MBZC represents a paradox: a fairly strict Japanese-style Rinzai Zen monastery, located in laid-back, yet conservative, Southern California. However, for the 25 years of its existence, it has been successful, if success is measured by a continuous flow of students and a lack of active opposition to its presence in the community.

Of more concern at the moment is the future of MBZC. Never wealthy, there are pressures both financial and practical to consider. The Center loses money currently on its sesshins, and even with sales, outside work and donations, cannot afford to pay the permanent monks more than a $50./month stipend, which does not go far with inflation, particularly since winter clothes are needed even in Southern California when one lives at 6500'. Since these monks have all remained for a considerable period, and at the moment have no plans to leave, other concerns, such as money to travel home for visits, and funds to pay for health insurance are also pressing.

Besides these very real concerns, the Roshi's advancing age weighs even heavier. There has been concern for over a decade about his ability to hold up and continue, but with each passing year the concern increases, especially as the Roshi continues to refuse to name a successor. No one knows for certain what the future will bring, or if MBZC will continue into the twenty-first century.

However, even if MBZC ceases to exist, for a period of time it has set the example of how Zen could be done in America, one way that there could be heard one hand clapping in America.