The subtle energies of practicing generosity include feelings of gratitude or respect, avoiding the pitfalls (e.g.) of a sense of obligation or comparison with others. This is right motivation. We note the beauty of our own heart, steady and receptive, void of ill will. (Les énergies subtiles de la pratique de la générosité incluent des sentiments de gratitude ou de respect, évitant les pièges (par exemple) d'un sentiment d'obligation ou de comparaison avec les autres. C'est la bonne motivation. Nous notons la beauté de notre propre cœur, stable et réceptif, dépourvu de mauvaise volonté.)

A brief introduction to generosity as the foundation of this path of practice, then exploring generosity as support for skillful mental qualities to arise

The thinking mind conceives, weaves into being other people and self; it’s very convincing. But there is a choice – you can refer to things, people, situations – or you can refer to where faith arises. Turn to that faith-vehicle and let the energies and the tonality of faith, generosity and virtue shape mind (or ‘heart’ citta). Then you find a proper basis for mindfulness.

Exploring how generosity is the life-blood of sangha, and how taking refuge in sangha can help strengthen generosity and provide an antidote to some of the toxic effects of capitalism

Sunday afternoon dharma talk on the treasure of generosity and interconnection in our lives (Susie) and the liberative process catalyzed by generosity (Jeanne).

Sunday morning instruction and meditation begins with generosity as a living liberation practice of non-clinging, and moves to a guided sit in generosity toward the self (Jeanne). This sit ends with guided instruction in walking with an attitude of offering generosity (Susie).

Saturday morning dharmette in gratitude and generosity as a reciprocal relationship, rather than a transactional relationship, followed by a guided meditation in the refuges as gratitude practices. (Susie) The sit ends with walking instructions and encouragement to sense the body as a support for the embodied gratitude of being present. (Jeanne)

Weaving together themes of dāna or generosity, mettā or kindness, and kalyanamitta or dharma friendship as supports for creating and maintaining a healthy sangha or community

The theme of mindfulness of breathing is to regulate so our bodily system comes into a moderated state. When heart-mind tunes into that it naturally gives rise to beneficial psychologies – simplicity, generosity, sympathy, warmth. When we begin to take in the qualities of our good actions, it helps to repair our nervous system so it’s no longer so tense, irritable, jumpy or feeling so guilty – things shift. That’s the process. Therefore, we should cultivate this way.