Hakuin: Sound of One Hand
By Casey Shannon Studio
 | Hakuin contemplating the
Sound of One Hand |
What is the sound of one hand clapping?
So asked Hakuin, the author of this well known Zen koan. Hakuin was one of the most important Japanese Zen masters of the Rinzai school. Hakuin often asked his students to contemplate and meditate on this koan. Hakuin Ekaku (白隠 慧鶴, 1686-1769 or 1685-1768) was one of the most influential figures in Japanese Zen Buddhism.
Much of Hakuin's practice focused, as his teachings did, on zazen and koan practice. His motto was "meditation in the midst of activity is a thousand times superior to meditation in stillness". Hakuin's experiences of enlightenment seemed to come at unexpected moments, often when he was just walking or reading. One experience that he wrote about took place while he was walking through a torrential rain. As the water reached his knees, he suddenly realized the meaning of a particular verse that he had read earlier, and was seized by enlightenment. He had many such experiences, both large and small. Laughter was a large part of Hakuin's reaction to his enlightenments, and he was known to burst into spontaneous laughter upon realizing the essence of a particular koan, causing those around him to believe him to be a madman.
My heartfelt mission is to tell everyone on the planet that there is hope and life after stroke or any traumatic life-altering experience. I want to inspire others not only with my words but also with my art. Hakuin asked this question: 'What is the sound of one hand clapping?'. Could it be painting in wild abandon with your non-dominate hand? Creating 'The Sound of One Hand'?
Click Here to read my story and view 'The Sound of One Hand'.
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Haiku of the Month
Even when not listening,
lift up one hand-
the cuckoo! ~ Hakuin EkakuKikazu to mo
katate wageyo
hotogisu
~ Hakuin Ekaku
 
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On A Personal Note
By Casey
 This is my new grand child. Her name is Aven Shannon Chester. She was born on October 25, 2010 at 6:28am. She was 7lb 13oz and 19 inches long. Aven was born in the year of the Tiger!Aven is a 15th century Celtic name meaning 'pure radiance'! There are also little flowers called 'Mountain Avens' that grow only in high altitudes such as the Alps. These sturdy little flowers are related to the rose. Sure puts a whole new meaning to the phrase, 'My wild Irish Rose', eh? Enso Aven by Casey This painting was inspired by my granddaughter. Original not for sale. Prints available Here |
Gabe's Gossip!
~ Observations from a Service Dog
Feature by Service Dog, Gabe
 Hi Everyone!Here I am again this month. I just turned 2 years old (that's 14 in dog years) in June and I sure have learned a lot. Life is great and here are some words to remember.I would like to share with you a bit of my wisdom.
Gabe's Wisdom!
Take time to Relax! Don't forget to visit my trainer, Maureen Maurer, and her HCI website. She is known as 'the dog whisperer' on Maui. Hawaii Canines for IndependenceWe have a video of HCI graduates on YouTube also. You just gotta watch it. Guaranteed to make you cry! Can you find Casey and me? HCI Puppy Love on YouTube~ Bye for now, Gabe |
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