The talk begins with the stories and teachings of the Thai Forest meditation masters, and continues with personal stories and the teaching of 'taking the one seat'.
How to work with hindrances, pleasant and unpleasant, and allow the knowing quality to shine forth; 'sitting in the center' of all things.
A description of what makes concentration Wise concentration. How it fits into and supports vipassana practice. A description of the the two major methods of cultivating shamatha.
Using stories from the time of the Buddha to modern day, the talk takes us on a tour of the 7 factors: mindfulness, investigation, energy, joy, calm, concentration and equanimity; in their ordinary and extraordinary aspects.
The tour includes "side trips" to explore the 4 Noble Truths, the 4 Wise Efforts and many practical techniques.
The hindrances are not enemies to be pushed aside. Their deepest intention is to protect us...albeit in misguided ways. Attending and befriending these energies is the pathway to stronger concentration and internal healing.
