Mindfulness through poetry: Buddhism and haiku

coolness—
the sound of the bell
as it leaves the bell
Yosa Buson (1716-1784)

Poetry can be a way of paying attention to the world and experiencing the interdependence in all things. Join haiku poet Ryland Shengzhi Li as he shares how reading and writing haiku can be a spiritual practice. We will read and appreciate traditional and contemporary haiku poems, and explore how they embody Buddhist teachings such as mindfulness, concentration, and emptiness. The event is open to all interested in poetry, mindfulness, or both. No prior experience or poetic talent is required to enjoy the event!

Date: Sunday, October 16

Time: 5-6:30pm PT (8-9:30pm ET)

Bio: Ryland Shengzhi Li is a poet and environmental lawyer living in Northern Virginia, USA. Poetry teaches Ryland how to pay attention and to see the beauty and interdependence of all things. Ryland's work has been published in Frogpond, Modern Haiku, Ribbons, Presence, and other journals. He is a member of Towpath Haiku. In his free time, Ryland enjoys being in nature, practicing mindfulness meditation, and learning new things.