In this episode I have the joy of reviewing a book by one of my teachers, Kyogen Carlson. You Are Still Here was published in 2021 and is edited by Sallie Jiko Tisdale. This book is a treasure in that it collects in one place the essential subjects and themes of Kyogen’s teaching, which remains faithful to his Soto Zen lineage through Roshi Jiyu Kennett but reflects Kyogen’s ability to express the Dharma in a down-to-earth, inviting, but nonetheless challenging way. Kyogen never dumbed things down for you, but he employed all of his creativity in trying to explain things, and managed to convey a deep faith that you, too, could understand.
Most striking when considering this book is how the Dharma of my lineage involves a holistic practice. As I page through and read the chapter titles – Precepts, Zazen, Sangha, Vow, Way-Seeking Mind, Faith, Doubt, Kensho – I keep thinking, “Yes! That part is absolutely essential to practice!” Many contemporary Zen books distill the Dharma down to what might be of interest to people only casually interested in Zen, sticking to topics directly relevant to anyone, such as foundational Zen teachings, mediation, mindfulness, or applying practice to your everyday life.
You Are Still Here, in contrast, is a handbook for Zen practitioners who want to explore all aspects of the practice and allow it to permeate every moment of their lives. There is much more to Zen then meditation and teachings about dukkha and emptiness!
You Are Still Here by Kyogen Carlson
I’m on sabbatical for the month of July, taking a break from writing in order read, reflect, catch up on stuff I never have time for, and even relax a little. Instead of full-length episodes, in July I’m releasing brief reviews of three of my favorite Zen books (click here for the previous review, of Issho Fujita’s “Polishing a Tile”).
