Passion is often considered to be an unspiritual quality, but if used wisely, actually is the basis of spiritual power. What are the four sources of passion that motivate our spiritual practice?
While Dharma practice takes courage to open to suffering, one also can bring a spirit of wonder and awe to the quality of investigation. We can open to the moment with interest, discovering reality in a fresh, new way.
Mindfulness as bare attention is supported and developed by bringing the content of clear comprehension, or full awareness, into practice. This includes clear comprehension of purpose, of suitability, of domain of meditation, and of reality.
The seven factors of enlightenment are being cultivated as we practice. This talk explores how they can be consciously brought into balance and how they work together.
The place of passion in practice is expressed in the Iddhipadas (Bases of Power): zeal, effort, love of Dharma and preciousness of this opportunity to practice.
The Buddha valued "gladness connected with wholesome states." This is the first of two talks on the importance of inclining the mind toward happiness and joy as well as how to do it.
This talk continues the exploration of how the practice cultivates happiness and joy. Topics include mindfulness as appreciation, wonder, gratitude, bliss of blamelessness, letting go, mudita, friendship and liberation.
As we understand the power of thoughts to create our reality, we can empower those thoughts that inspire us and see the emptiness of those thoughts that don't serve. This is the key to manifesting our vision of awakening.
