January 24, 2026
Practice Where You Are No matter how we show up, our practice is good enough.
In a recent episode of Tricycle Talks, Sharon A. Suh, a professor of theology and religious studies at Seattle University and the president of Sakyadhita International Association of Buddhist Women, argues that being a "bad Buddhist" really means being an authentic Buddhist. It’s about showing up as you are and giving what you can give. It’s in the chaos of life that our practice lives.
Reflecting on an interaction with feminist writer bell hooks at a Buddhism and feminism conference in 2006, Suh says she told hooks, “I don’t really consider myself a very good Buddhist because I have no time to meditate. I’ve got two little kids. I’m working nonstop." Suh continues, "[bell hooks] looked at me and said, ‘You know, all you need is one or two minutes. Maybe your practice is being with the kids, going through all of this struggle. That’s the practice. So why are you struggling to fit something into your already busy life when your busy life is where the dharma is?’”
Listen to the episode to hear more about what it means to Suh to be a “bad Buddhist,” the pitfalls of equating Buddhism primarily with meditation, and what she’s learned from bell hooks.
Also this week:
- Are We One, this month's Film Club feature by Dónal Ó Céilleachair, is an exploration of interfaith dialogue through the lens of American Catholic priest and Zen Master Robert Kennedy.
- Browse our updated Buddhism for Beginners resources for a comprehensive introduction to Buddhist history and traditions.
- A new Tricycle online course starts February 9! Learn more about The Path of Dharma Friendship and enjoy a free meditation from the course to see if it’s right for you.
| 
No comments:
Post a Comment