For some, a time comes when regular sitting and engagement with the sangha naturally deepens into the desire for guidance from a teacher. This deepening can take the form of a formal student-teacher relationship.

What does it mean to become a student?

Anyone who attends the Center is welcome to participate fully in our sittings and to meet with our teacher in dokusan – a private discussion of practice and teachings. However, for some, formally becoming a student offers a way to strengthen their commitment to the path and more fully open to the teaching.

Becoming a student expresses a sincere aspiration for awakening and a willingness to be guided through the challenges and insights that arise in practice. It also signals mutual trust: a student entrusts their teacher with a more active role in their development, and the teacher commits more fully to the student’s journey.

This relationship is never personal or intimate in a conventional sense, it is a spiritual relationship grounded in honesty, respect, and shared intention. It is protected by the ethical standards and oversight policies of the Madison Zen Center.

How to Become a Student

1. Sit regularly at the Center
   Spend time with the sangha and become familiar with the style and rhythm of practice at MZC.
2. Meet with Sensei Rick in dokusan
   Bring your questions, your practice, and yourself.
3. When ready, express your interest
   Becoming a student is initiated by the student. If it feels like the right step, simply bring it up in dokusan.
4. Participate in a brief ceremony
   If both teacher and student agree to enter this relationship, a short private ceremony marks the beginning of formal study.

This step is never expected, and there is no pressure to make this commitment. If and when the relationship arises naturally, it can become a profound support for practice.

If you have questions or would like to explore becoming a student, reach out or bring it to dokusan.