen in 2003, and Vajrayana Buddhism in 2008. She currently practices in both the Zen and Tibetan traditions. Her Zen teacher is Most Ven. Wonji Dharma of the Five Mountain Zen Order, and her Tibetan guru is Lama Tsultrim Allione of Tara Mandala. In her free time, Myodo enjoys painting, jewelry making, and other creative endeavors. View All Posts
I think Zen can be contrasted with the modern culture of presumption. You might enjoy the short Zen tale I just posted at http://deligentia.wordpress.com/2009/11/10/empty-your-cup/
I’ve heard that tale before, but not with the Western slant. I like that interpretation quite it bit. It’s very relevant.