In this personal and enlightening collection of short essays, Irish Soto Zen priest Myozan Ian Kilroy describes how he came to practice Zen, introduces the basics of Zen philosophy, and recalls the challenges of establishing a Zen Buddhist community in Catholic-dominated Ireland. Along the way, he explores the rituals and practices that Zen brings to everyday life, from holidays to weddings to birth ceremonies to funerals. A former journalist, Rev. Myozan's lucid and entertaining storytelling style paints a clear picture of how Zen has adapted to the culture and traditions of Ireland.

Do Not Try to Become a Buddha: Practicing Zen Right Where You Are, Myozan Ian Kilroy, Wisdom Publications, Paperback, 328 pages, $24.95

Myozan Kodo Kilroy is a Soto Zen Buddhist priest and a Dharma Heir of Taigu Turlur, in the lineage of Nishijima Roshi and Rempo Niwa. Based in Dublin, Ireland, he leads the Zen Buddhism Ireland sangha, where he is the founding teacher. In 2016, he completed the Dharma Heritage Ceremony at the SZBA conference at Maple Lake, Minnesota. He is the founding President of the Irish Buddhist Union and represents Buddhism on the Dublin City Interfaith Forum. See zenbuddhism.ie for more.