I write books. I also sing the same teachings.
The Lotus Sutra Blues are songs from the William Altig Choir that carry the same Dharma as my books, in a different register. Below are five, each paired with the book or the idea it speaks to closest.
“The Sun Don’t Preach”
This one is the truest version of how I try to write and teach: not by force, not by performance, but by showing up steady and letting the light do its own work.
“The Day the Buddha Called My Name”
A retelling of Chapter Nine of the Lotus Sutra—the moment the Buddha promises that the highest awakening is open to everyone, not just a chosen few. This is the song behind The Awakened State.
“Welling Up From the Ground”
A retelling of Chapter Fifteen of the Lotus Sutra—the Bodhisattvas of the Earth rising up to meet a broken age. Salvation doesn’t come down from the clouds. It rises up from the ground you’re already standing on. This is the song behind Petals of Wisdom.
“Through What We Go Through”
A song about the long stretch—the seasons where you’re just trying to get to the other side of something hard. This is the song behind The Long Night’s Guide.
“The Strength of Kindness”
My most-listened-to song. A teaching carried on the wind, meant to reach whoever needs it.
If a song speaks to you, the book beside it will take you further into the same ground.
Thank you for listening.
Buddhist Wisdom for the Long Night 