Finding points of commonality in our own lives with the life of the Buddha, then moving into relational practice exploring what motivated us to step out of the "palace of delusion"
The retreat theme acknowledges we need allies in cultivating awareness, something outside our normal self structure but available, in spite of the personality. Aspiration/ faith are the first of these.
The importance of compassion in the Buddhist path. Discussion of its relationship to Metta, and a description of its near and far enemies. Examples of its applicability including in the situation in Ukraine
Regarding the aggregates of existence (form; preferences; perceiving; mental activity; knowing) as areas we can open around. Shifting from identification and ownership to just happening activities for greater freedom and well-being.
