When we embrace a practice like Zen, we realize how difficult it can be to stay on a path that is so radically different from how we have been conditioned to show up. Deep inside, we know that we are not truly being our authentic selves and we consciously decide to search for something that can lead us to be who we naturally are. This practice is not for our personal development or growth. However, that is something that naturally happens. This practice offers the opportunity to show up in the world the way we are truly meant to, and when we do this, we are transformed and liberated.

As human beings, we all wish for happiness and peace in our lives, and we wish not to suffer. Yet, we experience so much sorrow, discontent, and suffering, and we are often left feeling hopeless or helpless, unable to comprehend this suffering. The Buddha's teachings are about liberation from suffering. But what does it really mean to be liberated? Perhaps the fundamental obstacle is that we do not really understand our suffering, nor how to truly cultivate happiness. This evening, we will look at suffering, happiness, peace, and liberation - how to see them more clearly.

The Platform Sutra of Hui-Neng, the sixth patriarch of Chinese Zen is one of the most influential texts of Chan Buddhism. According to Hui-Neng, Buddha nature is the true nature of all beings. We therefore don't need to purify our minds, rather we need to shift our perspective so we can see our true nature. Hui-Neng was an illiterate woodcutter who attained enlightenment, and who went on to demonstrate the depth and clarity of this insight. His example has demonstrated to generations of Zen students and spiritual seekers that awakening is attainable in this lifetime regardless of education or social standing.