Awaken Imagination: Compassion in Action
Tuesday, April 7th, 12:00pm US Eastern Time, ONLINE via Zoom
Join Sensei Courtney Michak of Flowing River Sangha in discussing imagination and wonder used as skillful means in navigating life’s path. Sensei will reflect on Zen topics such as impermanence, being with what life presents and compassion explored in part through the movie, Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory. If you wish, feel free to watch the 1971 Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory version with Gene Wilder although it is not necessary.
About the Speaker:
Sensei Courtney Michak is a novice Soto Zen priest and Sensei (teacher) in the White Plum Asanga. Courtney’s journey into meditation began in the 90’s with yoga practice. In 2019, she became a dharma holder by Sensei Zhi Sin Pollyann James, a Dharma Successor of Sr. Barbara Craig at Flowing River Sangha (FRS). In 2022, Courtney was installed as a teacher at FRS where she received the name Gessho, meaning a shining light in the darkness. In 2023, she completed The Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification Program facilitated by Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach. In February 2025, she was ordained (Shukke Tokudo) by Roshi Edward Sangetsu Sullivan of Red Rose Sangha. In addition to Flowing River Sangha, Courtney offers teachings at Morning Star Zendo, Red Rose Sangha, and Joyful Mind Sangha. Courtney also works full time as a licensed professional counselor at a mental health and substance use inpatient facility specializing in grief and trauma.
With gratitude,
The Zen Peacemakers Team


