Shinge Roshi
Syracuse, NY
Roshi Shinge shares how an unexpected moment of awakening led her from the arts into a lifetime of Zen practice. In this in-depth interview, she explores the transformative power of zazen, koan practice, sesshin, and the indispensable role of teacher and sangha. Drawing from decades of training, Shinge explains why Zen is not about comfort or self-improvement, but about meeting reality directly, cultivating discipline, and integrating awareness into every aspect of daily life. Her insights offer a timeless perspective on how traditional Zen practice remains profoundly relevant in today’s distracted world.
Background
Shinge, formerly known as Shinji, shares her transformative journey at the Zen Center of Syracuse. Initially drawn to the practice intuitively, she recounts sitting under a tree, embracing the present moment, and experiencing a profound shift in her perspective. Her connection with Zen and the teachings of the Buddha resonates deeply, providing a context for her spiritual experiences. Despite being immersed in the art world as a painter and critic, Shinge yearns for a more formal engagement with practice, leading her to the Zen Studies Society in New York City and her first teacher. Emphasizing the significance of a formal connection with a teacher, she expresses the ineffable nature of the Dharma and the shared pursuit of understanding the mystery that Buddhism presents. Shinge, now Raquel Sherry, invites others to embrace the enigmatic nature of Buddhism rather than demystify it, fostering a sense of shared exploration and depth in the spiritual journey.
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