top of page

Joshu asked a monk who appeared for the first time in the hall,
“Have I ever seen you here before?”
The monk answered, “No sir, you have not.”

“Then have a cup of tea,” said Joshu.

He turned to another monk. “Have I ever seen you here before?”

“Yes sir, of course you have,” said the second monk.

“Then have a cup of tea,” said Joshu.

Later, the managing monk of the monastery asked Joshu,

“How is it that you make the same offer of tea whatever the reply to your question?”

At this Joshu shouted, “Manager, are you still here?”

“Of course, master!” the manager answered.

“Then have a cup of tea,” said Joshu.


The idea of the valorization of everyday life was explained in Marea Eliade's The Sacred and Profane: The Nature of Religion. He discovered in cultures throughout time and location the function of rites, rituals and attitudes in adding value to individual lives by encouraging the perception of the sacred in even the most mundane activities: such the conscious, careful and appreciative drinking of tea.


Joshu (Chinese: Chao-chou) was a Chinese Zen (Chan) Master (778-897) known for his paradoxical statements and strange behavior.



Daily life seems to be an obstacle to spiritual growth, but this is only true if one does not know how to use it.' Many people today are looking for new ways to escape the increasing suppression of their essential being by the modern way of life. The general interest in yoga and Zen Buddhism is evidence of a new awareness of the need for spiritual well-being. The way of transformation will help all genuine seekers, regardless of their creed or religion, and will open new doors to the freedom of transcendental reality which lies within our worldly existence. (back cover of book.)


How to Read: The 95% Bullsh*t Rule (content coming)


Zen

A First Zen Reader, Trevor Leggett

Three Pillars of Zen, Philip Kapleau

Zen Mind, Beginners Mind, Senryu Suzuki

Zen Flesh, Zen Bones, Paul Reps

Embrace Tiger, Return to Mountain, Al Huang

Thirteen Chapters on Tai Chi Ch'uan, Cheng Man-ching

There Are No Secrets, Wolfe Lowenthal

Reflections on Qi, Gary Khor


Drumming

Planet Drum, Mickey Hart

Drums of Passion, Album, Olatunji


Top Percussion, Album, Tito Puente


bottom of page