Dear Clear Water Sangha,

I would like to echo the fine tribute to Ken, sent out by Jeff George and the board. As many of you are aware, we’ve known for a number of years that Ken was facing some serious health issues. Even so, the suddenness of his passing caught most of us off-guard. I learned of his death a few hours after he died, late Saturday night–the first night of our October seven-day sesshin. Not an easy night after that, but at the same time such a powerful beginning to the week of zazen.

Not surprisingly, a number of the people in sesshin also knew Ken, some had even attended a few of the many Possum Creek sesshin. And so that first morning of sesshin we focused our energies on him – I gave a short talk, and then we held a full memorial service. The final part, the return of merit intoned by Sunya, went as follows:

Faith in Buddha, Dharma, Sangha brings True Liberation –
We now return the merit of this memorial service to:
– Ken Rosen –
May his Dharma work continue!
May Buddhas and Bodhisattvas guide him along the Way
And may he and all beings realize Buddhahood!

Besides being a long-time student, Ken was a close brother in the dharma, and a dear, dear friend. His infinite kindness and dedication touched the hearts of so many of us, and I know that his wish would be that the inspiration of his life and practice would continue on through the lives of each one of us.

After our sesshin is over I’ll be working with Jeff and others to plan a program honoring Ken’s deep commitment to Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. There will be a chance for all of us to share remembrances, and to honor all that Ken has done over so many years for the Clear Water Sangha. Details will be posted, and our hope is that as many of you as possible will be able to attend.

In sorrow, and
With profound gratitude,

Lawson