Dhamma Talks
One Step Back
Tim introduces the Chan/Zen concept of "one step back." One step back is the place between "merging into" an object and running away from it, the place between reactivity and surpression. It's the place where we dynamically and mindfully encounter the world. Members...
Essential Mental Qualities
In this Dharma talk, Tommy and the Sangha explore the Buddha’s teachings on abiding in contemplation of the body, feelings, mind, and dhammas—diligent, clearly knowing, and mindful, free from desires and discontent in regard to this world. These are considered...
One Hundred Percent Human
Robert discusses what it means to be 100% human--to be fully awake to whatever arises within our experience.
Paddling Upstream
Kitty shares some thoughts on how we can relate to difficult times in our lives. She talks about how meditation practice can give us the stability that we need to make important changes or weather tough times.
The Banyan Deer
Judy looks at various "lists" within Buddhism, particularly the 5 precepts and the 10 Paramitas, and examines them within the context of the Jataka tale "The Banyan Deer".
Cultivating Metta for Ourselves
Tim explores the cultivation of metta, loving-kindness, for ourselves. The practice of metta meditation can provide a greater resilience against self-afflicting emotions, a sense of ease and happiness, and a foundation for selflessly loving others. (We're aware that...
What Was I Thinking? Peter’s 3 Month Retreat
This is the last dhamma dialogue that Peter will deliver before his 3 month retreat at the Forest Refuge in Massachusetts begins on September 1. The talk reviews the history and significant teachers he sat retreats with over the last 30 years, and Peter speculates...
A tea party for all….
Last week, Robert Lockridge shared thoughts related to our "shadowy" sides and how our practice helps us learn to befriend these states. In this week's Dharma talk, Tommy Harrison continues along these lines by sharing thoughts on what it would be like if we invited...
Sympathy for the Devil
Robert Lockridge presents "Sympathy for the Devil." The shadow side comes with being born into the human realm. How does Dharma practice work with Shadow?And how can we USE that?
Empirical Ethics
Peter continues discussion on "evidence-based" precepts. The Kalama Sutta reminds us that in order for the precepts to have an impact on our life, they must be validated within our personal experience. Peter encourages us to look closer at the concept of "doing harm"...
