Short talk followed by a guided meditation on working with vedana in the mind. How to practice with thoughts and their machinations in the third foundation of mindfulness from the Satipatthana Sutta.

Dharma Talk

When we bring mindfulness and non-identification to difficult mind states such as the hindrances they become less of an obstacle and more of doorway to freedom.

Retreat is an occasion in which to repair, reset. In terms of life and meditation practice. In this process, mindfulness is accompanied by atapi - ardour, keeping things fresh - and various forms of clear comprehension (sampajano): to sense what is appropriate and fitting. Through referring to what arises in terms of objects one cultivates comprehension of purpose: to know objects as they are, and not self. This is comprehension in terms of non-delusion. There is also comprehension in terms of context (gocara), both internal and. external. This cultivation brings stillness in the midst of conditions, and if we keep this going results build up. Through sustaining clear comprehension one realizes an openness that is stable, alert and all-encompassing

This talk explores sīla (moral conduct) as both foundation and ongoing practice in Buddhism. Devon emphasizes the paradox of sīla—it's both a starting point and something continuously cultivated in each moment. She discusses how integrity requires balancing self-compassion with engagement in the world, using the metaphor of mountain wildflowers that are both tender and strong. The talk highlights how sīla provides resilience during difficult times, allowing practitioners to remain connected to goodness while confronting suffering without bypassing or burning out.

This dhamma talk and Q&A was offered on February 8, 2025 for “How do I apply the Dhamma to THIS!?!” 00:00 - DHAMMA TALK 19:57 - Q&A

This dhamma talk, guided meditation, and Q&A was offered on February 8, 2025 for East Bay Dhamma 00:00 - MEDITATION 14:08 - DHAMMA TALK & Q&A