Living Zen Life

Studying self is a troubling task 
bringing to mind what seems better to ignore
having ignored for so long
habits of self and mind etched as grooves 
in a long-playing record
whose familiar and discouraging tunes
won't stop playing.

While walking a lovely park
under tall trees beside a brilliant shine of water
where my train of thoughts seemed out of place
dwelling as they were on habits and energies 
that have long defeated my better nature
I allowed my reflections and sensations to arise
recognizing them as they came.

Recognition. Could Dogen's "study" be so simple?
To recognize. Allow what is to be seen and
without attempting to deny or ignore
forgive with a divine absolution?
For my ways began as impulses to help me along
born when I was very young
when as yet I had no way to understand.