Our Values

We practice with the Precepts of a Zen Peacemaker

Three Treasures of a Zen Peacemaker
Recognizing my place in the Circle of Life, I take refuge in:

• Buddha, the oneness of life
• Dharma, the diversity of life
• Sangha, where oneness and diversity come together in harmony

Three Pure Precepts of a Zen Peacemaker
Taking refuge and entering the stream of engaged practice, I vow to:

• • First, do no harm: I vow not to harm others or myself, and to live in not knowing as the source of all manifestations.
  • Second, do good: I vow to bear witness to the joys and pain of all life, and clearly see what is, without attachment or judgment.
  • Third, do good for others: I vow to invite all hungry spirits into my life, and commit my energy and love to the healing of the earth, humanity, and all beings.

Three Tenets of a Zen Peacemaker
Taking refuge in The Three Treasures, I vow to live a life of:

• Not-Knowing, by giving up fixed ideas about ourselves and the universe
• Bearing Witness to the joy and suffering of the world
• Taking Action that arises from Not-Knowing and Bearing Witness

Ten Precepts of a Zen Peacemaker:
Embodying The Three Tenets, I practice these Precepts:

• Recognizing that I am not separate from all that is. This is the precept of Non-Killing.
• Being satisfied with what I have. This is the precept of Non-Stealing.
• Meeting the diversity of life with respect and dignity. This is the precept of Chaste Conduct.
• Listening and speaking from the heart. This is the precept of Non-Lying.
• Cultivating a mind that sees clearly. This is the precept of Not Being Ignorant.
• Bearing witness to the offering of each moment. This is the precept of Not Talking About Others’ Errors And Faults.
• Speaking what I perceive to be the truth. This is the precept of Not Elevating Myself And Blaming Others.
• Using all the ingredients of my life. This is the precept of Not Being Stingy.
• Bearing witness to emotions that arise. This is the precept of Not Holding On To Anger.
• Honoring my life as a Peacemaker. This is the precept of Not Disparaging The Three Treasures.

Living The Ten Precepts I commit to:

• A reverence for all life;
• A sustainable and ethical economy;
• Equal rights for all;
• Stewardship of the Earth.

The Four Great Bodhisattva Vows
Creations are numberless, I vow to serve them.
Delusions are inexhaustible, I vow to transform them.
Reality is boundless, I vow to perceive it.
The awakened way is unsurpassable, I vow to embody it.