The dharma realm in the ten directions arises from the single mind. When the single mind is still, all appearances are entirely exhausted, Which one is over there? Which one is myself?

 —Hongzhi  Cultivating the Empty Field Practice instruction

Perhaps the greatest wonder of all is that we have the ability to wonder, to reflect, and to have this capacity as a natural by-product of being alive which is simply amazing! Then, the question- how to nurture doubt and inquiry in our favor?

To say “I wonder” can mean many things. We call something “a wonder” when it is an astonishing thing or accomplishment, a miraculous event like the birth of a baby, or when we are uncertain and having doubts. It’s also “the emotion excited by the perception of something novel, unexpected, or inexplicable, sometimes mingled with perplexity or bewildered curiosity.”

 “Wonder” is the state of mind in which these emotions are held. When we observe something wonder-full and marvelous, we are filled with wonder, infused with awe. How can this state of mind help us navigate our everyday lives in the face of impermanence? Can this state of mind penetrate all appearances in our life, unconditionally? How might awe be a saving grace?

Supported by zazen and the monastery schedule, we will work with traditional and experimental processes through drawing, movements of our body, words, splashes of color, and raw pigments tenderly culled from the earth. By disappearing into wondering “what!” wondering “if!,  we can explore the ten thousand things directly by experiencing how wonder is verified and fulfilled.

All are welcome come and throw open this Gate of Art Practice.

As with all in-person retreats at the Monastery, participants are required to follow the current COVID protocol for keeping everyone safe (this link is updated frequently so check back). Review the current protocol requirements before registering, and if you have further questions, please contact the registrar.

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