Dear NCZC Sangha,
I wanted to write a short note in between packing boxes and tying up the myriad details here in Rochester, NY to express my gratitude for the opportunity to serve as the North Carolina Zen Center abbot and teacher.
I know that the last few years have been a time of reflection and change for the community. As the Zen Center moves into this new phase, I look forward to exploring the Three Treasures-Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha, together with you.
I think that everyone would agree that we are living in crucial times. 2500 years ago, the Buddha reminded the Sangha that the “All” is burning, burning with greed, hatred, and delusion. This is all too evident now. Is this pessimistic? I don’t think so. Rather, it is a call to wake-up.
We don’t merely practice for ourselves. We practice for all beings. I personally invite all of you to deepen your practice with the NCZC Sangha. Let’s wake-up together.
I will be joining the NCZC on August 1st and what better way to start than to dive into a sesshin which starts on August 3rd. Please consider joining us!
With Deep Bows,
Rev. Teshin Sweger
June 27th, 2017