Wednesday, April 8, 2020

Although Jikoji is closed, its small and now cloistered resident staff is continuing its practices and programs for the benefit of all. Our Buddhist practice is appropriate in social crisis such as Covid-19 particularly through its emphasis on mindfully taking care of oneself and others.

Any statement on this crisis should be prefaced by the facts; see for example Worldometer for updated Covid-19 statistics by country, and also Context, continuously updated world population, economies, societies, environment, food, energy, and health. The worldwide Context as yet dwarfs the Covid-19 disease, but sadly perhaps not for long, since as yet only developed countries have been severely impacted. Densely populated underdeveloped cultures, and particularly refugees, may be defenseless. Worldwide recovery may be months or years away.

Local news and media is dominated by the crisis and its impacts, honoring the afflicted as well as frequently low-paid but essential workers in health care and related social and business services. Most of us just “shelter in place," getting out periodically while maintaining masked social distancing. I sometimes argue that our practice is just, as in just sitting upright, where upright includes morality as expressed in the precepts, sitting emphasizes the physical practice of zazen, and just limits us to be fair and dedicated in This, this present in all its ramifications, responsibilities and complexities. Nevertheless media and news really get under our skin. We can limit negative influences through meditation and mindfulness practices, such as Buddhism's four boundless immeasurables: love, compassion, joy sharing, and equanimity.

My routine and practice, although disrupted by after-affects from a recent accident and more recently by Covid-19, still include daily sittings in Jakkoan Zendo and occasional participation in online dharma offerings.

Sincerely bowing to our service and goods providers, and to all

Toku Ho Cliff Isberg