As we enter the traditional times set aside to give thanks, participate in Rohatsu sesshins, and celebrate the nativity of Jesus, we also prepare to witness a year transformed. I enjoy New Years’ resolutions because I’m a natural-born list maker, but lately my Zen practice seems to be spoiling that for me. It becomes more and more apparent that, if I just sit in zazen, everything else should flow from that.
The restless list-maker and schedule planner in me is unwary of that kind of radical simplicity. But it’s really the only resolution I ever need to make: to sit. It’s a resolution that clears a lot of space, even if all that space can look a little intimidating. Hopefully I can realize there’s no need to fill every corner.
So, to sit. And to run. Period. After the Dallas White Rock Marathon in December, my running will simply be running. No starting line to toe, no finish line to strive for. For now at least, just running. I’m really looking forward to it.
I also will continue writing on my own, but I feel this blog has served its purpose, and I’ll delete it at the end of this year. Thanks for visiting it in any of its three incarnations over the past few years.
Sorry to hear that the blog is going away, but I see your point. Just run, and just sit. Thanks for all your thoughtful posts.
Ed–
I am very sorry you have made the decision to stop this blog. I have not made many comments, but I have truly enjoyed your writing, thoughts and perspectives on things–including just being. Of course, your decision is understandable, but that does not diminish the regret.
Not to go overboard here, but your blog has been a great motivation and has inspired me to seek the ultra distance, too. It shows what motivation and thought can do. I shall miss that!
I send my best wishes, for the new year and all it means to you. If you return to blogging, don’t forget to drop a line! Thank you, Ed–all the best.
Ed,
I mostly lurk here, but occasionally post a comment. Before I found this blog I searched for a long time to find a runner who also is a zen practitioner and had the skill to write about it. Thanks for making me think. You will be missed. Good luck with sitting, and running.
Mark
Thanks Ed, for all the time you’ve put into the words on this blog. It’s been a great inspiration for me, both in my running shoes and in getting me on the zafu. Namaste, Justin
I will miss this, too, Ed. You’re a wonderful writer. I don’t run, but you have inspired me as a writer. And in my sometimes struggling Zen practice. Perhaps we’ll cross again at MKZC or sesshin. Bows, Jessie
Thank all of you so much.