Guidelines for Council
The designated Leader will be responsible for setting up the circle and reiterating the Guidelines at each Council.
The Leader will sit in the Monitor position for zazen and signal the end of the second period with one hit on the bell. Then make the announcement: "Prepare for Council."
The Leader will remove the haishiki (central zabuton for Officiant's bows) and extinguish the candle on the altar. The zabutons should be arranged in a closer circle for Council. The striker for the bell can be placed in the center—this is the Talking Stick.
After a few minutes of zazen, the Leader should begin the by taking the Talking Stick and reminding everyone of the Guidelines for Council (and taking a turn to share). After speaking, the Talking Stick is returned to the center of the circle.
- Speak from the heart. This means to speak directly about your own experience.
- Listen from the heart. This means to listen to others with deep respect.
- No "cross talk." This means that the person who has the Talking Stick has the floor; others listen.
- Keep it lean. This means to keep what is shared relevant and immediate. In other words, no "life stories."
- Keep it confidential. This means that what is said in the circle does not go outside.
When everyone has had a chance to share, the Leader will pick up the striker and lead the Four Vows to close.
Sentient beings are numberless; I vow to save them
Desires are inexhaustible; I vow to put an end to them
The Dharmas are boundless; I vow to master them
The Buddha Way is unsurpassable; I vow to attain it
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