Synopsis:
Drawing on sources as diverse as the Bible and stand-up comics, Ford reflects on his more than four decades walking the Path and the Big Questions asked and answered (in his words: sort of ). He examines the nature of Awakening and what it means to work toward it helping us see, in the words of one chapter title, Some of What Zen Practice Is, and a Little of What It Isn t ; he offers a wise perspective on the nature of spiritual directors and enormously helpful counsel on What to Look for When Looking for a Teacher ; and give us a seasoned look at the core practices of Zen (shikantaza and koan study) within the key principles of not knowing and sitting down, shutting up, and paying attention . This book explores the always fascinating issues of karma and rebirth from the deconstructing perspective of Zen in a way that will find resonance with both conservatives and the vast audience of Stephen Batchelor s Confessions of a Buddhist Atheist.
Review:
"Finally, a book that reveals to every seeker that the religious and spiritual paths can be one and the same! No one who is on a search for wholeness and meaning will be unaffected by these life-changing reflections of James Ishmael Ford."--Lee Barker, president, Meadville Lombard Theological School
"Engaging, humorous, deep without being dry. I recommend it to Buddhists and also non-Buddhists."--OpenBuddha.com
"James Ford's Field Notes covers the spiritual turf from beginner to Zen master with honesty, clarity and beauty. We love seeing our UU minister and Zen master plotting murder while checking out of the supermarket, as much as we love his probing the depths of Zen wisdom. A book that sparkles with the complexities of humanity, ethical wisdom, and love--and also offers clear instructions for beginning a Zen practice."--Grace Schireson, author of Zen Women
"James Ford shows us how take the initiative and to be ready to be surprised by joy, freedom, and the whole mess. A valuable companion filled with encouragement for beginners and experienced meditators alike."--Diane Eshin Rizzetto, author of Waking Up to What You Do
"A must-read addition to the growing literature on 'Western Zen'--with an engaging clarity and informed easy-going sophistication."--Zoketsu Norman Fischer, author of Sailing Home: Using the Wisdom of Homer's Odyssey to Navigate Life's Perils and Pitfalls
"A wonderful blend of story, advice, perspective, history, and instruction."--Sumi Loundon, author of Blue Jean Buddha
"An example of engaged, moving, eye-opening and contemporary Zen, lived deeply in the world."--SweepingZen.com
"Field Notes from a Zen Life is a sparklingly refreshing offering. Ford's mature, playful, multifaceted Zen has been slow-cooking for forty years and is now ready. Read and delight!"--Dosho Port, author of Keep Me in Your Heart a While
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