|
Ekyo's Blog Sharing form the heart
|
|
Dharma Friend |
|
September 8, 2007 Today my old friend, Somyo-san called me from Japan. We met here in Rochester, but some years ago she went to Bukkokuji and was ordained by Tangen Roshi. We talk a few times a year to catch up. In the end of August they were celebrating 83 Birthday of Tangen Roshi. It was good to hear that Roshi sama is in good health. Summer season was very humid and hot this year so everyone felt a bit tired there… Several Polish people attend sesshin in Bukkokuji regularly, and there is one Polish monk in residence. I want to write about him. I never knew Zbyszek in Poland but he arrived to Rochester Zen Center several years ago. Since his English was not so good, I remember helping him with arranging some matters here. He was very devoted Zen student and had deep need for serious practice. After one year passed he had to go back to Poland, but came a second time later… This time he often talked about wanting to go to Japan... and weather I would help him to arrange this. Of course, I had many old friends in Poland who could take him along to Japan. Bukkokuji is not the easiest place to be, especially for Westerners and I was worrying how long he would survive there. Zbyszek is not only there till now, he is blooming… He was ordained as a Zen monk, named Genpo and is working in kitchen. I am very impressed and inspired by him. I am waiting for the time when I could go to Japan and visit him there. Recently Scott, a resident from RZC, visited Bukkokuji and shared with me the most recent photo of Genpo. It was taken during memorial service for Harada Sogaku Roshi. While I was in Japan several years ago, I remember this ceremony. Each month on the 12th, Bukkokuji residents walk in line on narrow path next to rice field and climb a small hill in front of Hosshin-ji. Harada Roshi’s grave is near his old hut. Here is Genpo /Zbyszek/ making offerings during chanting service.
There is indeed only one zendo…
|
|
© 2009 Ekyo's Blog |
