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

By Lin Jensen

Book Overview

There's a war on--and Lin Jensen isn't gonna take it standing up. In 36 riveting scenes, Pavement shows how the Buddhist perspective can help us all, even in the toughest times.

Every day, Lin Jensen has gone down to the center of his small town of Chico, California, plopped down a meditation cushion, and sat "peace vigils" in protest of the US invasion of Iraq--his honest effort to change the world.

From his knee-level spot on the pavement, he has encountered a wonderful array of what Lin calls "uprights" a heart-breakingly generous homeless man who offers Lin his only possession; hostile passers-by who shout "F@#k you, Peace Wimp!"; "White Wolf," who punctuates every comment (always shouted!) with a sharp poke to Lin's chest; compassionate soldiers; and more--all amid rain and bright sun, exhaust fumes, and the scent of azaleas.

Jensen, the author who so moved readers with his acclaimed memoir Bad Dog!, here shares what sidewalk-dwelling has taught him about humility, generosity, and what it really means to love our neighbors. It's inspiring, good-humored reading--especially for anyone who might work or wish for change but doesn't want to be just spitting into the wind.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0861715225
• ISBN13: 9780861715220
• Release Date: March 2007
• Publisher: Wisdom Publications
• Length: 128 Pages
• Weight: 0.45 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 5.1" x 8.0"

Customer Reviews

Will you do 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.

Zazen Never Looked So Brave

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.

Beautiful and inspiring.

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.