Maggie Gluek reminds us that in the very midst of suffering, of difficulty, lies the doorway to freedom. Right here. In the ordinary we find the extraordinary. This insight comes from Xinghua, 9^th century teacher in the Linji tradition.

A few centuries on in the same lineage, Miaodao reassures us of who we truly are. And in her person, denies divisive patriarchy. Finally, there’s Linji himself, presenting his exquisite dharma of refuge.

Maggie Gluek, roshi gave this talk at the August Zazenkai 2026 at the Annandale zendo.