Winter Council and Potluck
We concluded our year with Winter Council and a potluck. The Council, a powerful practice adapted from Native American traditions, involves sitting in a circle and passing a "talking piece." There are guidelines that allow only one person to speak at a time, ideally unscripted and from the heart, while everyone else listens deeply with their hearts. This practice nurtures the skill of listening, which we cultivate with grace, and provides a profound opportunity to explore and express the core of our feelings and stories. While we avoid getting caught up in the narratives the mind creates during meditation, here we are encouraged to discover, in the spontaneity of the moment, what truly resides within us emotionally and spiritually.
Though all that is shared in the Council is confidential, we can share that this one was particularly rich. We had a full circle of thirteen participants, with two long-time friends joining via Zoom—one from the snowy winter of Canada and another from Japan. We were also joined by an inspiring couple fresh from a sesshin at Upaya, where they had been with Shinzan. The reunion was filled with joy, as two of our regulars, recently returned from the same sesshin, embraced each other in surprise and delight. The evening's energy was charged with trust and commitment, building courageous and intimate sharing that felt both healing and transformative. Afterward, we enjoyed a delicious meal, accompanied by lively conversation and waves of joy. It was a true celebration of our community, a gathering of wonderful individuals united as one.
Among the themes that arose were abundant expressions of gratitude for one another and the many accomplishments of a fruitful year. We welcomed new members who contributed greatly, and established members continued to grow together, with the sangha flourishing beautifully. Special events included a full sesshin, a pair of enhanced practice periods, and a talented visiting co-facilitator, Shoryu, from Upaya. We celebrated a Jukai ceremony for four new "Buddhas" — Fuzan, Daico, Seido, and Seiju, which included Spanish translations. We also participated in a significant and heartfelt Shuso ceremony, where we collectively honored Dojin's recognition as Head Student. There is deep respect and gratitude within our community, a true refuge amidst the challenges of the world. Our sangha is special—built with earnest devotion, reliable commitment, and a strong sense of resilience. We now have a solid organizational foundation and plans for the future.
Walking into the zendo, it's clear there is something extraordinary about this group, this Dharma family. Several of us have commented on this feeling—an unspoken but palpable presence. You are welcomed silently and immediately sense that you are entering a calm, serious, and comforting sanctuary—a true "refuge" in every sense of the word. The special nature of this sangha is something we all feel deeply.
Shinzan exemplifies unadorned wisdom, respect, and quiet selflessness. Ed Shoryu, who has worked closely with Shinzan at Upaya for years, shared how deeply loved and admired Shinzan is within the community there. He remarked that we may not fully realize how fortunate we are to have him. We assured him that we absolutely appreciate the incredible gift that Shinzan is to us.
Together, we embody hope and joy in its fullest expression.
- Blair Mushin Whitcomb
