Question
I have only recently begun practicing zazen. At first it was a source of joy for me; I thought my life had changed, that everything was becoming positive, and so on…
Unfortunately, over the past few days my illusions have returned, my self has resurfaced, and my anxieties have come back.
I am still confident, because I have purified an important part of my karma.
But I would not want to confuse zazen with therapy. In fact, I am not looking for any particular help in zazen; I prefer to let things happen as they should.
Am I wrong (or crazy) to think I should expect nothing from zazen? In that case, someone would be entitled to ask why I do zazen.
What do you think?
Didier
Answer from Master Kosen
The attitude of expecting nothing is very positive, because it allows you to look at your practice over the long term without being stopped by the slightest doubt.
And to discover benefits later on that you did not expect.
Kosen