As light fades, we head back to the zendo for evening zazen. Brother Andrew is one of the Christian monks here with me on this "Spiritual Exchange." He is wearing the traditional hakama skirt appropriate to a formal occasion such as Ozzeshin. We Christians have taken a break for the afternoon so that we can have Mass (our Christian prayer) and some conversation. Really, however, we take a break because we simply cannot stand the to sit so long. My knees are still hurting from this morning's sitting, and it is hours later!
The beauty of the place belies the austere life of the monastery. But the austere life belies the quiet joy of the community and place as well.
This is a place of many contrasts. So many, it is hard to say which are the deeper reality, and which are merely passing. And so we are invited to spend more time, to see deeper. That is zen for me for today.