Question
I practice zazen alone at home because it is difficult for me to get to the dojo. I go about
once a week.
Sometimes I feel a little adrift because I practice martial arts, and my
master disapproves of my getting involved with the sangha. He says I cannot have two
masters at once and that I should make up my mind.
Yet I see no contradiction.
What should I do?
GABRIELA.
gabriela
Answer from Master Kosen
I think martial arts are one thing and Zen is another, because Zen is a purely spiritual Way. The good advice of a Zen master does not conflict with the advice of a good martial arts master. He is afraid of losing you, which means he cares about you. So you can speak to him with confidence, and if he is a good master, he will understand your reasons for practicing the Zen Way.
Kosen