“If we practise training the mind purely, we can turn these faults and imperfections of our times – which usually cause great difficulties and suffering – into causes of spiritual paths.” – Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, Universal Compassion
Every living being has the same basic wish – to be happy and to avoid suffering. Up until now, we have been trying hard to fulfill this wish by improving external conditions. However, even people who have it all often feel that there’s something missing. Our world is becoming more and more complicated, and this is making it harder and harder to control our mind. We need to learn how to train our mind. These classes will introduce the practices of training the mind in love, cherishing others, and compassion. These are supreme methods for developing a positive mind, even in the middle of challenging circumstances. Start at the beginning of the series if you can, but if you miss the beginning, then start when you are able.
Recommended reading: Universal Compassion by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. Download here – https://tharpa.com/us/universal-compassion.html
May 23 – Introduction to Buddhist Meditation: Training the Mind
May 30 – Spiritual Practice in a Material World: Transforming Impurities
June 6 – How to Lift People Up: Meditating on Equalizing Self and Others
June 13 – What’s Holding Us Back?: Contemplating the Dangers of Self-cherishing
June 20 – Kindness, Appreciation and Gratitude: Contemplating the Benefits of Cherishing Others
June 27 – Special Class: Meditating on Exchanging Self with Others
Special Purification & Healing Meditation Classes: Taking and Giving
Meditation classes with teachings by modern Buddhist teacher Rae Landers
Sundays, 11:00am-12:30pm, July 4-25 w/ Prayers for World Peace
In-person -or- Zoom livestream plus video replay option – Pre-registration requested
Cost: $12/person, members free
*Please note: We are offering these classes in person or via Zoom livestream. If you choose Zoom livestream, then after you submit payment, you will receive an email link to the meeting. This link is for your personal use only. Video recordings will also be available for 24 hours after each class*
“Compassion is the mother of all Buddhas, compassion is the most precious treasure of Bodhisattvas, compassion is the unseen friend of migrators; may I be protected by great compassion.” – Lama Tayang, Precious Crystal Rosary, quoted in Universal Compassion
We experience suffering on a daily basis. Sometimes it feels overwhelming. Sometimes we get sucked into it, becoming preoccupied and forgetting about others. In truth, the suffering we experience is insignificant when compared with the suffering of others. Remembering this is incredibly helpful in many different ways. These classes will introduce special meditations using the power of love and compassion to purify our mind and our karma. In this way, we can heal our mind and heart, and share everything that’s good with others in our life and our world.
Recommended reading: Universal Compassion by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. Download here – https://tharpa.com/us/universal-compassion.html
July 4 – Becoming Fearless: Great Compassion
July 11 – Purifying Negative Karma: Taking Away Suffering
July 18 – Sharing Happiness: Giving By Means of Love
July 25 – A Special Breathing Meditation: Taking and Giving
