Guest speaker Shawn Nevins

Shawn Nevins

Guest speaker Shawn Nevins gave a talk at CSS on Sunday 5 October 2025 titled "Letters of Transmission: A Talk on Enlightenment." In this talk, Shawn discussed ways to stop spinning the story of self and explore the final answer to our deepest longing through sacred readings and guided meditation. Watch the recording of Shawn's talk at CSS.

Shawn "fell onto the spiritual path" in 1990, had an enlightenment experience in 1999, and has since then enjoyed making films, writing, and working with the TAT Foundation. His creative endeavors include the book Subtraction: The Simple Math of Enlightenment and the film Closer Than Close, an acclaimed documentary of Self-realization. His extensive collection of interviews and reviews of spiritual teachers and other resources can be found at the website SpiritualTeachers.org.

Transcending the Mind: Fall retreat with Matt Lowes and Todd

Standing:
Mark Hurwit, Jim Zajac, Jude Kieda, Raymond Blalock, Liz Blalock,
Sophia Malkasian, Jay McCandless, Marijke McCandless, Mora Fields, Rick Ahrens
Seated:
Steven Pologe, Jack Yousey, Matt Lowes, Todd Corbett,
Shirley Chase, Donald Burton

Matthew Lowes led the 2025 Fall retreat with Todd Corbett from September 12-19 at Alton L. Collins Retreat Center. In this seven-day silent residential retreat titled "Transcending the Mind" practitioners discovered that, through effort in practice, we clarify the mind. Thus clarified, without effort, Reality shines through.

How to Let Go: Fall Retreat Report, by Mark Hurwit

What follows was distilled out of my journaled thoughts and insights from the past Fall Retreat. I hope these notes convey some worthwhile insights.

It all started when Joel told us at a retreat many years ago that Western culture’s prominent impediment to awakening is our identification with “Doership.” I’ve definitely seen how very hard it can be to let go of those immediate, unconscious movements toward action whenever I want anything, no matter how small.

Whether it’s a narrator, a fixer or an improver, we have a hard time just leaving things as okay. “It” cannot feel complete or content without our participation, and so it entices us to follow its impulses to act or do, keeping us constantly busy. Ego/self/craving has no existence without something to do! The presence of the narrator is just one example from my meditation during the retreat. I sometimes notice how it’s just another example of automatic conditioning at play, trying to just do something (anything!) to feel needed. And my ceaseless frowning at it, thinking “WTF?!”, has not, as of yet, lessened its effects.

So, what to do? I’ve decided that what all my teachers have been telling me is true: I can’t do anything about habit energy other than just see it more and more clearly. And what am I watching for, exactly? Any sign of wanting to move in a particular direction. Because all this is so ensconced in me, it’s multi-layered and sometimes takes over very subtly and seductively— even just mentally while in meditation!

This process of liking or disliking something is the self in action. But I need to see this for what it is, in-the-moment, over and over again, like clouds obscuring the sun. And of course, this can also apply to desires for Awakening.

On another retreat, maybe ten years ago, Joel suddenly popped out specific instructions on how to actually wake up. He said that 95% of mysticism isn’t really all that mystical, but that last percent is, completely. He also described how to watch for the space between two thoughts, and then to just let go into that, to stop meditating and surrender. But he also said that he can’t (and, in fact, no one can) tell us how to do this.

At another earlier retreat, Joel was running us through looking for the self, asking what its qualities are — its shape, its color, its location. No one could, of course, come up with anything. Afterwards though, I went up to him during the break and told him I thought the self was “magnetic”. And he said “You’re right, it is; but it’s better to think of it as reflective. The basic idea is that you can’t bring something you want towards you by “pulling.” Instead, you have to attract it by being like it; it then “comes towards you” on its own; reflecting you back to yourself.

This struck me very strongly at the time, but I let it slide away (like so many other good teachings). But we have many times heard that “only Consciousness reveals Consciousness,” and I think that works in this context, too. So, at this retreat, I concluded: Something cannot find Nothing (that Grey Door). And in this case, “something” means: thoughts, craving, doing! I’d have to go at this another way.

So, this is basically where I think the “how to” resides. Getting deeper, or more still, or more spacious, or more aware, (or more anything) cannot be done; we cannot do it. Here, finally at the heart of the koan, Being must take the place of all thinking/doing/egoic activity (all activity, no matter subtle). If we want quiet, then BE quiet, whatever that is or however that intuitively feels inside.  There’s also that famous phrase, “Be the change you want to see.” But in this case, the seeing is not just in the world but in yourself!

So, I felt I had the right orientation going into those next days of meditation, and I learned something by putting it to the test: it takes a fair amount of stability for this “reflecting” to work.

Tuesday was my most “profound” day. I got fairly deep-in at one point — very quiet — and thought the time might have come to “let go”. But as I like to say, “Letting Go is not a verb,” because we can’t do it. The reason for that, though, is that in trying to let go of something, that thing is, in some way, desired by the self. So the effort to let go becomes, by definition, a product of craving. The self once again is unable to let go of itself.

But what about just letting go (not letting go of something) but just letting go, in the Being sense (which can’t really be put into words)? This was my direction, but I thought it was maybe still too strong, too “verby”. So I chose “to dissolve” instead. I would take that moment and just dissolve (or “evaporate”).

It was a worthy endeavor. Multiple times, I slowly found myself approaching what seemed like a kind of membrane. But every time I got a little closer, I’d “bounce off”. With every tangent thought (a relationship question with my brother, a travel planning issue, composing music in my head, wondering how I’d describe this on sharing day), the process of dissolution proved impervious to all “things”, all efforts (doings) of the mind. No matter how small or brief, each thought was reflected, but as a “particle” of self.

So even the (attempted) act of dissolving was still far too much. And so this was the thing: no effort could be that fine. I can in no way become honed enough. My small self is just as smart and sensitive and committed as I am. It really just can’t be done!

I was saved that day from what could’ve been a downward spiral by a sudden single thought, arriving by grace: “Gratitude.” I realized where I was and how grateful I was to even have the opportunity to make these inner journeys in comfort, surrounded by like-minded (or hearted) travelers. That the feeling came so easily I found myself grateful for as well.

And remembering Gratitude brought to mind an appreciation of how so much of our salvation is found in the Teachings (which Matt provided in abundance). Years ago, I received the idea of “ruling” or “guiding” ideas that, like gratitude, we might fall back on when some conceptual support might be needed. I also loved Matt’s reassurances throughout: that we can’t make a mistake; that all is perfect just as it is; that our whole life, our complete experience, is the Path; that our attention simply goes where it goes, no problem; that none of this is a problem. So just enjoy!  We were repeatedly encouraged and reminded to just continue on, our inquiry deepening in its own sweet time. How could it be any other way?

As various forms of self, craving and doing become increasingly subtle, I feel challenged sometimes to recognize their difference from true inner longing. When it’s unclear in the moment,  it’s better to veer to the “non-longing” side, aiming towards neutral watching rather than any potential doing. In the end, what arises is not the main thing. What matters is neutrality (equanimity), which is perhaps yet one more pointer towards Spaciousness. Increasingly, I want to be in remembrance of this all the time, throughout my life!

Yet, it is that longing to awaken that impels us forward. As the inner momentum built on regular meditation practice begins to act on its own, Surrender transforms from doing to Being. I feel it’s important to be able to trust in that special directedness by which we are moved without our willful action. Perhaps this is why Zen Master Dogen says that you turn the wheel of Dharma, and then let the Dharma turn you.

Spiritual Video Matinee Double Feature

A Saturday Spiritual Video Matinee was held at the CSS meeting hall on Saturday 11 October, 2025. This matinee featured two shorter videos. In the first video, Joel Morwood discusses what mystics say about stewardship of the natural world and responding to Earth's environmental crises. The second video, "The Economics of Happiness," discusses the importance of localizing our economic activities as a way to give our lives meaning and joy by increasing compassionate connection with the living world and one another and reducing our ecological footprint. After viewing these videos, there was a lively discussion over popcorn and other refreshments. Keep a lookout for upcoming Saturday video matinees!

Practicing Stewardship

by Genie Harden and Mark Hurwit

Genie Harden writes:

I practice stewardship by observing how I consume - anything/everything. Here are some of my practices:

1. Turning off all the electricity on our property at night. The water heaters and refrigerators are well insulated and we have no problems with hot water or food going off. Our well pump runs on electricity, so I like to keep a full glass of water available in case I want a drink. I use my cell phone (charged of course) for my flashlight for when I get up to use the bathroom in the middle of the night. Sometimes the house cools down, even quite a bit if you don't have insulation in your roof, but you get used to it.

2. I'm using gray water from my kitchen and shower to water our apple trees. I've recently learned that the trees will do fine if I buy a product called Oasis Dish Liquid for gray water systems. Oasis also makes laundry detergent and even dishwasher detergent for greywater systems. Instead of ingredients based on sodium they're based on potassium, which break down into important plant nutrients. The discharge is delivered through a garden hose, which I've only had to unclog once in the last year. My intention is to water ALL our landscaping, and most of our fruit trees, with greywater. It's a wonderful system.

3. When I feel I have to purchase household cleaners or cosmetics, I look them up in this database: Environmental Working Group (ewg.org). They rate the products according to health and environmental hazards, and give you plenty of information. They're famous for their annual sun screen lotion report.

It becomes so complicated to figure out each and every product you enjoy, that I find it easier (and far more fun) to simply delve into the local farm community. Most pleasant is going to your local farmers market and becoming familiar with the vendors and what they're offering. When possible, ask questions. No question is too ignorant - the farmers are dying to bring outsiders into their realm. If it's not a farmers market day, visit the Locally Grown Guide for more ideas. I know things cost more this way, but luckily we also have a precept of charity, which fits in perfectly. And no small farmers are getting rich out there, so don't fret!

4. Buying organic meat and dairy means that the animals have been fed organic feed, normally grown in China, as the US cannot meet the needs for feeding livestock organically. The certifying agencies are in the country of origin and the USDA negotiates terms with them taking into account the needs of big industries, and not the environment. Meaning, take the organic label with a grain of salt when buying organic meat and dairy. (Even if it says Oregon Tilth on it. ) If you're wondering about your favorite organic brand, go to the Cornucopia Institute (cornucopia.org) to see how it rates. I believe it is simply tested for residues of glyphosate.

Meat and dairy? We can all live with much less than we're used to, and yes it's available at the market. If we think of meat as a life "sacrificed" for us, we probably won't think of it so much as mindless entertainment (must have bacon for breakfast!) or to serve our selfish needs. Bring the treatment of the animals and your compassion into the forefront of your thoughts, and the temptations will naturally begin to subside. But life is what it is, and eating happens, so we make the most compassionate decisions we're capable of. I just assume if it's a commercial product, it's greenwashing. I wouldn't believe any of it. It's actually pretty simple.

5. Reusing bags and containers, buying in bulk has been going on for decades, but I still find it challenging to remember to keep my car stocked with clean containers and even cutlery and drink cups. Compostable cutlery is an environmental disaster. It comes from GMO corn. Imagine our best farmland going to disposable forks!

6. Eating locally grown food isn't for ordinary Americans. One has to be creative, resourceful, and enjoy preparing food. But if you're up for it, it's a freeing and empowering feeling that you'd be loathe to trade in for the convenient "what do I feel like eating tonight?" mentality.

Mark Hurwit writes:

Stewardship follow-up— what you can do

At the end of my offering in the previous newsletter on “what more we can do to support/live the 4th Precept,”  I offered to send more information to anyone interested… and several people took me up on it.  I’ve decided to keep this submission concise, and just provide a reference to what I think is one of the best one-stop-shops for all things forward-looking and seeking the best for all: Green America. This is a fantastic organization to support, and their quarterly magazine covers the gamut of areas worthy of more attention. Here are the main categories you’ll find on their website home page, with a lot of specifics included under each heading: Food / Finance / Labor / Social Justice / Green Living. I really recommend this one highly.

Lastly, I’ll connect you with just one more organization which offers a lot of the kinds of personal health and social-action steps that I value and try to incorporate into my life. The Weston A. Price Foundation  originated with research (beginning the middle of the last century) that revealed how much human disease and suffering developed after the introduction of industrialized (profit-driven) farming and food production practices. An entire movement has grown (of thousands of people around this country, but internationally as well), working against some of the worst corporate and governmental abuses of our food system, while modeling a much healthier and community-based way of living. Their quarterly journal is packed with amazing information (great essays, scientific data and anecdotes). Start by perusing their Health Topics page!

To the health thriving of all.

Illuminating Moments

by Merry Song

“Borrowed Light of the Sun” Photo by Merry Song

Here is a new, ongoing opportunity for you to share an illuminating moment with newsletter readers.  Sometimes an ordinary day can bring a small change that lights a candle in your mind.  Likewise, a day could bring you an unexpected calamity or challenge that ends up switching on the big inner spotlight.  Our second Selfless Precept of Self Discipline reminds us to regard each moment as a precious opportunity for spiritual practice, and as we observe those moments, we can be changed by sudden lightning in the heart and mind.

For a submission, write an episode that led you to an illuminating moment.  Try to be specific and show what happened.  Your submission must be at most 350 words. You can submit your offering using the submission form. Below is an example from my own life that shows how my self-centered desire for a cup of coffee during an 18-day pilgrimage in France opened up into a moment of joy and love with strangers.
-Merry Song

Love Discovery, by Merry Song

           Why did this have to be so hard? Niraja and I had been walking ten days already on the pilgrimage in France, through farmers’ fields, hamlets, and lonely roads on the GR65.  We had donned our red plastic rain ponchos and were slogging through puddles. I was grouchy. I hadn’t slept well at the noisy pilgrim’s hostel. All I wanted on this chilly, rainy morning was a cup of coffee.  Someone had posted a sign on the path showing a cup, the French word “chaud” (hot), and an arrow pointing ahead. Ahead was a tiny community, and I intended to find that coffee before the others arrived! We walked faster.

            But there were no cafes or stores, just a lane of quiet houses.  I was confused and angry.  It said hot drinks ahead! It must be here!

We walked up and down the lane; I wouldn’t give up. Why would someone put up that sign if there was no coffee? Pilgrims of different languages—Italian, German, Danish—started bunching up behind us.  They surely wanted coffee, too.

            I stared at each house.  I shifted my backpack and leaned into my hiking pole.

            Finally, a door opened. A stout woman with her dark hair wound up on top of her head came out and said something to me in indecipherable French. I was confused, desperate. Was there no coffee?

            She opened her garage which was filled with tools and toys.  There in the middle were a few chairs and a table.  The woman disappeared and came back with a steaming cup of milky coffee.  She gave it to me and then rushed back inside for more.

            Niraja and I sat at the table, wet and weeping, sharing the cup. The other pilgrims drew closer like curious deer.  “Come in!” I called, a surge of love for all of them swelling in my chest.  Soon we were a family, warm inside the garage, drinking cups of coffee and laughing over the simple things of life.  Although we could barely communicate in language, we loved each other. My desperate confusion had discovered joy. 

A Pink Moment, by Laura Betty

           Back in 1979, sitting in a coffee shop located here in Eugene, I was having tea with my partner.

           I was newly pregnant and Denny was the father. We were having a quiet conversation when the room was filled with a soft glow of pink light. As I looked around everyone appeared to be translucent and connected. It was a magical moment. I “knew” we were all really one. The moment felt like forever. But, of course it didn’t last.

           I asked Denny if he experienced the same sensation. He said no. I was sad that he didn’t.

           Then my thinking mind told me: It’s because I am pregnant.

Teachings and Practices in Andrea's Practitioners Group

by Andrea

Following are insights into Selfless Wakefulness, Ownerless Awareness, Centerless Awareness. You can make this reading a daily practice to transform your attention and point you to your infinite power of transcendence and possibility. Enjoy your practice! -Andrea

Without the fundamental truth of tenderness and kindness with our momentary minds experience with appearances, the doors of perception will not open to deeper insights and transcendence, and infinite possibilities will not present spontaneously. With aversion and clinging, wakefulness is not possible. If there is fixation or aversion or craving in the mind, there is no open awareness. Without acceptance of what we are experiencing in mind and body, there is no space to be found, which would illuminate insight and transcendence and allow progress on our path. With awareness of our reactions of grasping or aversion with phenomena, and the willingness to feel this immediacy, offer this as the Freedom of Liberating Awareness that clings to nothing as I, me or mine. Let it Be, Let if Flow, Let it come, Let it go. Abide in your true nature that is Open, Clear, Transparent, Aware, Free of Concept, opinion, beliefs, the womb of creation, the space of all possibility — The Great Sacred Mystery of Being.

Using passive voice, identify the veil/hindrance/defilement arising in experience such as "Anger being known" or "Anger being felt" instead of "I am angry." Or, "there is irritation," versus "I am irritated." De-condition the identity of a separate "I" in experience. This is a simple and profound shift in perceiving and thinking that is very powerful in undermining the false sense of I.

Don't aim for conceptual conclusions about anything on a relative level. There is no certainty in samsara. When we label it as soft, like a whisper, simply recognize what seems to be arising, and don't identify with it — don't get entangled in the content of the concept. There is no substance to our imaginary stories. Our experience is always shifting on multiple levels, and our recognizing will continually deepen and shed light. We can offer what we see or think, rather than identifying with it.

When investigating, look directly and Know the knowing. Be aware of awareness. Be aware that we are aware in every moment.

Inquiry and investigation will lead us deeper to a direct realization that there is no knower, no existent observer separate from the immediate experience of appearance in awareness. We are conditioned to add a separate imaginary knower or observer, but in reality awareness and appearance are indivisibly and simultaneously occurring. Indivisibly yet distinct. Knowing of Appearance are happening together. Then there may be a new appearance of reaction in the mind which is then discerned and accepted and offered.

There are always only six things that are ever happening, no matter how convoluted, confused, or entangled we are:
Hearing
Seeing
Smelling
Tasting
Tactile sensations
Thinking/interpreting

The big no.

We can practice "I don't need another cup of tea." Practice these little no's that aren't related to aversion, but rather, to freedom from craving. Allow the desire to present itself, and then practice "no, not necessary." This is the "no" that arises out of wisdom, versus out of aversion. These little "no's" to ever arising desire reveals a freedom that can be found in renunciation and freedom from craving in any moment we are relaxed and paying attention to our body and mind during craving and during the release of craving.

Don't entertain guilt or shame. Recognize it and offer it as a confused sense of ego/l.  We must discern between shame and guilt versus remorse and regret. Shame and guilt create a sense of an unworthy "I," whereas remorse and regret have to do with how we recognize that an action of body, speech or mind has caused myself or another suffering, and how we can abandon these unwholesome views and actions that would only cause more suffering. We learn from mistakes, but we don't learn from guilt and shame, which only recreate a false sense of self that is unworthy, broken, something wrong, not enough.

In the game of investigation — when naming, labeling, recognizing, discerning — keep an open mind as all is changing all the time. Emotions give rise to more confused thoughts, which give rise to more confused emotions, and so on. You can see how the process of confusion creates additional confusion in both emotion and thought.

The more subtle our attention and mindfulness become, the more words are no longer necessary. The more we use our clarity and attention to teach ourselves the dharma, the more our mind's habitual addiction to concepts and behind-the-scene narrative breaks down, because we're coming closer and closer to the Silence and Stillness that knows directly. Wisdom is becoming more direct, not needing conceptual echoes. As we refine our presence in profound simplicity knowing appearances that are continually shifting, our sense of awareness is revealing its unchanging nature of stillness, while all appearances are continuously and ceaselessly moving and changing. Simultaneously, movement is known in stillness and openness.

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