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 of OIMG follow up with experiences within their own lives in which they’ve taken one step back.
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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 essential mental qualities.
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This week begins the participation of various members of the Teacher’s Mentoring Group who were mentioned and introduced over the last few meetings. Kitty described the significant benefits she noted as she became more involved with Buddhist teachings and began a daily meditation practice. She called on others in the group to share their beneficial experiences with meditation, drawing an enthusiastic response.
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Following on last week’s dialogue, the Teacher’s Mentoring Group, which has been meeting weekly for several months, introduced themselves and provided comments about their current studies of Buddhist principles and practices. These individuals’ commitments to their spiritual path warrants the opportunity to share what they’ve gained from the practice. Peter commented on the reality that each generation must revisit and make real in their own lived experience the wisdom that the Buddha’s teachings offered, and that his teaching over the last 20 years or so played a significant role in deepening his practice. These teachers, with Peter’s support, will be offering dhamma dialogues off and on during the summer, and will be delivering the dhamma talks while he’s away on his three month retreat this Fall. Next week, Kitty will lead a dialogue about how essential regular sitting practice has been for her spiritual development, and the week after that Rose will facilitate exploring the value of taking refuge, especially as related to Sangha.
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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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