by Peter Carlson | Mar 15, 2012 | Listen to Dharma Talks
Continuing the discussions on how to bring the ancient wisdom of Buddhism to contemporary life, Peter read some excerpts from the suttas to describe what the Buddha taught regarding the acquiring of wealth and how to wisely make use of it. The example of the wealthy merchant Sudatta, commonly named Anathapindika was discussed as an example of wise stewardship of wealth. We then talked of how our meditation practice can be effectively applied to the temptations of this consumerist culture. The topic of voluntary simplicity was introduced, as Duane Elgin spoke recently at Rollins College about cultural transformation.
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by Peter Carlson | Mar 8, 2012 | Listen to Dharma Talks
Continuing the discussion of Right Livelihood as manifesting in a culture much more complex than what the Buddha knew, this dialogue focuses on how relationship dynamics relate to the three characteristics the Buddha emphasized, that is, impermanence, dissatisfaction and interdependence. Modern research regarding attachment security and how levels of anxious arousal degrade a couple’s ability to negotiate conflict was explored. We also discussed modern relational psychoanalysis as related to mutual interpersonal influence.
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by Peter Carlson | Mar 1, 2012 | Listen to Dharma Talks
In this dialogue, we explored the distractions that interfere with regular meditation practice, contrasted with the opportunities that are also present in our time to deeply practice and understand the liberating teachings of the Buddha. The practice of Right Livelihood was renamed “Right Lifestyle” to reflect the increasing complexity of current culture, and that the goal of spiritual practice is living a wholesome life.
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by Peter Carlson | Feb 23, 2012 | Listen to Dharma Talks
Continuing the exploration of how to increase the relevance of Buddhist wisdom in our era, this discussion explored the relationship between the concept of kamma (karma) and action. Emphasis was placed on using mindfulness to restrain impulsive action in order to promote behavior that cultivates kindness and compassion. This was related to current personal, cultural and spiritual conditions. This sets a foundation for thorough exploration of Right Livelihood in the next few talks.
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by Peter Carlson | Feb 17, 2012 | Listen to Dharma Talks
This discussion reviewed classic Buddhist Suttas to describe the qualities of Right Speech and some insights from modern psychology that support the development of virtue. This talk should be integrated with the previously recorded discussions on the value of virtue and effective listening.
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