Retreat theme: clearing up the Four Distortions of Perception, or Vipallasas as they are known in Pali.
Seeing what is impermanent (anicca) as permanent (nicca ) Seeing what is painful (dukkha) as pleasant (sukha) Seeing what is without a self (anatta) as a self (atta) Seeing what is not beautiful (asubha) as beautiful (subha)
All we think about and project onto reality tends to be channeled through these misperceptions. As ‘business as usual’ is steadily eroding around us, we are called to navigate the world differently.
At an evolutionary threshold like this the Buddha's teachings are a formidable anchor to keep us grounded while our old narratives are dissolving, and we are urged to go deeper. Putting on the corrective lens of the Dharma - imminent, curious and discerning - we will contemplate a path to greater clarity, understanding and equanimity in our own lived experience, opening the door to our next steps. |