You Are Still Here: Zen Teachings of Kyogen Carlson

The late Roshi Kyogen Carlson taught and studied American Buddhism for forty-two years, modeling a pragmatic, applied approach to seeking enlightenment amid Western sensibilities. You are Still Here gathers essential wisdom from a lifetime of dharma talks, polished and edited by his long-time student Sallie Jiko Tisdale. Carlson emerged out of political and cultural changes in the late 1960s in Berkeley. The book shines a light on Carlson’s impact on the Zen Buddhist community, notably, his commitment to advancing social consciousness and action, interfaith dialogue, and championing the contributions of women to the Zen community.

This is a great read for both lifelong practitioners and those who are new to the concepts and applications of the American Zen tradition. The teachings focus on meditation, faith, and relationships, and are organized in seasons, underscoring impermanence. Written in a conversational way, the book offers insight into the daily lives of practitioners in the monastery, describing the purpose of important ceremonies.

As Buddhism is embodied in both principle and practice, Carlson encouraged lay practitioners to persist in their practice, to keep going. Seekers of the path to enlightenment will appreciate the collection of koans and anecdotes that are useful in making meaning of dukkha.