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ABOUT
OUR MEETINGS
There
are four segments in each Tuesday night program: discussion, meditation,
tea and cookies, and prayer recitation. The first break to leave is approximately
one hour after the 7PM start. All segments are optional.
1.
DISCUSSION
(30-45 minutes)
As a practical
approach to living and loving, Buddhism provides us with excellent
observations on why we suffer emotionally and gives us wise recommendations
on how to remove the obstacles to our happiness.
Each
discussion begins with an introduction of the night's topic and the reading
of a passage from commentary on the Buddha's teachings. Following that
is an open forum where all are invited to share their own experiences
the topic as they relate to everyday life.
Examples
of topics are loving-kindness, the importance of teachers,
harmful actions, and the liberation of the mind through virtuous activity.
The
talks are poignant, insightful, and often funny as we share our struggles
and insights.
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2.
MEDITATION (30
minutes)
Buddhism
gives us many tools to train and empower the mind. They
take two forms-- focus and analysis. Focus involves concentration
on a single object or idea while blocking out all other considerations.
Analysis involves exploration of and reflection on a subject on
a personal and universal level. In either case deep realizations
are possible.
During
the nightly "sits" we explore different techniques so
that each person can find the best fit for his or her self-exploration.
Many techniques eventually result in enlightenment, and all quickly
become beneficial if the intent, discipline, and dedication are
there.
3.
TEA AND COOKIES (20
minutes)
After
meditation is a tea and cookie break for all to connect and "shoot
the breeze." You'll find an interesting and fun crew
here.
4.
PRAYER RECITATION
(30 minutes)
Each spoken word has an energetic aspect that resonates
within the speaker as well as the spoken-to. For centuries Tibetans
have used prayer recitation as an extremely powerful and liberating
way of connecting with our inherent Buddha nature. During our 30
minute prayer recitation we chant specific practices from sacred
Tibetan texts. Always delivered in the spirit of love and compassion
for others, these prayers create great benefits for both
the speaker and the recipient.
This
practice is called Ngondro.
Interspersed
between prayers are short meditations for us to connect with the
radiance of our beloved teachers.
WHAT
TO BRING
The only thing you may want to
bring is a meditation cushion if you would like to use one. However,
there are plenty of chairs.
PROTOCOL
In keeping with
the concept of relaxation as a Buddhist end and means, we encourage
you to mix and mingle-- or not- as you see fit. In the meditation
room, however, we ask that you not converse before the meeting.
Also, we ask
that those sitting on cushions do not point their feet towards the
altar.
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