Charlotte Joko Beck said “Each moment, life as it is, the only teacher." And yet, there is also much potential and possibility in working with a Zen teacher. It is a unique and intentional relationship that often evolves over time.

Zen students are called to surrender to the guidance of the teacher, to let go of their own ideas and preferences, and to respect the teacher’s wisdom while still holding their own agency and developing confidence in their own practice and Buddha Nature.

The teacher serves as witness, mirror, and catalyst. If you bring a certain quality or sincerity and aspiration to the relationship, the teacher energy can help to activate and actualize awakening. This is a rare and precious thing that we can engage in whatever way we are each are called to in our practice.