A small gathering for shared presence
Simple ways to pause together
“Originally there is not a single thing”
from the Platform Sutra of the Sixth Patriarch,
Huineng (638–713)
The Story and Meaning Behind The Calligraphy
This line comes from a pivotal moment in the Platform Sutra, when the Fifth Patriarch, Hongren, invited his disciples to express their understanding of the Way in verse.
The head monk, Shenxiu, wrote of constant practice, of polishing the mirror of the mind so that no dust would settle.
The body is the tree of enlightenment,
The mind is like a clear mirror-stand
Polish it diligently time and again
Not letting it gather dust
But a rice-pounding laborer named Hui Neng heard this verse recited and responded with his own, declaring that in truth there is no mirror and no dust to wipe away.
Enlightenment originally has no tree,
And a clear mirror is not a stand.
Originally there’s not a single thing—
Where can dust be attracted?
Hui Neng’s verse revealed a direct seeing into the nature of mind, pure, empty, already free.
With it, he was recognized as the Sixth Patriarch of Chan (Zen), and his teaching later became known as the Platform Sutra, one of the most important texts in Chinese Buddhism.
The calligraphy shown here, written by a monastic friend of Sotoshu, expresses that same insight in brush and ink, simple, direct, and empty of ornament.
What Is Effortlessly Aware?
Effortlessly Aware is a small, steady gathering for people drawn to presence, honesty, and quiet connection. We meet a few times each month in local parks. Simple. Informal. Open.
This isn’t a place to network or perform. It isn’t about being smart or saying the right thing. It is a space to show up fully and reflect without needing to impress anyone.
We draw inspiration from Zen, Taoism, Ramana Maharshi, Silent Illumination, and other contemplative paths. You do not need to know any of that to come. If you are tired of shallow conversations and hungry for something real, you are welcome.
We walk together. We sit together. We let the simple act of showing up change us quietly.
I started this because I needed it too. It is hard to meet people who live from this place, who want support and friendship that go beyond advice and pleasantries. This group is a way for those on the path, whether just starting or long underway, to find each other.
We gather in parks around Redmond, Bellevue, and the Eastside. All are welcome. You do not need to stay long. You do not need to speak. Come as you are.
We are not here to teach.
We are here to return, together, to what is already here.