most zen monks in the west only wear their robes for ceremonial purposes. but i've found that when i'm on my way to or from the zendo and wearing my robes, strangers in the street will approach me, wanting to talk. it's not usually that they're interested in buddhism, it's that they're lonely and feel isolated and need someone to talk to, and the robes give them an invitation, or maybe just an excuse, an icebreaker.

i live in one of the city's most deprived areas. loneliness is as dangerous as any virus, and i'm coming to think it's important for clergy of whatever religion to wear robes or habits when out and about, to show our availability to people in need of comfort.

#zen #buddhism #compassion #loneliness #isolation