Doubt Essays: Introduction

When I confessed to Sensei recently that I was having real doubts about Zen practice he laughed heartily and suggested writing about it. I followed his advice, but also felt the urge to talk things through with others in the Sangha. The idea emerged of presenting several views on this same topic together as a piece in the newsletter. The essays that follow were written separately by three of us who attended the same Intro Workshop in early 2000. We have talked briefly to each other about this idea and previewed each other’s words, but there was no collaboration beyond that and each is a very personal essay. Sensei says that it is not uncommon for people to leave Zen practice at a time of crisis and then feel embarrassed about returning. Some people never return, he says. It might be easier for us all to work through our doubts if we accept them as part of the journey. These essays are offered in that spirit. LMR