About Us

Glenn and David

Glenn and David at the Possum Creek Zendo

(see disclaimer below)

We are a group of lay meditators. The group was stated in the 1980s by Ken Rosen. When you arrive at the zendo for the first time, just ask for Ken and he will show you around and explain the simple routines that are followed. For example, we take off our shoes before entering the building and there is no assigned seating except for the monitor's and timer's places which are marked with bells and wooden clappers. We sit facing a wall (not a garden; that's a glam shot). You can bring your favorite cushions from home if you want to but you don't need to bring anything; the zendo is fully equipped with cushions, benches, and chairs. Use the cushion, bench, or chair of your choice.

We start on time, promptly at 8:00 AM on Sunday morning. You will hear the playing of the Han, a wooden percussion instrument; the Han signals that it is time to find a place to sit. Next comes three rings of a small bell, during which time you are getting comfortable. After the third ring, we try to hold our posture without moving for the next 35 minutes. There is no penalty for moving; just do your best. Zen masters say: When the body is moving, the mind is moving.

After 35 minutes, the small bell rings again and everyone stands up and faces outwardly, away from the wall, on the floor in front of the cushion, bench, or mat. Another ring of the bell and we perform a simple bow to one another. Another ring of the bell and we begin a clockwise walk around the zendo; just turn to the left and follow the person in front of you. We walk in single file for five or six minutes, after which the bell rings again. Continue walking until you get back to your place and face outward. When everyone has arrived at their place, the bell rings again and everyone is seated. The cycle then repeats itself. We sit for three rounds of 35 minutes each.

The third round may sometimes be replaced in whole or in part with a live or recorded dharma talk, or by a chanting session.

We recommend that you attend a number of Sunday sittings before attending an intensive meditation retreat (sesshin).

Please explore this website by clicking on the buttons in the menu. If you have any questions or comments, just click on the Contact Us button. We look forward to seeing you at the Zen center.