You Are Still Here

The first collection of dharma talks from esteemed Zen Buddhist priest Kyogen Carlson.

"There's so much to learn and so much to know. It's good to keep moving forward. And yet whatever we have is, in a very profound way, absolutely complete and always enough."--Kyogen Carlson

Kyogen Carlson (1948-2014) was a Soto Zen priest whose writings, teachings, and commitment to interfaith dialogue supported and inspired Buddhist, Christian, and other spiritual practitioners. Set to the rhythm of the seasons, You Are Still Here presents a wealth of Carlson's Zen teachings culled from decades of his talks. Illuminating the key elements of contemporary Zen practice, the book covers the experience of zazen meditation; the pitfalls and intimacies of the teacher-student relationship and of sangha life; the role of community life in personal practice; and the importance of interfaith dialogue reaching across political lines. Carlson's teachings also underscore his commitment to lay Buddhist practice and women's lineages, both significant contributions to American Buddhism.

All of Carlson's talks have been carefully edited by Sallie Jiko Tisdale, respected writer and senior student to Carlson before his passing. The meaning and importance of Carlson's teachings have been preserved through Tisdale's expert edits and explained in the introductions she has contributed to the volume and each of the book's sections. This collection of dharma talks shine with Carlson's honesty, humor, and conviction on the Zen path.