2. On Our Inner Voice, The World Is Telling Us, Trauma Can Become An Asset, Freedom Through Practice (#58)

Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - responds to questions from students in an inspiring manner based on his Zen practice and life experiences. He reminds the listener how to stay awake to life and understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind.
 
This episode was recorded during a weekly online meeting of questions & responses.

For more information: https://www.zaltho.org

If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question, please feel free to write to [email protected].

Book recommendations: 
- Bringing Meditation to Life - 108 Teachings on the Path of Zen Practice (Oakwood Publishing 2021)

- AT HELL'S GATE - A Soldier's Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala Publications 2003)

- On the Edges of Sleep: Poems of War and Memory (Oakwood Publishing 2024)

https://www.zaltho.org/books/

 If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you.
Questions and Time Stamps:

1:23
When a person gets killed who has done many terrible things, should one celebrate their death?
2:09

How do you differentiate the inner voice that gives good advice and the one that keeps one trapped in suffering?
2:34

When does it happen to you that you don't see what the world is telling you?
3:16

Would you talk about it or give an example of the decision that past trauma can become an asset?
5:11

What is the point to answer a person who always asks the same questions?
5:39

Did you do a specialized therapy to address the consequences of your mother’s violent behavior toward you?
7:25

Can competitiveness be a good thing or is it always best not to compare oneself with others?
8:24

Is part of the healing process to “re-feel” the feelings of the child that has been abused?
10:28

When the neighbor across the street verbally assaulted you, were there any feelings when you didn’t respond violently or agressively?
12:12

When you no longer have to react  the same way to certain events, isn’t that the freedom through practice?
12:45

Would you share your thoughts on the precept of not being stingy with the Dharma?
13:19

When I am asked to provide instructions on the form of meditation, should I always say yes no matter the circumstances
14:08

Do you think that it is important to make mistakes so we can develop ourselves?
14:37

Do you still repeat mistakes?
15:31

Are all practical things spiritual?
15:44

Is there a difference between mistakes and errors?
16:26

When you make a mistake, do you feel embarrassment, humiliation or shame?
16:45

How is it to be back at the Red Maple Zen Center in Italy?
17:47

The room that you are in looks like it is an ancient structure. Can you describe where you are physically?