Tenzo

A few weeks ago,

we discussed a few passages in the Tenzo Kyokun, or Instructions to the Tenzo, the Zen Cook.

And it's found in this really wonderful compendium of some of Dogen's most well-known fascicles called Moon in a Dew Drop, Writings of Zen Master Dogen, and it's edited by Kaz Tanahashi.

We focused last time on the devotion to one's work and serving the community.

When we work in this way, we are Buddha's disciples doing Buddha's work.

Even in the most mundane tasks, If we keep our way-seeking mind active, in other words, paying attention to what we're doing and why we're doing it, and to serve the community and leave behind fame and gain, we can feel a sense of purpose and joy.

Remember the story about the Tenzo that Dogen met on the ship in China? The Tenzo had walked 12 miles that morning in search of shiitake mushrooms to make a special soup for an upcoming ceremonial meal.

Dogen was incredibly impressed by the Tenzo's dedication.