Paul Gapper was one of the participants in the 4-weeks course run by Daizan on the 4 boundless meditations; loving kindness, compassion, sympathetic joy and peace. Here, Paul, answers a few questions regarding his experience with the course.
How would you describe your experience at the Zen Compassion Course?
I found the teaching very clear and helpful in setting up a practice
How have you integrated the course experience into your daily life?
I have incorporated the practices into my meditation schedule, alternating with breathing and open practice.
If you were to inspire someone to attend the course in the future, what would you tell them?
It seems to me that in adopting these practices we are shadowing the enlightened mind. Attempting to see the world in the way that an enlightened mind would: present and compassionate. The practices are such a useful balance to a life that is often self-centred, pressured and stressed. I could feel the relief as I started to practise them.
In your own practice, own do you use the element of compassion?
I have found being able to connect with the experience of compassion so useful in my life. Something we all need, no matter who we are.
Which three words could describe your experience with the course?
Balanced, clear and helpful.