Using an easy being to cultivate Loving Kindness and then turning that caring heart to the difficulties of another and self.

From a base of loving kindness and compassion we can consciously aim our heart's attention into a practice of Forgiveness.

Bringing a tone of compassion to one's metta practice when encountering suffering in oneself or others

For the Buddha, practice was understood as involving three trainings, in wisdom, meditation, and ethics (sila). Ethics, typically under-emphasized in much of Western Buddhism, with sometimes clear negative consequences, had as its horizon helping others. The Buddha said: “Wander forth . . . for the welfare of the multitude, for the happiness of the multitude, out of compassion for the world.” The later emphasis on the bodhisattva develops this emphasis further. In this talk, we suggest a contemporary “Eightfold Path” for understanding and responding to the current difficult times in the society and world. It’s outlined in terms of three wisdom guidelines, two meditation guidelines, and three ethics guidelines. The talk is followed by discussion.

2025 E-BIPOC Retreat, day 5 (4th full day): guided meditation centering One’s heart-body-mind. suggested for experienced meditators only.

2025 E-BIPOC Retreat, day 4 (3rd full day): part 2 of the dharma talk titled: “ The Body of Emptiness, The Wings of Compassion and Wisdom”

2025 E-BIPOC Retreat, day 3 (2nd full day): bhavana, elements, sammā dițți, Cuļa Suññata Suta (MN 121)

Living in the forest, we are always aware of the trees. Patient, deep-rooted, even in fierce storms, they stand. So stand like the trees, committed and enduring. See the world with pure awareness, just the way it is. Living in a state of gratitude, we make peace with the divisiveness of this realm. We offer the blessing of our own inner harmony – the heart's compassionate, pure presence – to live and die in a state of grace, gratitude and love. Some will be blessed by that. But can we spread peace in the world without being peaceful ourselves?