Won Buddhism of Manhattan

Levees also referred to sometimes as “raised ground” are areas of land assembled to prevent flooding. Levees are also used to establish new areas for cultivation.
Shortly after the founding of what was to become Won Buddhism, Master Sotesan made a request of his followers that stands apart in the history of Buddhism. This request is unique in several ways and demonstrates sophistication in leadership and planning that illustrates how well Sotesan understood his followers, his era and what would lie ahead.

My first introduction to sameness and nothingness was at a retreat I attended in 2001when I realized that the pure emptiness of the sky was the same as I.

In completing an exercise that was assigned to the group, it became apparent that we were all the same the same as the rivers, grass, flowers, sun and hills, etc...  

I am still a beginner in my Buddhist path; therefore, my story is best suited for those who are just being introduced to Buddhism. You may have taken a class in eastern religion, overheard someone's conversation about the benefits of meditation, or by chance have found this newsletter in your hands and decided to read its contents.

 "Emptiness," is a word that we have all probably come across at one time or another. For each person, this term can mean something quite different. For some, it can mean "not having something." For others, it can be a word used to describe a feeling or an emotion that they may have. Though not always, usually, it is thought of in terms of negativity.