Barefooted and naked of breast,
I mingle with the people
of the world.
My clothes are ragged and dust-laden,
and I am ever blissful.
I use no magic to extend my life;
Now, before me, the dead trees
become alive.
I have abandoned the whip and ropes

 
Commentary: Finally, the tenth picture shows the enlightened oxherd entering the town marketplace, doing all of the ordinary things that everyone else does. But because of his deep awareness everything he does is quite extraordinary. He does not retreat from the world but shares his enlightened existence with everyone around him. Not only does he lead fishmongers and innkeepers in the way of the Buddha but, because of his creative energy and the radiance of his life, even withered trees bloom.
 
The Ten Oxherding Pictures are a series of pictures and verses with commentary that are meant to show something of the spiritual journey of Zen.  The young oxherding boy goes from ignorance of the self, to mastering himself, to sharing his spiritual insights with the rest of the world.  Let me be clear: I am NOT enlightened, nor do I pretend to be!  My mind is such that the whip and rope are still very much needed.  But it is that last picture of the spiritually mature oxherder, now a full bodhisattva, an enlightened being who reenters the world of suffering to help others, that has inspired my article title for the Reporter.
           
My hope is that this space, along with the pulpit and other forms of teaching, will be a place where we can explore how to apply and live out our UU faith in the world of suffering and oppression.  Religion, far from being removed from the problems of everyday life, can offer broader perspectives and insights into common problems we all struggle with everyday.  This need not require one to become a “believer” – just a humble oxherder trying to make all beings happy and free from suffering. 
          
That is one of the many inspirations I have regarding ministry.  May it be so as we embark upon this journey together.  My first sermon is August 21!  I look forward to seeing many of you again in person.
 
May You Be Blessed Always,
Rev. Dr. Joshua Snyder