“We can transcend our passions and focus on the journey toward our true selves. We can prioritize giving and a feeling of openness, shifting from a self-centered perspective to seeking the well-being of others,” writes Brazilian sangha member Sebastião Miranda.
As an alpine climber of the world’s highest peaks, and as a survivor of the depths of a life-threatening diagnosis, Matt Fioretti’s life story offers us a clear guide on how to turn the experience of awe into a pathway.Next in our interconnected series Be Wise Go Kind 2023: Awaken Awe, Mitra Mark Power will explore how the experience of awe is clearly evident in the story of Matt and deeply inspiring to all who have heard or read about it.
In the idealized sangha, everyone joyfully comes together and shares study and practice space. It is beautiful. However, what of the pain of community and the challenges we face together?” Stephanie Mikolaj asks. “Can there be a place for pain and conflict in this precious jewel, and can it in fact strengthen our bonds to one another?
“When we truly know that with every ending, there is also renewal, we begin to relax. Our minds become open to the process of change. We feel we can actually touch reality and are no longer afraid of death. We can learn to live well and fully now, with the understanding that death is not something apart from life.”Nalandabodhi New York offers an online series of highly interactive conversations about incorporating Buddhist teachings into living a more joyful life and experiencing a better death, drawing instructions from a variety of teachers, including Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche’s book Mind Beyond Death.
At first, turn away from non-virtue,
In the middle, dispel misconceptions of self,
Finally, go beyond all philosophical views—
One who understands this is wise indeed.
(Āryadeva, Four Hundred Verses, 8.15)Madhyamaka is the supreme view that goes beyond all views. Nalandabodhi Akasha offers a Path of Study Online Course to bring us closer to conceptual certainty and non-conceptual glimpses of understanding.
What is mind? How do we understand reality? How can we reduce the suffering of ourselves and other beings?Our local sangha, Nalandabodhi Seattle, will offer our Introduction to Buddhism Course, taking us into a cycle of teachings based on the fundamental discoveries of the Buddha. Please join us in exploring the practice of mindfulness and the meaning of the spiritual journey from a Buddhist perspective.
