This talk explores how practicing Right Speech can serve as a foundation for the entire eight-fold path, and a doorway to liberating insight. Particular emphasis is given to exploring the relationship between thoughts, speech, and the heart.
Learning to take care of this psycho-physical little system. Hopefully we learn to take care of the bigger systems we are part of-Systems of oppression included.
Introduction to practicing with Right Speech and overview of its relevance in spiritual practice. Talk ends with reflections on the triple gem (three refuges) and five precepts.
Vipallasa Sutta: Understanding perception and the ways in which we have errors in understanding of the three characteristics (anicca, anatta, dukkha) and asubha that keep us spinning in delusion. Doggies and empty boats.
This talk looks at how we are imprisoned by a limited sense of who we are, and how the wings of mindfulness and heartfulness enable us to realize the spirit that is our essence. We then look at how we can bring the wings of freedom to our engagement with others. The talk’s title is the name of a book written by Jarvis Masters, a deeply wise and inspiring African American man currently on death row at San Quentin prison.
