Zen Center in Madison, WI

When we visited the Zen Center in Madison, WI, I wasn't sure what to expect. Our professor had told us not to expect much in the way of ornamental things or decorations, but I think we were all pleasantly surprised. (It was better than the Mosque.)

The members of the center wore grey robes with brown aprons. The apprentices had shorter robes, and the more advanced members of the center wore floor-length robes.

I thought the members of the center were very kind and inviting to us, and our group that night was very large, probably over 30 people. They said they usually have a very small group, so this was a change for them too.

We all sat in a circle in their meditation room, and first a member of the center lit candles on the small altar and bowed to the statue of Buddha on it. Next, we participated in a short chanting meditation session and then a 10-minute silent meditation session. I was really surprised by the way we were instructed to keep our eyes open during the silent meditation. It was really hard for me to, and I still found myself closing my eyes once in a while. We weren't supposed to look at anyone else, but at the floor in front of where we were seated.

I really liked the meditation session. It's something I can see myself "getting into" at some point in my life, in that way or through yoga. As a side note, it must be nice to be able to spend 25 minutes a day just being quiet and being with yourself. I'm not sure where I'd squeeze it in... although you always make time for what's important. :)