Zen Existentialism

If I am a Monster 

I shall be one with Grace

a fearless Innocent

the face of he who knows Nothing

an Enigma, perhaps...

To Be Zen

Zen will not be explained by words.

It resides in another dimension.

It is not really understood.

But it may lead you to the way it is known.

It is not a religion -- not a belief -- not even a philosophy.

But it may be lived by a choice of Will.

It may be a compliment to Existentialism.

It works like a sort of Behavioural Jazz.

First: you must slow down.  Mantra: "osoi..."

not only physically, but mentally -- avoiding urgency.

Begin to 'pay attention' to all that goes on in your environment --

with all of your senses 

including: intuition - intelligence - imagination.

Recognise what may be changed -- and what may not.

Avoid argumentation -- and proceed with humility

by providing an example.  Be gracious.

Acknowledge your mistakes and failures --

and seek not the praise of others.

Permit yourself happiness -- and a sense of humour.

Be not seduced by opinions (especially your own).

Learn to love solitude and abstinence --

and the companionship of animals.

Become the best you that you can imagine.

Trust silence.

Zen -- is your secret magic

Zen is more than a mysterious secret

of ancient Oriental mysticism.

It is of contemporary interest worldwide.

Can you imagine zen without knowing

or really understanding

what it is supposed to be ?

It need not be learned --

we are zen already

if we let go of things we cling to --

we may be left alone with ourselves

in a zen state --

in the clearest reflection

of our being.

Zen gives us permission

to simply exist.

Yes, a form of existentialism --

contemporary and universal

and, like good secrets, intrinsic.

Zen -- is your secret magic.