Pavement: Reflections on Mercy, Activism, and Doing Nothing for Peace

What will you do for peace? Will you march? Will you make people face the death and pain caused by war? Will you sit down on the sidewalk and be insulted, stared at, questioned and, in general, show love towards all things? Well, try to show love. Will, try to show love. Anyway, this is a small, nice book to read when you are in the need for some good old fashion philosophy and Buddhist wisdom. Great for the bus or for those crowded trains, when you need something to help you relax and question reality. Get out of the trenches people. Let down the shields. Open up and just try not too get so worked up. Remember, don't be sure about anything. And remember to bow.

You don't have to be a Buddhist to applaud Lin and his courage in "doing nothing" on the streets of Chico, CA. Short, warm hearted and sometimes frightening; this is a quick read that stays with you. Why would anyone would tell a 75 year old meditator to "f*** off" for just sitting on the sidewalk with his meditation cushion with a little sign that says "peace vigil"? Lin's little book doesn't give you an answer but it gets you thinking. And that's what his peace vigel is all about.

Lin Jensen is a gifted writer who shares his experience of open-heartedly taking action for peace. I feel inspired and comforted to know he is out there, every day, opening his heart, sitting on his cushion, and promoting peace in the best way he can. His willingness to share his struggles and challenges makes his efforts even more impressive, while also making them seem accessible and possible for the rest of us, despite all of our own challenges. Reading this book gave me a sense of lightness, at the same time that it highlighted the seriousness of our current world and the challenges we face. I recommend it highly and plan to buy it for the people in my life who matter most to me. Thank you Lin Jensen, for your efforts, and for your willingness to share them with all of us.