Blog Feed: A Buddhist view on Activism

fires of war smolder in dad’s BBQ sauce- lost summer Tagged: Haiku, Memorial Day, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Veteran, writing > read more

Farmers Market

Published on 2012-05-24 15:14:32

colors of spring surround me- farmers market Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, Haiku, health, Mental Health, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, writing > read more

Your smile

Published on 2012-05-23 20:21:08

your smile warms my heart- eternal summer Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, Haiku, health, Mental Health, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, writing > read more

Passing of Haikuist Hortensia Anderson

Published on 2012-05-22 10:05:12

Today Hortensia Anderson a well known and loved Haikuist and poet passed away. Below is one of my favorite poems and a fitting tribute. Remains hortensia anderson The remains of the rose you gave me lie in dust in your love letters. How did it begin? With a single, perfect rose. Had she been dead [...] > read more

Good Morning?

Published on 2012-05-22 09:03:40

smiling faces of school children- overcast skies Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, Haiku, health, Mental Health, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, writing > read more

Pleasant afternoon

Published on 2012-05-21 17:02:18

first sunset on my new patio- robin looks for dinner Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, Haiku, health, Mental Health, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, writing > read more

Summer heat

Published on 2012-05-20 14:23:09

serious moonlight shines upon her face- summer heat Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, Haiku, health, Mental Health, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, writing > read more

NATO Birds of War

Published on 2012-05-19 09:30:54

birds of war hover overhead- cloudless sky Here in Chicago the weekend is a huge mess due to NATO meeting here. First off I understand the need for them to meet AND I also understand the need to protest but why not hold the meeting in the winter when no one wants to go outside. [...] > read more

NATO winds blowing

Published on 2012-05-18 23:00:50

political pigeons causing a ruckus- chicago spring Tagged: Chicago, Haiku, NATO, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu > read more

Death of yesterday

Published on 2012-05-17 08:00:17

today is the death of yesterday- morning glories Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, Haiku, health, Mental Health, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, writing > read more

New beginnings

Published on 2012-05-16 22:30:21

taking one step at a time… brain trauma Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, Haiku, health, Mental Health, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, writing > read more

discarded rose

Published on 2012-05-15 10:41:16

single rose on the pavement- crossroads Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, health, Mental Health, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, spring, sun, travel, writing > read more

New moon

Published on 2012-05-14 22:53:39

the moon waxes and wanes- samsara Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, health, Mental Health, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, spring, sun, travel, writing > read more

Happy Mothers Day

Published on 2012-05-13 19:34:36

every breath is a gift- spring morning Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, health, Mental Health, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, spring, sun, travel, writing > read more

Buddha smiles

Published on 2012-05-13 19:15:15

children plant flowers in temple garden- Buddha smiles Today the dharma school children planted in the garden. It was a joy to watch them interact with the Earth. Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, health, Mental Health, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, spring, sun, travel, Veterans, writing > read more

Lang Lang at Lyric Opera

Published on 2012-05-12 23:12:26

Tonight my daughter and I went to see Lang Lang at Lyric Opera. As I sat there listening to him play I found myself meditating. Not realizing what had happened I just went with it. What better place? Here I was in a peaceful and loving environment (my daughters presence) AND I was enveloped by [...] > read more

Mindfulness is not thinking, by Trevor Leggett

Published on 2012-05-12 22:54:52

Reblogged from Buddhism now: Mindfulness is not thinking, this is one of the reasons it is so powerful. It is a common view that mindfulness is thinking — Now I’m walking. Now I’m talking. Now I’m not walking or talking, but just standing. Now I’m sitting down... It is just like a running BBC commentary. [...] > read more

sleepless night

Published on 2012-05-12 10:16:47

artillery fire disturbs my slumber- monsoon season Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, health, Mental Health, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, spring, sun, travel, Veterans, writing > read more

excruciatingly real

Published on 2012-05-11 22:29:20

storms rips the tree out by its roots. wave after wave Today’s posting is quite a bit late but as I am still working on my 365 haiku a day challenge I pushed to get this one in. After a few weeks of relative pain free days I was hit with serious waves last night. [...] > read more

Name tags

Published on 2012-05-10 18:34:45

This week I have tried to do more Metta meditation and share loving compassion with all sentient beings. So in honor of this I am wearing this, virtual, name tag. I am grateful for so many things that I will not bore you all with a list. I just ask you to share in the [...] > read more

Shotgun wedding

Published on 2012-05-10 18:20:36

under the moon two lovers embrace.. shotgun wedding Tagged: animals, birds, Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, dog, Dogs, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, spring, thunderstorm, travel, weather, writing > read more

Tai Chi Relieves Fibromyalgia

Published on 2012-05-09 15:33:14

Reblogged from Calm Chicago's Blog: Check out the results fo this study published in the New England Journal of Medicine. This is new work, published in 2012 shows (again) that Yang tai chi and it’s soft gentle movements help people suffering terrible pain feel better. I am happy to say, this is the exact form I teach [...] > read more

Mental squall

Published on 2012-05-09 09:45:58

during the storm waves devour the rocks- mental squall While is NOT. A haiku I felt compelled to write it after a turbulent meditation where my mind had difficulty settling down. Tagged: animals, birds, Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, dog, Dogs, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, spring, thunderstorm, travel, weather, writing > read more

NaHaiWriMo May 8th prompt: orange

Published on 2012-05-08 16:41:40

Reblogged from noh where haiku: Haiku: prompt – orange old and weak celebrating armed forces day – agent orange A salute to those injuried by Agent Orange > read more

Haiku by Issa

Published on 2012-05-08 13:10:46

on honorable Buddha’s honorable nose an icicle mi-botoke no o-hana no saki e tsurara kana .御仏の御鼻の先へつらら哉 by Issa, 1814 On one hand, Issa makes fun of the Buddha sporting an undignified icicle dangling from the tip of his nose. Deeper, we sense his sympathy for the Buddha, who endures cold weather for mankind’s sake–recalling a [...] > read more

Story: the unpaintable

Published on 2012-05-08 09:45:23

Reblogged from about zen: ___ A zen student said: “I find no creativity in zen. It is always the same story, always the same thing, over and over. Where is the joy, the color, the creation?” The zen master replied: “Then maybe zen is not for you?” The student replied: “Maybe not.” Many moments passed [...] > read more

Morning rituals

Published on 2012-05-08 08:45:10

sunday service having a quick cup. morning rituals Tagged: animals, birds, Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, dog, Dogs, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, spring, thunderstorm, travel, weather, writing > read more

Big Bad Dog

Published on 2012-05-07 19:16:43

dogs cower under the sheets thunderstorm Tagged: animals, birds, Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, dog, Dogs, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, spring, thunderstorm, travel, weather, writing > read more

Silly Asses

Published on 2012-05-06 18:37:01

Many years ago I read this story by Isaac Asimov and it is even more relevant today. I hope you enjoy it. Naron of the long-lived Rigellian race was the fourth of his line to keep the galactic records. He had the large book which contained the list of the numerous races throughout the galaxies [...] > read more

Storm watch

Published on 2012-05-06 14:31:23

raven looks over the lake storm watch Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, Chicago, Children, death, dog, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

American Zen ver2

Published on 2012-05-05 20:04:10

american zen sipping coffee buddha in each sip. Tagged: Buddha, coffee, Haiku, Mindfulness, Poetry, postaday2011, Zen > read more

Lone Air Conditioner

Published on 2012-05-05 17:10:45

hot spring night three people share a bed- one AC Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, dog, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Story: instant karma

Published on 2012-05-04 20:01:37

Reblogged from about zen: ___ A zen student asked: “What is karma?” The master immediately slapped the student’s face. The student asked: “Hey! What was that for?” “You ask, you get hit.” the master explained. The student said: “You did not answer my question though…?” The master raised his hand, getting ready to hit again. [...] > read more

Spring Soup

Published on 2012-05-04 08:25:47

sudden storm cools the pavement- spring soup Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, dog, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Excuse me, you are on my nerve.

Published on 2012-05-03 09:00:38

turning the world upside down- optical nerve Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, dog, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Ohne Wörter (Flower Sermon Tanka)

Published on 2012-05-02 17:06:58

Reblogged from Ben Naga: OHNE WÖRTER (FLOWER SERMON TANKA) I picked a flower Twirled it between my fingers Sat waiting, smiling Till it divulged its secret But it just withered and died A good lesson on impermanence. > read more

Pressure under fire

Published on 2012-05-02 09:00:13

drop by drop the cup is filled- urinalysis Not my classiest piece but as we get older such tests become a fact of life. I remember one time in the Army I reported to base and we had the standard “drug” testing. Of course I had not studied (already gone AND had not drunk any [...] > read more

A gift to you

Published on 2012-05-02 08:04:58

Dear readers, I gratitude for your kind words, comments and, well, just reading my haiku I decided to move my site to fiercebuddhist.org. There will be no more ads on my pages to annoy and or tempt you. I am amazed to have 22k lifetime (1 year) and over 5k of views last month. Just [...] > read more

Boldly go!

Published on 2012-05-01 08:25:33

after the storm stars reflect in lake- boldly go… inward Many people think that meditation is a calm and peaceful thing to do. They are right, sort of. Meditation that explores the mind and seeks out the truths that lie beneath the surface is rather difficult and takes years or decades to accomplish. There are [...] > read more

Publication in Haiku News

Published on 2012-04-30 22:26:22

Today I received an email from the editors at Haiku News telling me that they had chosen one of my submissions for publication. Read the haiku by clicking here. For those of you unfamiliar with this journal here is what they have published on their website and I can hardly improve upon it. Haiku News [...] > read more

Publication in Haiku News

Published on 2012-04-30 22:26:22

Lost dog?

Published on 2012-04-30 09:00:07

happy dog visiting the temple- traveling Buddha Today while my daughter, Ava, and I were at temple a dog wandered up to us and sat down for a bit. Just quiet and gentle then he stood up and wandered off. This was a perfect example of non-attachment and I thank him for that lesson. Tagged: [...] > read more

Lost dog?

Published on 2012-04-30 09:00:07

Metamorphosis

Published on 2012-04-29 09:00:15

shoes piled by the temple door- discarded cocoons Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, spring, sun, travel, writing > read more

Metamorphosis

Published on 2012-04-29 09:00:15

Chicago Haiku Fest

Published on 2012-04-28 20:48:21

Today I had the wonderful opportunity to hear some great haiku read. The Haiku Society of America held a festival in celebration of National Poetry Month. The organizer Charlotte Digregorio did a fantastic job on organizing the event and the Skokie Library graciously allowed use of one of their conference rooms. The event kicked off [...] > read more

Chicago Haiku Fest

Published on 2012-04-28 20:48:21

Wistful thinking

Published on 2012-04-27 23:18:03

incense smoke brings back the dead- will-o-wisp Inspired by a Hangon-kon story which is as follows: (My interpretation) Many years ago during the Han dynasty the Chinese Emperor Wu lost his wife, Lady Li. The Emperor loved her so much that her death consumed him. No matter what he did he could not distract himself. [...] > read more

Wistful thinking

Published on 2012-04-27 23:18:03

Spiritual Materialism and Cherry Picking

Published on 2012-04-27 21:55:57

Reblogged from 40 Oz of Bad Karma: These days, it’s common to see someone spend tons of money on their new spiritual knick-knacks, or the self-help books from the “New Age section”, and “spiritual” lectures. People often pick and chose from many different traditions, leaving out anything they deem problematic or challenging. In essence, they [...] > read more

Spiritual Materialism and Cherry Picking

Published on 2012-04-27 21:55:57

Reblogged from 40 Oz of Bad Karma: These days, it’s common to see someone spend tons of money on their new spiritual knick-knacks, or the self-help books from the “New Age section”, and “spiritual” lectures. People often pick and choose from many different traditions, leaving out anything they deem problematic or challenging. In essence, they [...] > read more

All Guests Welcome

Published on 2012-04-27 19:54:49

Reblogged from Inspire 'til You Expire: This being human is a guest house. Every morning a new arrival. A joy, a depression, a meanness, some momentary awareness comes as an unexpected visitor. Welcome and entertain them all! Even if they’re a crowd of sorrows, who violently sweep your house, empty of its furniture, still, treat each [...] > read more

All Guests Welcome

Published on 2012-04-27 19:54:49

Living in the Present Moment

Published on 2012-04-27 15:31:18

When one is attempting to live the Dharma it is important to remember to live in the moment and be mindful. Most people, me included, find this difficult. My wife and I were discussing the below quote from Lao Tzu and she said that until now it she had never really felt it. I understand [...] > read more

Living in the Present Moment

Published on 2012-04-27 15:31:18

Visual noise

Published on 2012-04-27 08:45:27

screaming and shouting they intrude upon my serenity- billboards Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, spring, sun, travel, writing > read more

Visual noise

Published on 2012-04-27 08:45:27

The Stages of Awakening

Published on 2012-04-26 16:58:03

Reblogged from 40 Oz of Bad Karma: In Buddhism, panna (Skt. prajna) refers to the wisdom that is based on a realization of dependent origination, the Four Noble Truths and the three marks of existence. It is also listed as the sixth of the six paramitas in Mahayana. Panna is the wisdom that is able [...] > read more

Haiku tip #6

Published on 2012-04-26 15:18:28

Recently I was contacted and asked “How can I call what I write haiku as I do not use 5-7-5″ I hope that this posting helps explain why 5-7-5 is not a requirement of haiku. If one wonders why 5-7-5 does not a haiku make. I turn to Lee Gurga who in his book “Haiku: [...] > read more

Learning to write with Sifu Johnson

Published on 2012-04-26 10:57:57

Recently I started studying Ving Tsun with Sifu Matt Johnson. Sifu Johnson was taught Wing Chun by Master Ip Ching, the youngest son of the late Grandmaster Ip Man. I enjoyed my interview with Sifu Johnson and felt a definite pull towards studying with him. I was a bit worried that he might not accept [...] > read more

Toy soldier

Published on 2012-04-26 09:20:36

sitting quietly at the barred window- discarded soldier Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, spring, sun, travel, Veterans, writing > read more

Another Haiku published!

Published on 2012-04-25 19:34:27

In today’s mail I had a happy surprise. I opened up the Buddhist monthly bulletin to find one of my haiku was chosen for publication. Pretty sure it was chosen for the references to the story of Buddha’s Birth. It is said that when he was born the birds sang and that a sweet rain [...] > read more

Dharma Kids at Buddhist Temple of Chicago

Published on 2012-04-25 17:49:16

On April 22nd the children of the Dharma School ran the service at the Buddhist Temple of Chicago on 4/22/12. Below is a short video of them in action. My daughter does her short talk in the video @ 1:38 Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Buddhist, Buddhist Family, buddhist Monk, buddhist temple of chicago, Chicago, Dharma, dharma [...] > read more

Indian Summer

Published on 2012-04-25 09:20:22

curtains flutter in the warm breeze- indian summer Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, spring, sun, travel, writing > read more

Matt Johnson Ving Tsun: Forms and Chi Sau

Published on 2012-04-24 23:13:15

Reblogged from Ving Tsun Self Defense Academy/Chicago: Tonight at the VTSDA, we were a little all over the place. We started with forms and went to chi sau. Had a visitor, who’d heard about us from this month’s 2nd Friday events. Here’s what it looked like. Like what you see, get in touch with us [...] > read more

Three chief hazards

Published on 2012-04-24 12:30:51

The three chief hazards of haiku: 1: Dulling the image by abstraction. 2: Explaining the image. 3: Anthropomorphism. I forgot where I read this but felt it important enough to write it down. Tagged: Haiku, Poems, Poetry, writing > read more

Cool of night

Published on 2012-04-24 09:10:48

grass rustles in the breeze- night patrol Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, spring, sun, travel, writing > read more

If You Want Peace, Stop Paying For War

Published on 2012-04-24 01:59:45

Reblogged from The Jizo Chronicles: Last week, I became a war tax resister. I’ve been thinking about this for a long time, and finally this spring my actions aligned with my intentions and I sent the following letter to the Internal Revenue Service: Read more… 589 more words A very brave statement. Let us all [...] > read more

Willful Child

Published on 2012-04-23 22:44:35

the sun does not set until it is ready- willful child Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, spring, sun, travel, writing > read more

The Earth is my witness

Published on 2012-04-22 19:24:32

quietly sitting I touch the ground- space dust When Mara challenged Siddhartha as saying the he the title of Buddha “enlightened one” belonged to him his minions shouted that they testified for Mara. Mara asked Siddhartha who would witness for him he reached out his right hand touched the earth, then the earth itself spoke: [...] > read more

Happy Earth Day!

Published on 2012-04-22 18:22:56

Reblogged from 40 Oz of Bad Karma: Happy Earth Day! Today marks the 42nd anniversary of the modern environmental movement which began in 1970. The founder of Earth Day was the then U.S. Senator from Wisconsin, Gaylord Nelson, who proposed the first nationwide environmental protest “to shake up the political establishment and force this issue [...] > read more

Haiku tip #5

Published on 2012-04-22 12:00:08

Shiki’s advice to haiku masters. 1. Read all worth while books and think over their good and bad points. 2. Know all kinda of haiku but have your own style. 3. Gather new material directly. Do not take it from old haiku. 4. Know something about other literature. 5. Know at least something about all [...] > read more

Earth day

Published on 2012-04-22 10:28:36

in space floats the big blue ball home sweet home This was composed by my eight year old daughter. Tagged: animals, birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, earth day, Haiku, kids count, literature, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Becoming Ava

Published on 2012-04-21 08:30:20

in late summer the primates mated- pandora’s box in the cool of fall the hare died- pregnant pause safe from winter the seed grows- tropical seas buds bursting the delicate flower- time irrelevant windy city holds its breath- first cry a single smile moves the universe- daddy’s girl The above senryu sequence is dedicated to [...] > read more

Halfway Mark on my year journey

Published on 2012-04-20 15:06:37

I wanted to take a moment to reflect upon my haiku journey so far. Today is the halfway mark of my journey. Like the lotus flower in the picture I have not bloomed yet. When I look back at my early haiku I can see that I was ignorant of the history of haiku and [...] > read more

Pipe Dreams

Published on 2012-04-20 11:46:57

in the park blowing bubbles- pipe dreams Tagged: birds, blowing bubbles, Buddha, Buddhism, Children, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, pipe dreams, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Chicago Bonsai meeting

Published on 2012-04-19 12:00:45

Yesterday my daughter and I went to the monthly meeting of the Chicago Bonsai Society. We meet at the Garfield Park Conservatory which is a lovely place to visit. Ava and I both re-potted our bonsai. I have took my Fukien tea and Ava took her lovely little Euphorbia geroldii. Hope you enjoy the photos [...] > read more

perfect place ver 2

Published on 2012-04-19 09:15:57

prime real estate comes with a high price- burial plot Take a look at Version 1 and notice how just changing the second image effects the whole. Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, writing > read more

Teaching sharing

Published on 2012-04-18 13:59:00

The following question does not necessarily express the practice of the writer it is only presented as a topic of discussion. “Why as a society do we tell our children to share their toys, books, crayons when we grow up sharing of that kind is not practiced.” Is there something wrong in telling our children [...] > read more

perfect place

Published on 2012-04-18 08:00:42

prime real estate comes with a high price- parking ticket Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, writing > read more

Leaves of gold

Published on 2012-04-17 08:00:44

leaves once gold drift to the ground- hair cut Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Dharma talk on the “Four Dharma Seals”

Published on 2012-04-16 15:35:57

This is the talk I gave at the Buddhist Temple of Chicago on 4/15/12 Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Buddhist, Buddhist Family, buddhist Monk, buddhist temple of chicago, Chicago, Dharma, Meditation, postaday2012, religion > read more

Words of Wisdom from Master Ji Ru (Shifu)

Published on 2012-04-16 12:35:13

Reblogged from Calm Chicago's Blog: I think the Buddha had a very special understanding of what life is. He made it very simple: just bring your mind back to this moment. Don’t let the mind go any further than this. Then your mind will be very clear. When the mind is always in meditation, you [...] > read more

To what length

Published on 2012-04-16 09:30:28

measuring his own life line- inchworm Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Meditation

Published on 2012-04-15 17:02:59

inviting bell sweet meditation ice cream truck Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Haiku tip #4

Published on 2012-04-15 12:00:41

Shiki’s advice to intermediate haiku writers . 1. Remember perspective. Large things are large, but small things are also large if seen close up. 2. Delicacy should be studied, but it cannot be applied to human affairs in seventeen syllables. It can be applied to natural objects. 3. Haiku are not logical proportions, and no [...] > read more

Time-saving software for writers | Writers Online

Published on 2012-04-14 23:51:43

Reblogged from Light at the end of the tunnel: Although there may be a few writers out there that prefer the crisp snap of a typewriter or even the virtual silence of pen and paper as they create, for most of us the computer has become the medium of choice. But a computer is only [...] > read more

Emptiness

Published on 2012-04-14 19:04:26

setting sun simple passage of time- no-self present Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Buddhist Proverbs

Published on 2012-04-13 16:00:52

This Sunday, April 15th 2012, I have been asked to give the message at the Buddhist Temple of Chicago. I decided to discuss the “Four Dharma Seals.” In my research I came across many Buddhist Proverbs at http://japanlifeandreligion.com, the following ten are the my favorites. I am not going to add commentary at this time [...] > read more

Harmonic discord

Published on 2012-04-13 12:00:51

sounds of harmonic discord new neighbors Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, Chicago, City living, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, music, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Haiku tip #3

Published on 2012-04-13 10:32:06

Shiki’s tips for beginning haiku writers 1. Be natural 2. Don’t bother about old rules of grammar and special points like spelling, kireji. 3. Read the old authors, remembering that in them you will find good and bad poems. 4. Notice that commonplace haiku are not direct, but artificially twisted out of shape. 5. Write [...] > read more

Hemingway's Blank Verse

Published on 2012-04-12 14:35:48

Reblogged from American Poets Abroad: “ “ ! : , . , , , . , ; ! , 1916 This is Hemingway at his po [..] > read more

Seeds of war

Published on 2012-04-12 11:11:48

Once again as I look at the news today I am reminded of what Claude Anshin Thomas said in his book “At Hell’s Gate” about the seeds of war. The below haiku was spewed forth from my pondering. seeds of war yield atrocities- innocence lost Source: At Hell’s Gate: A Soldier’s Journey from War to [...] > read more

10 ways to celebrate Poetry Month

Published on 2012-04-12 09:45:01

Since this is National Poetry month I thought I would gather up a few ideas to spark interest. Have fun! Celebrate Poem in Your Pocket Day The idea is simple: select a poem you love, carry it with you, then share it with co-workers, family, and friends. Put a poem on the pavement “Go one step [...] > read more

Eternal summer

Published on 2012-04-11 08:00:29

your smile one time one encounter- eternal summer An attempt to connect three disparate thoughts into a new image. 1. My wife 2. Japanese tea ceremony 3. Shakespeare’s Sonnet #18 Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Publication in World Haiku Review

Published on 2012-04-10 10:46:46

I am happy to announce that one of my haiku was chosen by the editors of World Haiku Review for publication in the April edition of World Haiku Review in the category of Neo-Classical. Here is the chosen haiku. children laughing, playing- yellow daffodils I want to thank my wife for the support in my [...] > read more

Pondering pi

Published on 2012-04-10 09:00:57

the horizon and my thoughts infinite- pondering pi This senryu or perhaps gendai was inspired by a fellow blogger and their one line poetry challenge. http://millieho.net/2012/02/26/the-one-line-poetry-challenge/ Tagged: birds, bodhisattva vow, Buddha, Buddhism, fractals, Haiku, math. Pi, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring > read more

Am I Beautiful?

Published on 2012-04-09 15:18:49

Reblogged from Source of Inspiration: We must first be beautiful to ourselves. More important than acceptance by others is our need to accept ourselves. Hold the mirror of beauty before your face. Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing Well said. Please take a moment to [...] > read more

Am I Beautiful?

Published on 2012-04-09 15:18:49

Sing with joy.

Published on 2012-04-09 10:00:40

birds sing and the clouds cry in joy a Buddha is born Today’s senryu is in honor of Buddha’s birthday. See yesterday’s post for more info Tagged: baby buddha, birds, bodhisattva vow, Buddha, Buddhism, buddhist temple of chicago, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, hanamatsuri, Japan, Kembutsu, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religion, senryu, Shin Buddhism, Shinran, spirituality, [...] > read more

Sing with joy.

Published on 2012-04-09 10:00:40

Hanamatsuri

Published on 2012-04-08 17:47:51

Today was a special day that the Buddhist Temple of Chicago. Today we celebrated the birth of the Buddha. Most Buddhist congregations celebrate the Buddha’s birthday sometime in April or May. The happy occasion is called Wesak, in the Japanese tradition it is called “Hanamatsuri” which translates to “The Flower Festival”. The name Hanamatsuri derives [...] > read more

Hanamatsuri

Published on 2012-04-08 17:47:51

Today was a special day at the Buddhist Temple of Chicago. Today we celebrated the birth of the Buddha. Most Buddhist congregations celebrate the Buddha’s birthday sometime in April or May. The happy occasion is called Wesak, in the Japanese tradition it is called “Hanamatsuri” which translates to “The Flower Festival”. The name Hanamatsuri derives [...] > read more

Spring morning

Published on 2012-04-08 09:00:04

among friends in new spring wardrobe- waves of daffodil I wish all sentient beings happiness and peace on this wonderful spring morning. Happy Easter to my friends who celebrate it. Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Spring morning

Published on 2012-04-08 09:00:04

Wild flowers ver 2

Published on 2012-04-07 10:00:09

wild flowers cover the fields- traffic jam Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Wild flowers ver 2

Published on 2012-04-07 10:00:09

wild flowers cover the fields- traffic jam Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Wild flowers

Published on 2012-04-06 09:00:46

fields covered by queen anne’s lace- traffic jam Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Wild flowers

Published on 2012-04-06 09:00:46

fields covered by queen anne’s lace- traffic jams Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, flowers, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Beethoven, Mindfulness and Meditation

Published on 2012-04-05 12:00:19

In Buddhism we speak of being “Mindful” during meditation. In meditation there are two parts of the mind; Concentration and Mindfulness. Concentration provides the power to keep you focused on the object of mediation. If and when your mind wanders Concentration is the force that guides the mind back onto the object. Mindfulness is the [...] > read more

Beethoven, Mindfulness and Meditation

Published on 2012-04-05 12:00:19

Wad of air

Published on 2012-04-05 08:00:58

wad of air goes floating by spring moon Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Wad of air

Published on 2012-04-05 08:00:58

wad of air goes floating by spring moon Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Inspirational Woman Of The Day

Published on 2012-04-04 12:51:54

Reblogged from LadyRomp: Homa Khaleeli The Guardian, March 7, 2011 Article History Margaret Atwood Novelist behind The Handmaid’s Tale, a cautionary story of a world without feminism Margaret Atwood’s dystopian novel The Handmaid’s Tale has been a relevation for millions of readers – offering a terrifying glimpse of a parallel future where biological determinism and misogyny are [...] > read more

Inspirational Woman Of The Day

Published on 2012-04-04 12:51:54

Mandelbrot rivers

Published on 2012-04-04 08:00:54

orange slices the juice leaves mandelbrot rivers Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Mandelbrot rivers

Published on 2012-04-04 08:00:54

orange slices the juice leaves mandelbrot rivers Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, fractals, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Persimmons

Published on 2012-04-03 08:00:04

early in the season persimmons bite back- forbidden fruit Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, fruit, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Persimmons

Published on 2012-04-03 08:00:04

early in the season persimmons bite back- forbidden fruit Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, fruit, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Develop a Writing Habit

Published on 2012-04-02 10:09:54

Reblogged from Light at the end of the tunnel: One of the first things covered on the creative writing course I am taking, is establishing a writing habit. If you want to be a writer you have to write, and the more you write the more you will develop your writing. Write anything, as much as [...] > read more

Develop a Writing Habit

Published on 2012-04-02 10:09:54

At the Media Circus

Published on 2012-04-02 08:00:25

reflected image looks surprisingly good- fun-house mirror Our self image is generally distorted. Sadly, the mirrors such as television, magazines and movies set up such a false image of what “people” look like that when we do see ourselves in the mirror we are looking with a distorted perspective. Many years ago I worked in [...] > read more

At the Media Circus

Published on 2012-04-02 08:00:25

Blue heron ver 4

Published on 2012-04-01 08:00:08

in the marsh stands the prophet- blue heron waits So far I like this image best. Read version 3 for comparison Read version 2 for comparison Read version 1 for comparison Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Blue heron ver 4

Published on 2012-04-01 08:00:08

April Fools Day

Published on 2012-04-01 00:00:38

to those hurt it’s no laughing matter- april fools day I have never enjoyed April Fools Day. As a child I felt bad for those who were pranked and I also felt a distrust of those who pranked, and it could be anyone, during this day. While it is suppose to be “in good fun” [...] > read more

April Fools Day

Published on 2012-04-01 00:00:38

2 liter bottles of light

Published on 2012-03-31 16:44:29

Reblogged from dimitri seneca snowden: The slums of the Philippines are getting an extreme home makeover in the form of two liter bottles in their ceilings. The bottles function as 60-watt lights powered by 100% solar energy. Refraction is an amazing thing, if you drilled a hole in your ceiling light would drop directly through the [...] > read more

2 liter bottles of light

Published on 2012-03-31 16:44:29

Lottery Silliness

Published on 2012-03-31 09:41:50

lottery hype shows statistical ignorance- death more likely This Senryu spewed forth after reading a discussion by a group of people talking about the lottery and how close they came to winning. As a former Stats professor I find it appalling how few people understand just how unlikely winning the lottery is. The only lottery [...] > read more

Romantic Travel

Published on 2012-03-31 08:00:39

every sunrise with you brings a smile- life long trip Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Haiku, Love, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Children’s Earthday Haiku

Published on 2012-03-30 19:24:14

Here is a haiga (haiku + image) my daughter (age 7) did for Kids-Count-For-Earthday-Haiku competition. If you are on Facebook please visit and click like. The more votes the better her chances. Tagged: animals, birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, Haiku, kids count, literature, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Blue heron ver 3

Published on 2012-03-30 12:30:28

the dark of winter lurking beneath heron wings spear hunting Third attempt at the image. Better but… Read version 2 for comparison Read version 1 for comparison Tagged: birds, Buddha, Buddhism, death, Haiku, nature, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Waiting on my invitation

Published on 2012-03-27 16:52:10

I saw this and figured I will get my invitation in the mail soon. Tagged: David letterman, Haiku, Poems, Poetry > read more

War is hell

Published on 2012-03-27 12:00:57

glancing back as I leave the theatre- war is hell Today’s writing prompt was “Theatre” most people might think of going to a play or movie. To a combat veteran the word has a different meaning. Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, buddhist Monk, butterfly, Chicago, Dharma, Haiku, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, PTSD, senryu, theater, theatre, Veterans, war, writing > read more

Blue heron

Published on 2012-03-27 08:00:59

great blue heron holds dark of winter under its wings- fragrant magnolia blossoms I will be working on this one. Not quite happy with it. Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, butterfly, Chicago, chrysanthemums, dark clouds, death, Dharma, full moon, Haiku, insomnia, moon, nature, plants, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, PTSD, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Happy Birthday Leonard Nimoy

Published on 2012-03-26 16:00:17

Today is the 81st birthday of Leonard Nimoy aka Spock of Star Trek. He is my wife’s favorite on the series and in honor of our meeting him we celebrate his birthday. Here is the cake we ordered. I also wrote a haiku earlier this year about him titled Met Spock Tagged: Birthday, Leonard Nimoy, [...] > read more

Cherry Blossoms

Published on 2012-03-26 14:04:56

cherry blossoms leave a fine dusting- benadryl season Tagged: allergies, benadryl, Buddha, Buddhism, butterfly, Cherry Blossoms, Chicago, Dharma, Haiku, moon, nature, plants, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Perfect minute

Published on 2012-03-26 08:00:54

twice a day perfect minute- 12:34 Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, buddhist Monk, butterfly, Chicago, Dharma, full moon, Haiku, Monk, moon, nature, plants, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, religious ceremony, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

New Monk 2nd version

Published on 2012-03-25 19:15:28

old man with newly shaved head- autumn dawn This is second of two haiku today that I wrote after the prompt “religious ceremony” by the facebook group NaHaiWriMo I edited it because I felt that the first one did was a simple image and felt a second image was needed to flesh out the feeling [...] > read more

New Monk

Published on 2012-03-25 19:04:58

old man with newly shaved head walking the path This is one of two haiku today that I wrote after the prompt “religious ceremony” by the facebook group NaHaiWriMo Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, buddhist Monk, butterfly, Chicago, Dharma, full moon, Haiku, Monk, moon, nature, plants, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, PTSD, religious ceremony, senryu, spring, travel, walking the [...] > read more

No light tonight!

Published on 2012-03-25 10:14:52

dark clouds blot out the moon- yellow chrysanthemums Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, butterfly, Chicago, chrysanthemums, dark clouds, death, Dharma, full moon, Haiku, insomnia, moon, nature, plants, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, PTSD, senryu, spring, travel, writing > read more

Status Haiku - Art Give-A-Way

Published on 2012-03-24 20:41:11

Reblogged from lifeasgood: The first thousand of my haiku are published and available for download from Amazon Kindle. Click through the link to find it in the Amazon store: Status Haiku. The book costs $0.99 (or equivalent in other countries). I wanted to keep the price low and as accessible as possible. I hope you [...] > read more

95 Questions to Help You Find Meaning and Happiness

Published on 2012-03-13 21:19:43

Reblogged from Hands-of-Faith Holistic Healing Centers® Blog: At the cusp of a new day, week, month or year, most of us take a little time to reflect on I tried reblogging this earlier. This one is worth a second shot. > read more

Dripping rain

Published on 2012-03-13 08:00:30

rain drips outside the window- need to pee! Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu > read more

Haiku Tip #1.5

Published on 2012-03-12 16:50:01

This week I thought I’d cover capitalization and since it is a short topic will write another one later. Capitalization I look back at my earlier haiku and see that I used standard rules I learned in English class. But now after reading many books and other works I have a better understanding of the [...] > read more

Daily Zen

Published on 2012-03-12 08:00:28

mindfully preparing carrots- daily zen This is a revisit to a haiku I wrote a few months ago. The original is below sitting in kitchen peeling, cutting, orange carrots silent, daily zen Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu > read more

Sowing the Seeds

Published on 2012-03-12 02:44:34

Tonight as I sit here meditating about what recently occurred in Afghanistan. (which hit home as I was stationed at Ft Lewis) I am reminded of what Thich Nhat Hanh, a Vietnamese Buddhist priest, said to a group of Vietnam Veterans during a retreat years ago. “The Non-Veterans were more responsible for the war than [...] > read more

Invisible Snow

Published on 2012-03-11 21:10:32

'Invisible Snow' This is a moving and inspiring film about a Buddhist monk, Koyu Abe, who instigated the planting of millions of sunflowers and other plants, beginning at his temple,Joenji, and spreading out into the surrounding area. The flowers are believed to absorb the radiation coming from the Fukushima nuclear plant. > read more

Photo shop

Published on 2012-03-11 08:00:48

faded sign says film and dark room supplies photoshop 1.0 Today I met Joe Herbert. Joe has been operating his camera business for over 55 years, in the same location! I have driven by his shop many times and yesterday I decided to stop in. I took in my camera because I had some artifacts [...] > read more

2012 Haiku Events to Inspire Poets to Publish

Published on 2012-03-10 12:57:30

Reblogged from Charlotte Digregorio's Writer's Blog: For those living in the Midwest or those who are planning a trip there in April, June, or July, you may want to attend some haiku events that I will be speaking at. First, on Saturday, April 28, there is Haikufest at the Skokie Public Library in Skokie, IL, [...] > read more

Moon’s shadow

Published on 2012-03-10 08:00:11

planets play in the moon’s shadow spring equinox Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu > read more

Sharp Chicken

Published on 2012-03-09 08:00:11

sharp bites of fried chicken summer picnic In this haiku I continued to use the technique of synesthesia. By now you may be wondering…. What is synesthesia? Synesthesia is a condition in which one sense (for example, hearing) is simultaneously perceived as if by one or more additional senses such as sight. Another form of [...] > read more

Lone Leaf

Published on 2012-03-08 23:07:52

lone leaf sits among strangers- natural pattern Today while at the Art Institute of Chicago we took a walk in the Pritzker garden and the above Haiku was born. Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu > read more

Spring Morning

Published on 2012-03-08 08:00:29

spring morning- the color orange warms me In this haiku I tried to use the technique of synesthesia. I hope you enjoy it. Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu > read more

Empty vessel

Published on 2012-03-07 08:00:14

emptiness fills the vessel- mountain fog Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu > read more

Grandfather smiles

Published on 2012-03-06 08:00:23

snow drifts- grandfather smiles at the children Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu > read more

Agony

Published on 2012-03-05 08:00:25

molten lava- searing burning my existence Well, today was one of those days where pain was very close to me. Nearly every moment felt as if the pain might overwhelm me. Yet, I am still here and tomorrow is another day. Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu > read more

Haiku tip # 1

Published on 2012-03-05 00:52:52

In my studying Haiku I have come across a few interesting tidbits and decided to post them here. I will post one every week. I hope you glean something from these tips. 1. The plural of Haiku is Haiku NOT Haikus. Why? Well, many Japanese words have no plural (like the english words sheep or [...] > read more

Does not compute

Published on 2012-03-04 08:00:23

parent denial offspring growing up way to fast Last October our daughter turned 18. My wife and I are still having difficulties accepting this fact. Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, parenting, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu > read more

Poetry Gazette

Published on 2012-03-04 01:29:40

Up late and checking my twitter account I discovered that on Friday I was in the “Poetry Gazette.” The poem chosen was “leap year” below is the link to the archive. Check them out as their are, better written, poems there to read. http://paper.li/GoodBlogPosts10/1317048450/2012/03/02 Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, parenting, Poems, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu > read more

Daily Dharma

Published on 2012-03-03 15:04:09

Today I wanted to share with you an excellent resource for a daily dose of the Dharma. The Bright Dawn center of Oneness Buddhism has a daily dharma lesson. You can hear it by calling (847) 386-8836 it is very short only about 2 minutes. The center also has a weekly blogtalk dharma speech that [...] > read more

Black Cat

Published on 2012-03-03 08:00:14

by front door black cat waits meal ticket I am pretty sure that our newest member Nyota Uhura, yes from Star Trek, is only here for the food. The rest of the time she does not have need for us silly humans. Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Last Stop

Published on 2012-03-02 11:00:33

va hospital patiently waiting- last stop Today while visiting the VA I was nearly brought to tears as I looked around at the many Veterans who looked as if this visit might be there last. Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Veterans, Zen > read more

Always rich!

Published on 2012-03-02 08:00:09

A senryu series rich – powerful unsatiated craving always poor poor – peaceful cravings quelled always rich Today’s haiku series was inspired by an email I received from “The Daily Enlightenment“ Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Occupy, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Migraines

Published on 2012-03-01 08:00:39

worm infestation gnawing at fleshy parts ocular migraine Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Migraines

Published on 2012-03-01 08:00:39

worm infestation gnawing at fleshy parts ocular migraine Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Take a Leap

Published on 2012-02-29 19:55:17

time lag every four years take a leap Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, leap, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Take a Leap

Published on 2012-02-29 19:55:17

time lag every four years take a leap Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, leap, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Humanity

Published on 2012-02-29 08:00:40

driven to live forever forward human nature Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Humanity

Published on 2012-02-29 08:00:40

driven to live forever forward human nature Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Order of perception in Poetry

Published on 2012-02-28 12:00:59

In my readings I just noticed something profound and important in composing poetry, especially Haiku. What I am speaking of is “sensory perception” order. I noticed that in some of my weaker works I had not paid attention to the order of perception. I think I did this to create a sense of surprise but [...] > read more

Order of perception in Poetry

Published on 2012-02-28 12:00:59

Tinnitus

Published on 2012-02-28 08:00:27

key of E constant ringing edge of sanity If you have ever been to a concert or a fireworks display and had ringing in your ears, imagine never being able to turn off that ringing in your head! We who suffer from tinnitus deal with this every day. Mine occurred while in the military over [...] > read more

Tinnitus

Published on 2012-02-28 08:00:27

Sniper

Published on 2012-02-27 08:00:37

zip last sound- sniper Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Sniper

Published on 2012-02-27 08:00:37

zip last sound- sniper Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Sunday Brunch

Published on 2012-02-26 08:00:01

j’adore sunday brunch in bed Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Sunday Brunch

Published on 2012-02-26 08:00:01

j’adore sunday brunch in bed Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Yellow Journalism

Published on 2012-02-25 14:00:38

network news yellow journalism court approved The writing prompt for today is “yellow” I decided to write this senryu using the definition of yellow as follows: dishonest in editorial comment and the presentation of news, especially in sacrificing truth for sensationalism: Beware of what you see and even more of what you are told. I [...] > read more

Yellow Journalism

Published on 2012-02-25 14:00:38

Summer Vacation

Published on 2012-02-25 08:00:10

Spanish m reminder o of past s sum- s mer … vaca- tions Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Summer Vacation

Published on 2012-02-25 08:00:10

Spanish m reminder o of past s sum- s mer … vaca- tions Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Xenophobic policies

Published on 2012-02-24 08:00:44

xenophobes setting foreign policies trouble brewing Today’s National Haiku month prompt was to use a word with an “x.” This haiku is not directed at any country, political party or politician. It is just thought provoking poem. (hopefully) -added the (s) to xenophobe as suggested by http://bennaga.wordpress.com/ Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, [...] > read more

Xenophobic policies

Published on 2012-02-24 08:00:44

A proud moment

Published on 2012-02-23 17:12:47

Today I was very surprised. Last month I submitted my photography in the Veterans National Art competition and today was the showing. Happily I took 1st place in the Black and White category and 2nd place in the Color category. I want to share in this moment with those who visit this blog. Tagged: Buddha, [...] > read more

A proud moment

Published on 2012-02-23 17:12:47

Chemotherapy

Published on 2012-02-23 14:00:41

blonde wig hiding ravages of treatment The second haiku today following the writing prompt of “wig” in honor of national haiku month. Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Chemotherapy

Published on 2012-02-23 14:00:41

Blustery Chicago

Published on 2012-02-23 08:00:08

blustery wind vanity exposed toupee The writing prompt today for national haiku month was wig so… Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Blustery Chicago

Published on 2012-02-23 08:00:08

blustery wind vanity exposed toupee The writing prompt today for national haiku month was wig so… Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Insomnia

Published on 2012-02-23 04:18:58

insomnia mind wandering strange lands Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Ash Wednesday

Published on 2012-02-22 13:14:00

curiosities foreheads with crosses- Ash Wednesday I imagine that future anthropologists will ponder over the curious rituals of our cultural and think us superstitious, backward barbarians as we have of past cultures. Tagged: ash Wednesday, Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Umbrellas appear

Published on 2012-02-22 08:00:19

umbrellas appear sudden downpour starts sprouting mushrooms Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Sandals

Published on 2012-02-21 08:00:43

Muddy sandals left by temple door- Narrow road This haiku is a tip of the hat to Basho’s “Narrow Road to the Interior.” This book is a travel diary of one of Basho’s many traveling tours of Japan. His walks yielded much inspiration for his haiku. Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Death Rattle

Published on 2012-02-20 08:00:01

Old man death rattling in his snore Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Constitution

Published on 2012-02-19 08:00:21

Constitution dreadfully cracked needs mending Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Occupy Wall Street, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

Constitution

Published on 2012-02-19 08:00:21

Constitution dreadfully cracked needs mending Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Occupy Wall Street, Poetry, postaday2012, senryu, Zen > read more

For the Love of Haiku

Published on 2012-02-18 09:49:06

“This is Wabash” car fills with menagerie “doors closing” This haiku is part of “For the Love of Haiku.” It is their way of sparking conversation and creativity. The above haiku is written based off the below image. To see more about the task and to participate visit. For The Love of Haiku. My haiku [...] > read more

For the Love of Haiku

Published on 2012-02-18 09:49:06

Absolute day

Published on 2012-02-18 08:00:52

Living Life span > 0 | DAY | If you have forgotten absolute values remember that distance from zero cannot be negative so then each day has a positive value. Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, senryu, Zen > read more

Absolute day

Published on 2012-02-18 08:00:52

Snowcapped Buddha

Published on 2012-02-17 08:00:56

Garden Buddha ponders the falling snow wearing a jaunty cap Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, senryu, Zen > read more

Snowcapped Buddha

Published on 2012-02-17 08:00:56

Garden Buddha ponders the falling snow wearing a jaunty cap Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, senryu, Zen > read more

Snowcapped Buddha

Published on 2012-02-17 08:00:56

Garden Buddha ponders the falling snow wearing a jaunty cap Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, senryu, Zen > read more

Melancholy

Published on 2012-02-16 08:00:33

Cold winter rain Moonless night sky shadow barking Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, senryu, Zen > read more

Melancholy

Published on 2012-02-16 08:00:33

Cold winter rain Moonless night sky shadow barking Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, senryu, Zen > read more

Bad dog!

Published on 2012-02-15 08:00:00

police worldwide in attack dog mode bad dog! Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Occupy, Poetry, senryu, Zen > read more

Bad dog!

Published on 2012-02-15 08:00:00

police worldwide in attack dog mode bad dog! Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Occupy, Poetry, senryu, Zen > read more

Even the snow

Published on 2012-02-14 08:00:18

Even the snow has tints of pink Valentines day Today is dedicated to my wonderful bride, partner and confidant. Happy Valentines day my love. Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, senryu, valentines day, Zen > read more

Even the snow

Published on 2012-02-14 08:00:18

Perfect jewel

Published on 2012-02-13 08:00:49

Seemingly necessary imperfection in the jewel The beauty unfolds Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, senryu, Zen > read more

Perfect jewel

Published on 2012-02-13 08:00:49

Seemingly necessary imperfection in the jewel The beauty unfolds Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, senryu, Zen > read more

Darwin Day

Published on 2012-02-12 08:00:38

Evolve your beliefs theory of evolution fits with Buddhism Today’s Haiku is in honor of Charles Darwin and “Darwin Day.” On February 12th every year the birthday of Charles Darwin is celebrated. In Buddhist practice we speak of everything changing and the Mr. Darwin’s theory is compatible with the Dharma on other points as well [...] > read more

Darwin Day

Published on 2012-02-12 08:00:38

The Pleasures of Drowning

Published on 2012-02-11 08:00:42

drowning in your love everyday sinking deeper Blissful happiness Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, senryu, Zen > read more

The Pleasures of Drowning

Published on 2012-02-11 08:00:42

drowning in your love everyday sinking deeper Blissful happiness Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, senryu, Zen > read more

Death row

Published on 2012-02-10 08:00:58

Animal death row Wagging tails, happy purrs Impending doom Today we decided to add another cat to our household. We we ended up with 2 more. It is so sad to see animals at the shelter. They all seem sweet and in need of a good home. At least this time we saved two. Tagged: [...] > read more

Avoid anger

Published on 2012-02-09 08:00:32

Anger can become comfortable Old leather Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, senryu, Zen > read more

Waiting for Spring

Published on 2012-02-08 08:00:23

Growing grim cold November in my soul waiting for spring Tagged: Buddha, Buddhism, Dharma, Haiku, Poetry, senryu, Zen > read more

Zen and the World

Published on 2011-05-26 14:42:34

While reading “Zen Antics” I came across a poem written by Zen Master Gisan in 1866. He recited these poems in response to being given an honorary title by the emperor of Japan. These three poems are as applicable today as they were in > read more

What is Life?

Published on 2011-05-20 18:02:58

The other day I was speaking with my mother-in-law and she shared with me the following list about “What is Life” Life is a challenge…………………………..meet it. Life is a gift… > read more

Buddhist Statues at Art Institute of Chicago

Published on 2011-05-02 23:34:42

I live in Chicago and love the Art Institute of Chicago. Today I took my girls and we spent hours just looking at the statues of Buddha. There were so many that we ran out of time to see much else. Below are some of the photo’s I took. If you p > read more

Beethoven, Mindfulness and Meditation

Published on 2011-04-21 11:49:19

Buddhist Home Shrine

Published on 2011-04-20 11:47:55

One day I had a friend over and they saw my statue of Buddha in my home shrine. They told me that they heard Buddhist’s worship “false idols.” I explained to them that unlike other religions Buddhists do not have images of Buddha as > read more

Sections of the Noble Eight Fold Path

Published on 2011-04-17 14:32:22

We have been looking at the “Four Noble Truths” and heading into the “Noble Eightfold Path.” But before head out the gate and start the steps of the Path I want to break them down into their sections and how they relate to eac > read more

It’s just a little bit of Poop.

Published on 2011-04-13 22:30:24

The other day my daughter was asking me about playing with some kids down the street. I remember that one of the kids was mean to her. So I used the following story to talk about being around a group with “just ONE” of anything. It worked > read more

Radio host Bryan Fischer dishonors “Medal of Honor”

Published on 2011-04-11 13:25:49

As a Veteran I get really upset when people who have no idea what combat is like think they can judge who is a good soldier and who is not. Recently it came to my attention that Bryan Fisher of “Rightly Concerned” a “American Family > read more

Free downloadable books on Vipassana Meditation

Published on 2011-04-10 15:43:46

If you practice Vipassana meditation you might be familiar with the works by S.N Goenka but have you read anything by the Venerable Dhammajiva? The Venerable Dhammajiva has practiced meditation as a master for over a decade and is the Abbot and instr > read more

Making Block type with a Potato -Homeschooling Project-

Published on 2011-04-10 13:28:00

Today as Monty Python would say “and now for something completely different” After a week of activism, blogging and such I decided to teach my daughter how to make block print out of potatoes as a bit of homeschooling work. To do this you > read more

Sen Bernie Sanders says GOP plan is “Totally absurd”

Published on 2011-04-09 19:05:25

I think that Sen Sanders is one of our legislators who is actually saying it like it is. Senator Reid, President Obama and the rest of the Democratic Party need to stand up to the Tealiban. I thought this country had a policy of not negotiating with > read more

A letter to American Protesters from a Aussie Conservative.

Published on 2011-04-09 17:13:04

Fellow Activists, What follows is a letter from a person on FaceBook. After you have read it you might want to contact him at his FB_Page. I thank him for telling me what others think of our actions. It is obvious that our voices are being heard so k > read more

Quantum Physics and Buddhism. Do they agree?

Published on 2011-04-08 07:57:03

A great explanation of why Quantum Physics agrees with the teachings of Buddha. > read more

Congressional Reform Act of 2011 Revised

Published on 2011-04-07 18:38:58

Early this year I received a spam email about “The Congressional Reform Act of 2011.” I looked at it and thought that most of it sounded like good suggestions to me, but what were the facts. After a bit of research I found out that FactCh > read more

Sister Chan Khong sings Plum Village’s “Happy Song”

Published on 2011-04-07 16:57:53

This morning before I rolled out of bed I thought “What a pain-filled and agonizing day today is going to be.” Then I checked my email and a buddhist friend of mine had sent me a video of Sister Chan Khong from Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plu > read more

PBS’s Mr. Rogers speaks with compassion to Senate.

Published on 2011-04-06 12:19:39

In 1969, Mr. Rogers appeared before the United States Senate Subcommittee on Communications. He spoke in defense of funding for PBS and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, in response to significant proposed cuts by President Nixon. Where is the > read more

Full Speech from Jobs with Justice and US UnCut Rally with Montage.

Published on 2011-04-06 07:42:49

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Filial Duties: How a family should act towards each other.

Published on 2011-04-05 08:41:50

Recently I was talking with my daughters about what a Buddhist children’s duties to their parents were and what a Buddhist parents duties were to their children. Below is what the Buddha has to say in the Sigalovada Sutta: The Discourse to Sigala, > read more

Buddha’s Fourth Noble Truth – Magga, or the Eightfold Path

Published on 2011-04-04 08:16:12

Thus far we have looked at the first three Noble Truths. The Fourth Noble Truth is the Middle Path, a path leading to the cessation of Dukkha — and thus the path to enlightenment. You might have heard is called the Middle Way. The path is calle > read more

Buddha’s Third Noble Truth – Nirodha

Published on 2011-04-03 17:53:22

In the past few articles we discussed and identified the causes of suffering, thus we are now ready to discuss how to put an end to suffering. Just as when one has identified the pain in your lower, left side, abdomen and you are then in a position t > read more

April’s “First Friday” Jobs with Justice and US UnCut Video

Published on 2011-04-03 06:18:40

Video of the Jobs with Justice and US UnCut “First Friday” There are four speakers but the video is only 3 minutes. Take those few minutes to learn about Jobs with Justice and US Uncut. I start at 1:30 into it. > read more

US UnCut Chicago’s Bank of America on April 2nd Photo’s

Published on 2011-04-02 17:25:27

Today US UnCut Chicago went to voice its displeasure with Bank of America the tax dodgers. Next week we will team up with AFL-CIO, Jobs With Justice for a nationwide protest. In Chicago, statewide events and mobilizations will culminate in a “W > read more

“First Friday” Rally Photo’s

Published on 2011-04-01 18:03:25

Photo’s from Aprils “First Friday” Rally. > read more

April 1st “First Friday” Rally: “Jobs with Justice” and “US UnCut Chicago”

Published on 2011-04-01 17:10:53

This week I was asked to speak on behalf of US UnCut at the Jobs with Justice monthly rally at the James R Thompson Center in Chicago. There were four speakers including Susan Hurley of Jobs with Justice. After the speeches we marched up Lasalle Ave, > read more

Buddha’s Second Noble Truth – Samudaya

Published on 2011-03-31 12:17:10

In the first in this series we looked at “The First Noble Truth.” Today we will continue with Buddha’s Second Noble Truth. The Second Noble Truth states that the cause of all suffering (dukkha) is desire (Tanha, Trishna or Raga -dep > read more

The Nation’s Allison Kilkenny reports on US UnCut’s Actions!

Published on 2011-03-31 08:01:15

On March 26th US UnCut held an international day of action. In the UK 400,000 people walked the streets of London in protest. All over the States in places like Chicago, New York, Los Angeles and Seattle people got out and held actions in Bank of Ame > read more

A Buddhist Marriage; a partnership in Dharma

Published on 2011-03-30 07:53:19

In my Buddhist studies, I have been wondering about being with my wife in future existences as it took me so long in this one to find her. The Buddha discussed this in the Pancavudha pyo Sutta. At the time of the Buddha there lived a wealthy man, Nak > read more

Buddha’s First Noble Truth.

Published on 2011-03-29 08:00:28

Thus I have heard. That the first Noble Truth is “Life is Suffering” or Dukkha. When I talk to people, non-buddhists, about this they seem to think that this is very pessimistic. I then attempt to further explain what I think the Buddha meant. Th > read more

US UnCut Chicago Bank of America Action (Video)

Published on 2011-03-28 14:51:43

This past weekend US UnCut Chicago went toe to toe with Bank of America. > read more

Why I became involved in US UnCut’s Action in Chicago March 26th

Published on 2011-03-27 11:16:19

Yesterday, for the first time in my life I decided to participate in an Civil Action. I did not make this decision lightly! As I dug into the history books in my personal library, watched the news, read the newspapers, and listened to NPR I slowly ca > read more

Taming the Bull a Zen Buddhist Parable.

Published on 2011-03-27 08:27:34

In my writings this week I have been focusing on activism and politics. Today I present a well known story by Kakuan and translated by Nyogen Senzaki. The illustrations reproduced here are modern versions by the noted Kyoto woodblock artist Tomikichi > read more

Bank of America refuses to close customer’s account.

Published on 2011-03-26 20:29:22

It seems that todays Action by US UnCut reached at least one person and that person was so moved that they proudly walked into the Bank of America to close her account. But, when she came out of the bank she was in shock and near tears. When asked wh > read more

US UnCut Chicago March 26th Action (Photo’s)

Published on 2011-03-26 18:27:40

Today I went to the US UnCut Chicago action and took some photo’s. I enjoyed seeing some many people out on such a cold day exercising their First Amendment Right! > read more

US Uncut – Bank of America protest Tips!

Published on 2011-03-25 14:43:39

If you are going to protest tomorrow in solidarity with US UnCut’s International “Day of Action” here are some tips you might find useful Tips and Action Ideas from US Uncut San Francisco Part 1: Intervention inside banking center M > read more

How to make homemade paints for your next protest.

Published on 2011-03-25 06:57:08

A few days ago I wrote about how to make sidewalk chalk. After a bit of testing I wanted something that was more vivid in color. Then my daughter smiled at me after drinking her Kool-aid and as I wiped off her little face I realized the answer was st > read more

Dr. Martin Luther King, Glenn Beck and Workers Rights

Published on 2011-03-24 12:04:43

This week I was flipping through the channels and saw Glenn Beck mention “collective bargaining” and I thought, hmm I wonder what whacky thing he is going to say now. To my shock and horror he took a quote from AFL-CIO chief Richard Trumk > read more

US UnCut Chicago’s planned Action for Saturday March 26th

Published on 2011-03-23 00:00:38

US Uncut will be meeting up at Caribou Coffee at 3240 North Ashland between 12:30 and 1 PM. #####EMBARGOED and CONFIDENTIAL##### #####Email info@usuncutchicago dot org for specific information###### …PLEASE COME OUT! You’ll have made your > read more

Bernie Sanders book “The Speech” and how Disabled Veterans are ignored by Republicans.

Published on 2011-03-22 13:19:30

This past week I was introduced to the work of Senator Bernie Sanders. All I can say is WOW! This guy is saying exactly what I and lots of Americans have been thinking. In his book “The Speech” he lays out why the “agreement” > read more

US UnCut Boston’s “Teach-In” at Bank of America

Published on 2011-03-21 20:59:55

This past weekend US Uncut Chapters in Philadelphia, New York, California and Georgia held protests at Bank of America’s. Here in Chicago we had a meeting to plan for the upcoming, larger, nationwide protests. On Saturday March 26th, in additio > read more

How to make Spray Chalk!

Published on 2011-03-20 23:50:41

Today my daughter and I decided to show how to make Spray Chalk. It of course has many uses including not just protest sidewalk banners. > read more

Karma and the Fierce Buddhist Activist

Published on 2011-03-20 15:24:56

Most people think that being an activist means getting out and protesting. While usually this is true sometimes it takes place right in your neighborhood. In the following true event I was able to act as a Activist and a Buddhist. The situation prese > read more

Fukushima Nuclear Boy’s Stinky Poop.

Published on 2011-03-19 22:11:34

Today on NPR I heard about the Anime video from Japan that was made to explain what is going on in Fukushima to Kids. It is called “Nuclear Boy’s Stinky Poop.” Two lessons learned. 1. Poop stinks 2. NPR Matters! > read more

Tax Dodgers, Banks, Senator Thomas Benton and Andrew Jackson

Published on 2011-03-19 17:21:14

If you watch the news or even Faux news you might think that the current pandering to the banking institutions is something new and acceptable, well, it is not. Since our Nation’s early days, when Andrew Jackson was president 1829-1837, the Nationa > read more

Activist Poet Calvin Trillian’s poem to WI Gov Scott Walker

Published on 2011-03-18 14:45:42

Recently I came across a magazine call “The Nation.” I find it interesting to read as an alternative to the usual suspects, i.e. Newsweek, Time, New Yorker. In the current issue there are articles on the following topics: Letters section > read more

Ultimate Act of Civil Disobedience.

Published on 2011-03-17 23:55:26

Today, March 16th 2011, in western China a Tibetan Monk named Phuntsog set himself on fire in an anti-government protest on Wednesday afternoon near the Kirti Monastry. When the police arrived, they doused the flames, then beat and kicked Phuntsog, t > read more

US UnCut’s Protesting at Bank of America Conference

Published on 2011-03-16 12:45:26

In an earlier posting I alluded to an event where Us UnCut had managed to get in and have a few moments with the Investors of Bank of America. This short posting is the video from that event. � > read more

US Uncut on Blogtalk radio with Coffee Party.

Published on 2011-03-16 12:20:29

This weekend US Uncut co-founder, Ryan Clayton, spoke with Coffee Party’s co-founders Eric Byler & Annabel Park on BlogTalk Radio, also on the show was Mark Miller, a Coffee Party member who disagrees with US Uncut’s approach. This ev > read more

What the heck is a Fierce Buddhist

Published on 2011-03-15 20:53:57

It might seem strange to think of the Buddha as a “warrior” as he is normally and correctly seen as a figure of peace. As a Veteran of the U.S Army I would like to talk about what it means to be a Warrior or a Fierce Buddhist. The Buddha never ad > read more

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