Portrait of Jokai Blackwell

Living Zen is a project of Tenryu Jokai Blackwell offering regular dharma talks via podcast, writings and news of upcoming events.

Dharma Talk Podcasts

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Upcoming Events

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  • Great Faith, Great Doubt, and Great Determination

    9:30 am - 12:00 pm, Saturday October 12, 2024
    Online - Presented by Long Beach Meditation

    This online morning retreat will focus on three essential qualities for Zen Buddhist practice: great faith, great doubt, and great determination. It includes time for meditation, two dharma talks, and group discussion.

    The path of realization in Zen Buddhism is informed by three essential pillars: Great Faith, Great Doubt, and Great Determination.

    Great Faith derives from the experiential truth that all beings are intrinsically awake. This faith is deep and resolute, providing a foundation for our continued practice through changing conditions.

    Great Doubt is not about intellectual skepticism; rather, it concerns a profound, immersive inquiry into self-nature and life itself. This single-pointed inquiry transforms one’s entire being, opening and deepening awareness and understanding.

    Great Determination is the unwavering resolve to pursue realization, motivated by faith in our awakened nature. This determination dissolves all obstacles and illuminates all perceived barriers. The path is the goal.

    Together, these three pillars create a powerful synergy. When deep faith, boundless practice, and unyielding determination coalesce, the realization of enlightenment is made manifest—one’s original nature is revealed!

    Schedule

    9:30AM – Welcome and Introductions
    9:35AM – Meditation with Guidance
    10:00AM – The Three Essentials – Dharma Talk with Q&A
    10:45AM – Zen Meditation
    11:10AM – Stretch break
    11:15AM – The Three Essentials Continued – Dharma Talk with Q&A
    12:00PM – Metta Chant and Closing

    Cost

    The class is being offered for $35. For LBM Sustaining Members, we are offering the class at a discounted rate of $25.

    If you cannot afford the full fee, choose “Reduced Fee” on the registration form below and please let us know in the comments field what you can afford. Volunteers at our events are always appreciated.

    If you can contribute additional funds, your contributions help keep our services available, compensate teachers and staff, and make classes available for those who cannot afford them.

    How to Join the Retreat

    Please see Long Beach Meditation’s event page to register.

  • LBM Sunday Dharma

    3:00 pm - 4:30 pm, Sunday November 3, 2024
    Online or In-Person! Presented by Long Beach Meditation

    On Sunday afternoons Long Beach Meditation offers meditation practice and a Dharma Talk by one of our established Teachers and on special occasions invited guests. This class invites participants to find support, guidance, and the energy to do the challenging work of awakening. After a welcoming introduction, the bell is rung to begin our 30-minute meditation. There is a short break to stretch our legs, use the restroom, have a cup of tea, and chat with others. Returning to our seats, the remaining time allows for a Dharma Talk followed by discussion and questions and answers. We concluded with a brief metta chant for those who would like to join:

    May all beings be happy and safe from harm.
    May all beings be healthy in body and in mind.
    May all beings be peaceful and free from suffering.

    This class is suitable for all levels of experience and is held both in person and online. All are welcome and no one is turned away for lack of funds.

    Suggested Donation $15

    • Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/9014566014
    • Password: 042020
    • Meeting ID: 901 456 6014
    • Dial in on your phone (Voice only) +1 669 900 9128
    • One tap mobile +16699009128,,9014566014#

    FOR MORE INFO ABOUT LBM PROGRAMS, CLICK HERE.

  • ICD Tuesday Night – Meditation as Refuge

    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm, Tuesday November 12, 2024
    Online - Presented by Insight Community of the Desert

    Meditation as Refuge extends a weekly invitation to everyone who would like to explore meditation as a support for their spiritual development. The intention is to focus on realizing our innate capacity for care, compassion and mutual respect. This event welcomes everyone, beginning meditators and experienced practitioners alike.

    Cost: Donation basis, there is no charge to participate. ICD center and teachers are supported by your generosity. Please give from your ability and heart.

    To join via Zoom click here.