On the journey to resolve the “Great Matter of Birth and Death,” the contemplative writings of masters who’ve embarked on that quest before us may provide precious inspirations and pivotal insights when the timing is right and the conditions are met.

I appreciate the Daily Zen Journal for the careful selection of exhortations by ancient and contemporary Zen masters from various traditions. These teachings are always presented in a way that preserves the heart of these delicate texts, and allows readers to connect to the realizations of these masters directly across time and space.

The framing and additional comments in the personal reflections at the end of each month’s journal are very helpful. They illustrate how to work with these teachings, how to integrate them into everyday practice, and they serve as a reminder that these masters were first and foremost ordinary people and sincere practitioners, just like the many visitors of Daily Zen.

Over the years a wonderful collection of teachings, truly a treasure chest of Zen lore, has faithfully appeared each month. Now they all are still available in the Daily Zen library.

I hope that Daily Zen will continue to provide a gateway for many to discover and unlock the mystery at the heart of Zen – Mind and its wondrous compassionate workings – just as it has done for me on numerous occasions.

Amituofo!

With Gratitude,

Mick S.