An Update from Linda Galijan, the Tassajara Director
Tanto Greg Fain gave the last dharma talk of the summer guest season on Saturday night, expressing deep appreciation of the remarkable strength of the students’ practice this summer, and gratitude for our guests and friends, who have supported Tassajara in so many ways. He talked about jumping off the 100 foot pole and saying, ‘Yes! to life.’ Then he repeated his teachings in verse at skit night following the gate closing ceremony: Jam Master Ven Fresh (Greg) and MC Eric B(erman) taking it to the next level—check it out!
Just Say Yes
lyrics by Zenshin Greg Fain, Tassajara Tanto (Head of Practice)
Listen up—I got a story to tell,
loud and clear like the wake-up bell.
If nirvana is your goal,
It’s like climbing to the top of a 100 foot pole.
When you get up there if you stop,
It’s lonely at the top! Soooo….
Don’t sigh, don’t cough. Jump off!
Just say YES! And jump off from there!
Who are you then? Why even care?
Say yes to whatever life brings,
Say yes to the 10,000 things.
YES! say yes to your life,
Say yes to the struggle and strife.
Say yes to whatever arises,
Cause life will bring you lots of surprises.
I’m here to work with causes and conditions,
That’s how it is – that’s my practice position.
The reason we’re here, it’s very clear,
Bodhisattvas give the gift of non-fear!
So if you need a lift just know the fact is
I’m here to encourage you in your practice!
If you thought you were off to Rivendell
But now it feels like Avici Hell,
Let’s have a heart to heart, let’s talk about,
The worry and flurry, the corrosive doubt,
The things that hinder us day to day,
When we’re trying to practice the Buddha Way.
I’m not a complicated dude,
I’m just here to express my gratitude! And say YES!
And jump off from there!
Who are you then? Why even care?
Say yes to whatever life brings,
Say yes to the 10,000 things.
YES! say yes to your life,
Say yes to the struggle and strife.
Say yes to whatever arises,
Cause life will bring you lots of surprises.
