> I hate to interupt your discussion by possibly moving off the official
> subject a bit. However, at the firm I work for, we "dig-hounds" often
> times enjoy what we call zen-archaeology. It typically consists of an
> individual occupying him/herself strictly with excavation of a unit.
> Normally the person remains quiet and introspective, even while a heated
> discussion can be taking place a meter away. Time, effort and exhaustion
> usually drift away, mental problems are solved and production (I hate to
> apply that term, but in CRM work...) is higher than usual. Typical
> practice is for people to switch duties throughout the day, but when one
> gets in this "zen-state," one can usually accomplish the back-breaking
> labor for a ten-hour day without any exhaustion.
>
> I realize that we probably aren't using the term zen correctly, which is
> why I think I am veering off from your subject matter. However, that is
> what we call it and I thought I would add this personal experience.
>
Hello Brad,
Thankyou for these fascinating comments.
They remind me of a book I once read by a master of zen.
He explained that his initial attraction toward studying zen formally
in his late teens ( I think ) stemmed from a recollection from his
childhood.As a child,he was being taught brush and ink calligraphy.
He found that the harder he tried,the worse the results.But occasionally,
he became totally absorbed in the work,and forgot himself.Then,the
calligraphy 'just happened',and when he 'resurfaced' as an observer
of what he had done,he was astonished at the results.He had tried to
hold onto those moments of absorbtion,but without success.
Later,when he entered formal zen training,he reconnected with
that ability.
I think the kind of concentrated state of mind which you describe so
nicely is an entirely natural phenomena.What the masters have done,
over many centuries,is to explore that (and other) psychological state
and refine the whole area to a very high degree.
Some teachings give detailed descriptions of many 'levels of consciousness'
(to use Jesse's term),and a master is one who can enter or leave any leve[
according to his or her desire.Whereas an untrained person may never
encounter such levels in a lifetime,or if they do,just consider it an 'odd
experience'.
The ability for extremely intense concentration is a requirement of formal
zen training.But,rather than being directed toward trowelling soil,etc,
the focus of awareness is directed inward.As that ability gathers strength
from practice - analogous to developing muscles by weight lifting - it
has effects upon all that one perceives in daily life.
That said,zen is not just becoming lost in an experience,or having a powerful
ability to concentrate.There is a lot more to it.
Thanks again for the contribution.Perhaps all my typing is not always entirely
in vain ;-)
Chris.
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