The challenge of dukkha. Without Mara, no Buddha.
Path Activity illuminates the hindrances
Without hindrance there’s no path
That which knows desire and aversion is not desire & aversion
‘I Know You Mara’
This teaching describes the running of psycho-somatic ‘programs’ (saṇkhārā ) – in terms of those that are default and those we can intentionally induce. In this way, in meditation, we develop skills that can change our psychological patterns. The method is: first step back from the torrent of mind; then, cultivate enlightenment factors.
A central attitude of dharma practice is learning to open to experience instead of the typical contraction of grasping at pleasant or aversion towards unpleasant. Qualitites of opening include forgiveness, patience, sense of humor, presence and loving kindness are explored.
The heavenly messengers that set the Buddha on his quest
The Buddha’s early struggle and discovery of the middle way
The First Jhana and simile of the Bathman’s Apprentice
Citt’ekaggata – A unified heart suffused with well being
Stories about wisdom - how knowing profoundly that everything is changing, that our experience is created by myriad factors beyond our control, that acceptance and compassion create a peaceful mind - and how mindfulness creates that wisdom - paying attention
