This talk explores the role of heart practices in general, and the brahma viharas in particular, in our overall dharma practice. When we ask, "Is insight enough?" our answer might depend on our relation to the bodhisattva ideal.
Connecting the Buddhist values of non-greed, non-hatred, and non-delusion with another spiritual axiom: "Love everyone, serve everyone, and remember God."
When we let go of our habitual strategies of greed and aversion, we discover in meditation a spaciousness that can be unsettling at first. As we explore the openness, we find our refuge in an awareness that is the very nature of the mind.
As we invite the qualities of generosity and gratitude into our lives, they help us to gladden our hearts and minds, becoming the seeds of joy in the journey of awakening.
Reflecting about the first day of retreat: common thoughts and experiences, remembering our potential for happiness, and the three characteristics (anicca, dukkha, anatta).
Opening retreat comments inviting yogis to use the retreat to examine their plans and expectations. Plus brief remarks regarding the retreat and the precepts as voluntary limitations to be seen as a vehicle toward our destination. Ajahns Amaro and Sundara.
What is mindfulness and what are the qualities that make mindfulness such a good friend to have? We discover the simplicity of mindfulness and how we can strengthen it in our practice.
There are some things in life we can do without. By understanding the power, practice and wisdom of renunciation, we discover the joy of simplicity and letting go.
Using the way of the Dharma—including the Four Noble Truths and foundations of mindfulness from the elders of the Forest for Retreat Practice—to nourish our own practice.
Most of us want to know the right answer to complex situations. This post-September 11th talk explores the value of letting go of prematurely trying to figure things out, and replace it with patiently listening inside to our wisest understandings and responses when they are ready to be heard.
Intention is the seed of kamma; when we consciously hold in our minds our highest aspirations, they inform our present moment decisions and give us courage and vision. In the light of awareness, the compassionate response shines forth as our natural response to life.
