Being Black: Zen and the Art of Living with Fearlessness and Grace (Compass)

"Honest, courageous... Williams has committed an act of love."—Alice Walker "A classic."—Jack Kornfield There truly is an art to being here in this world, and like any art, it can be mastered. In this elegant, practical book, Angel Kyodo Williams combines the universal wisdom of Buddhism with an inspirational call for self-acceptance and community empowerment. Written by a woman who grew up facing the challenges that confront African-Americans every day, Being Black teaches us how a "warrior spirit" of truth and responsibility can be developed into the foundation for real happiness and personal transformation. With her eloquent, hip, and honest perspective, Williams—a Zen priest, social activist, and entrepreneur—shares personal stories, time-tested teachings, and simple guidelines that invite readers of all faiths to step into the freedom of a life lived with fearlessness and grace. "Being Black has gained an enthusiastic following in African American and Zen communities. Angel Kyodo Williams shows black Americans how to develop a "warrior-spirit" of truth and responsibility that can lead to happiness and personal transformation. The principles and tools she offers provide a framework for addressing the African American community's unique worries, hopes, challenges, and expectations. Williams uses an eloquent, hip, and honest approach to share personal stories, time-tested teachings, and simple guidelines that invite readers of all faiths to discover how to step into the freedom of a life lived with fearlessness, grace, and fluidity."--Publisher's description ACKNOWLEDGMENTS 12 Introduction 20 Part I The Nature of Our Existence 30 1 Four Simple Truths 32 2 Three Wonderful Treasures 46 3 Three Serious Poisons 65 Part II Steps for Creating a Spiritual Life 78 4 Awakening the Warrior-Spirit 80 5 Laying Pure Foundation 105 6 Walking the Path 122 7 The Profound Act of Being Still 142 Part III Living Everyday with Fearlessness and Grace 160 8 Lovingkindness: Discovering Compassion 162 9 Mindfulness: Grace and Seeing Things As They Are 173 10 Fearlessness: Claiming Your Warrior-Spirit 185 11 Wake Up: A Call for Transformation 195 12 Suggestions for Further Study: Pointing the Way 201 INDEX 212