“What can you do about the world?” This phrase comes from a dialogue in the Book of Serenity (Case 12). In response the teacher asks: “What do you call the world?” In my copy of the text I wrote: “There is nothing it does not include.” In our practice circle this evening we will offer each person the opportunity to answer these questions in the light of each one’s awareness, practice, ethical concerns and sense of priority.

Rev. So’on Jim Hare serves as Tanto, or head of practice. He lived in the San Francisco Zen Center community from 1980 to 1984 and was lay ordained by Tenshin Reb Anderson in 1985. He served as Head Student at Green Gulch Farm during the spring 2002 practice period, and was priest ordained by Rev. Myo Lahey in 2016.

Our Monday night programs begin with zazen (sitting meditation) followed by a devotional service and dharma talk, group discussion, practice circle or retreat night. There are no membership requirements to participate. We invite donations to support the room rental, visits by teachers, and other sangha activities. Valley Streams Zen Sangha is dedicated to the study of Buddha’s teaching and the practice of meditation. We invite newcomers and experienced Zen students to join us.