by Mary Ann | May 2, 2011 | Study Resources
Awakening is a process through which the mind clearly comprehends the stress that arises due to craving and clinging, that is, wanting pleasurable mind states, wanting to be rid of unpleasant mind states, and clinging to provisional, transient identifications in the mind that seem to define a permanent self, but are, in fact, just constructions of imagination. The underpinning of awakening is the development of ongoing self-awareness, typically best accomplished through intensive meditation retreat practice, accompanied by a commitment to daily meditation when not on retreat.
What I’m attempting to do here is to point out how the skills of introspection and impulse regulation developed during retreat experiences can be applied at home. (more…)
by Mary Ann | Apr 15, 2011 | Study Resources
PROVISIONAL ARISING OF SELFING MOMENTS by Peter Carlson
In Pali, this is termed paticcasamuppada; its traditional translation is dependent origination. I prefer to translate it as contingent provisional arising.
The word contingent is understood to mean that a moment of experience depends upon other co-occurring factors. The logic of contingency is as follows: if A occurs, B occurs; if A doesn’t occur, B doesn’t occur. In the incredible complexity of life, the amount of contingent variables far exceeds the number of letters in the alphabet!
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by Mary Ann | Mar 19, 2011 | Compassionate Action
Recent events in Japan remind us how fragile life can be at times and how connected we are to our brothers and sisters around the world. It’s a reminder of the truth of impermanence, the pain and suffering of the victims and their loved ones, and the empathic connection we share with others as part of the global community. Thich Nhat Hanh had the following to share on a Facebook posting on 3/15/11: (more…)
by Mary Ann | Mar 19, 2011 | Compassionate Action
By Tommy Harrison
According to the Buddha, the backdrop to all our experiences can be tied back to the Four Noble Truths. We suffer, there are reasons, there are ways to end it, and there’s a path that guides us on this journey. This is our shared human experience. How could this backdrop help one relate to the suffering experienced during the holidays? (more…)
by Mary Ann | Mar 1, 2011 | Study Resources
By Peter Carlson
The value of the Buddhist approach to life is threefold:
- There is a clear understanding of the way the mind works, either to create and sustain stressful states of mind or to alleviate that suffering.
- There is an ongoing valuing of harmlessness, compassion, generosity and tolerance.
- There is a high value placed on routinely training the mind through meditation.
Currently, the world we live in is very stressful. Despite all our creature comforts there is a persistent unsatisfactoriness looming. We have intervals that are comfortable and reassuring, followed by sleeplessness, restlessness, and stress-induced illnesses. (more…)