From Strands and Why my Zen practice was in the world

Once we have established the clarity that comes from stillness and study, we can begin to see how to prepare the third course, which is livelihood. This is the course that sustains us in the physical world. It is the course of work and business—the meat and potatoes. Taking care of ourselves and making a living in the world are necessary and important for all of us, no matter how “spiritual” we may think we are.

From Instructions to the Cook by Bernard Glassman and Rick Fields

List of all my jobs

Rock bands

Stagehand

Ingleside

Hathaway

RPS

Avnet

Essential Systems Group

Elementary school teacher

High school librarian

Richness

The ratna family exudes a golden yellow energy that encompasses and enriches everything. Ratna energy displays equanimity and satisfaction. When people manifest the wisdom aspect of ratna, they are expansive, resourceful, hospitable and appreciative. But ratna can also turn into greedy territoriality and puffed-up pride. When people manifest the neurotic quality of ratna, they can be arrogant, ostentatious, oppressive and emotionally needy.

From “The Five Buddha Families” by Irini Rockwell, Lion’s Roar online, September 5, 2018