Right Here. Now What? | Sensei Sōen Michael Brunner | Hekigan-roku – Case 23

🧘 Episode Notes – Right Here. Now What?

Sensei Sōen Michael BrunnerHekigan-roku – Case 23: Hofuku’s Summit of Mystic Peak

In this talk, Sensei Sōen Michael Brunner guides us into the subtle terrain of Blue Cliff Record Case 23, where a seemingly simple exchange—“Right here is the summit of Mystic Peak” / “What a pity”—opens the entire question of realization, intention, and embodiment.

Drawing from the rich imagery of Hofuku, Chōkei, and Setchō’s commentary, this episode explores:

How conceptualizing awakening turns it into “smelly saltwater”

The essential role of great intention in true Zen practice

Why form doesn’t erase individuality—it reveals it

What it means to walk the path in your actual life, not in some idealized version

Sensei’s reflections connect the ancient case to daily practice, from Zoom calls to food pantries, from bowing in the zendo to ending an argument with your partner.

“You don’t need to act out the koan—you need to show up for your life.”

🔖 Mentioned in this episode:

Hekigan-roku (Blue Cliff Record), Case 23

Chōkei and Isan Reiyū

Suzuki Roshi on the power of form

The saltwater-in-a-jar metaphor

Anuttara-samyak-sambodhi and the true peak of practice

💬 Quotes to Take With You:

“The form takes care of the self-conscious mind. Then walking is just walking.”“Cherish your time. Cherish what is rising.”“Instead of bowing—we’re the ones who are bowed.”

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