The Buddha valued "gladness connected with wholesome states." This is the first of two talks on the importance of inclining the mind toward happiness and joy as well as how to do it.
This talk continues the exploration of how the practice cultivates happiness and joy. Topics include mindfulness as appreciation, wonder, gratitude, bliss of blamelessness, letting go, mudita, friendship and liberation.
As we understand the power of thoughts to create our reality, we can empower those thoughts that inspire us and see the emptiness of those thoughts that don't serve. This is the key to manifesting our vision of awakening.
Life is a continual surprise. How can we hold unexpected challenges and ephemeral joys in a spirit of practice so that we meet experience with wisdom, equanimity and an open heart?
Why did the Buddha consider like-minded friendship "the whole of the holy life?" This talk focuses on the importance of developing a sense of community as a true support for our practice. Included are the Buddha's words on what constitutes a good friend.
The practice of appreciation is an exercise in mindfulness, openness of heart and wisdom. Whether experience is pleasant or unpleasant, inclining our minds toward appreciation allows us to open to our joys and sorrows as valuable gifts that make each moment come alive.
Why does generosity bring us joy? How can we consciously cultivate this wholesome habit that both acknowledges our interconnectedness and develops a heart that knows the power of letting go?
The experience of seeing the confusion in our minds as well as its unskillful expression in words and actions can be very humbling. How can we use our mistakes to deepen our practice and turn them into a noble humility that deepens our understanding and enriches our spiritual life?
Why do people go on intensive silent retreats? What is the process one goes through and how does it change us? This talk explores understanding how the retreat experience works?
