The purpose of the Santa Rosa Zen Group is to provide a context in which people can learn what it takes to expand compassion for themselves and others and wake up from the self-centered dream we all live in. The primary tool is meditation, but almost equal emphasis is given to how we can find clarity and equanimity within the high-speed confusion of everyday life.In order to live the more open and genuine life we all desire, the following qualities are emphasized:

Stillness: learning how to settle down in mind and body;

Perseverance: learning to stay with all the ups and downs of our lives;

Clear seeing: seeing through our conditioned beliefs and strategies;

Willingness: learning to acknowledge and embrace whatever life presents – including anger, fear, shame and confusion – as our opportunity to learn;

​Lovingkindness: learning to awaken to the lovingkindness that is the nature of our Being.

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