In this episode, Zen Buddhist monk Brother Phap Huu and leadership coach Jo Confino reflect on the passing of Brother Phap Huu's father and the power of community in difficult moments, as well as considering insights into the teachings of no birth, no death.
This emotional conversation touches tender places and explores the Brother's personal journey of grief and loss, from first hearing the news of his father’s stroke, to the funeral and the subsequent processing. Brother Phap Huu further explores his complicated relationship with his father, the sacrifices made by his parents, and his regret at not being able to fully express his gratitude and love.
Indeed, “It's one thing to teach about ‘no birth, no death’, the passing of a loved one, but it's a very different thing to experience it.”
The episode ends with a short meditation guided by Brother Phap Huu.
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Quote
“We're here to connect the ultimate and the historical - not to see them as separate, but to bring them closer together.”
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🔔 The Way Out Is In: The Zen Art of Living is a podcast series mirroring Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh’s deep teachings of Buddhist philosophy: a simple yet profound methodology for dealing with our suffering, and for creating more happiness and joy in our lives.
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🎙️ The podcast is co-produced by the Plum Village App and Global Optimism with support from the Thich Nhat Hanh Foundation.
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Resources
Bodh Gaya
Bodhi tree
Christiana Figueres
‘The Fourteen Mindfulness Trainings’
Interbeing
Joan Halifax
‘Listening to Namo Avalokiteshvara’
Plum Village Tradition
Vulture Peak
Sister Chan Khong
Upaya Zen Center
Vulture Peak
The Way Out Is In: ‘Slow Down, Rest, and Heal: The Spirit of the Rains Retreat (Episode #7)’
The Way Out Is In: ‘The Three Jewels (Episode #89)’