Our deepest nature is compassionate, yet our habitual self-centeredness is an armoring that confines our heart. The Buddhist teachings free us to be of benefit to all those we touch.
This talk investigates the skillful means that help us open beyond our conditioned cocoon of thoughts and to realize the freshness, tenderness and boundlessness of our true nature.
Our conditioning to resist pain creates trance—we become identified as a small, victimized, threatened self. We have the capacity, through mindful, kind attention, to discover genuine freedom in the midst of pain.
The bodhisattva path arises out of a love for life. We awaken this love as we realize our belonging to our inner life, each other and the natual world.
Our human relationships give rise to pain and pleasure, fear, suffering and love. As we bring our experience into the light of mindful awareness, we awaken compassion and discover the truth of our connectedness.
Often without realizing it, painful emotions, like fear or anger give rise to the conviction that "something is wrong". When instead we receive our inner weather with an acceptance and wise attention, we reconnect with our national compassion and wholeness.
Intention shapes our reality and is an essential part of the Buddha's Eight-Fold Path. Explore how the practice of intention -- remembering what we cherish -- can energize and guide us on the spiritual path.
When desire unfolds into craving and addiction, it becomes the source of great suffering. This talk examines the nature of desire, and the attitudes and practices that allow us to relate to this energy with freedom. When regarded wisely, desire is the stream that returns us to the ocean of loving.
Week I - General Introduction
Mindfulness of the body and concentration on the breath adding mindfulness of sensation while encouraging opening to pleasure and pain.
