12/08/2009

Doen in town and he discussed the "I" exercise of last week.
Remember "I" generally fear based and can hijack you.  See it for what it is and how it can run the show.
Become conscious
When a breakthrough occurs and you explore new undiscovered areas be alert for the fear "I" and the mechanical conditioned responses.
 
Zen practice and 4th Way will help you discover the non existence of I.
Lost Coin monks will hold the old traditions and connect to modern teaching and modern versions of these practices.
 
Doen spoke of his anger at his ancestors who were killed in concentration camps during WW II.  Judaism focused on the intellect and study but what good was that study if they were unable to stand up to people with guns.  There is also a need to act.
Work with tradition of being conscious and action.  As practitioner, what will really change your life as opposed to just dreaming about change.  An aware I will not stop us from "raising the bar".  Sitting practice allows us to see belief as simply thought.  Other practices will support and put into action.
 
Producing a breakthrough and producing results from the perspective a stock broker.  This involves risk and action in the moment.
Have spirit and courage to go for broke-this will be different for each of us.
Clint Eastwood ( a meditation practitioner) produced his first film at 62.
Stretch self, acknowledge responsibility for bad decision/action.  With new behavior other people will respond to us differently
 
THE DOG THAT BITES YOU IS YOU.
 
Practice because I can be more than I am.
 
Group had further discussion on "I"s that came up last week including re-framing lazy, acknowledging inability to change another person/relative and to be conscious of that and be scientific about what works when relating to people who push your buttons.  Choose conscious behavior.
The I of being in the moment can be distracted by chatter and activity.  Surrender to the moment without trying to control.  Focus on task in front of you and see it as is and not as a reference point for ones own existence.
First guardian of the gate is fear.
 
Doen discussed a one day retreat in January in Utah and a meeting of adepts in SF in July.