Pema Chödrön writes: "It's not impermanence per se, or even knowing we're going to die, that is the cause of our suffering, the Buddha taught. Rather, it's our resistance to the fundamental uncertainty of our situation. Our discomfort arises from all of our efforts to put ground under our feet, to realize our dream of constant okayness. When we resist change, it's called suffering. But when we can completely let go and not struggle against it, when we can embrace the groundlessness of our situation and relax into its dynamic quality, that's called enlightenment, or awakening to our true nature, to our fundamental goodness." Let's investigate the underlying feeling of insecurity to see how it can be used as a path to real freedom.

This dhamma talk and Q&A was offered on March 9, 2024 for “How do I apply the Dhamma to THIS!?!”

Short Reflection & Guided Meditation | Earthworm Practice for the Anthropocene | Online Wednesday-Mornings

This meditation calls on the image and felt sense of a smile as we scan through the body, and invites a receptive and caring presence, as we open our attention to the changing flow of life. “Our freedom comes not from what is happening, but from how we are relating to it. See if you can relate with the spirit of ‘yes,’ allowing whatever arises to be here. And if it feels difficult, painful, then bringing some real kindness – a ‘yes’ with gentleness and kindness.” ~ Tara

How do we process and respond to increasing societal oppression and violence? What helps us transform the energies of fear, hatred and delusion? This talk offers ways we can draw on our spiritual path to steady our heart and engage with presence, wisdom and care.

Some of the hardest times to come up with the right words and the right attitude are when the topic at hand is really hot. Maybe it is when we feel there is something very important at stake. Maybe it is when something seems very wrong in the world: war, political strife, corruption, injustice. How can we use Right Speech in such circumstances? How can we express ourselves in ways that are truthful but do not widen the divide. How can we promote peace and mutual respect? How can we relate to others with very different views and values with honesty and skill? These are some of the areas we will explore, working with personal as well as societal examples. And, we will base our conversation on the Buddha's words and advice.

Some of the hardest times to come up with the right words and the right attitude are when the topic at hand is really hot. Maybe it is when we feel there is something very important at stake. Maybe it is when something seems very wrong in the world: war, political strife, corruption, injustice. How can we use Right Speech in such circumstances? How can we express ourselves in ways that are truthful but do not widen the divide. How can we promote peace and mutual respect? How can we relate to others with very different views and values with honesty and skill? These are some of the areas we will explore, working with personal as well as societal examples. And, we will base our conversation on the Buddha's words and advice.