The sangha warmly welcomed Roshi back from his trip to Israel. He described his journey and reassured the group of his safety, even though there is an ongoing war in the Gaza Strip. The trip proved timely, offering him the chance to encounter different cultures and perspectives, including those of Muslims, Christians, and Jews.…

Roshi began his talk with what he jokingly called the “Worst Zen Poem Ever.” It goes something like this: In spring, the cherry blossoms,In summer, the cuckoo’s song,In autumn, the moon shining,In winter, the frozen snow:How pure and clear are the seasons! At first glance, there’s nothing remarkable or mysterious about this poem. Roshi…