Practice Day Jan 17, for Mitras and Order Members
Staying Present to Pain, Saturday Jan 17, 10am to 4pm, with Jayachitta
In these uncertain times, how can we remain open and become still when we are truly aware of the crises around us? What can young people do, without shutting down or getting overwhelmed, to fully be a part of this world, with all the joy and pain?
Tonglen is a meditation practice centered around compassion in response to the sufferings of the world. The word tonglen; means “to send out and to receive“. The practice is closely related to the training of the Bodhisattva, whose heart opens unconditionally to all life and all living beings.
All sentient beings without exception have bodhichitta, which is the inherent tenderness of the heart, its natural tendency to love and care for others. But over time, in order to shield ourselves from feeling pain and discomfort, we have erected solid barriers that cover up our
tenderness and vulnerability. As a result, we often experience alienation, anger, aggression, and a loss of meaning in our lives–both individually and on a global scale. Somehow, in the pursuit of happiness, we have unwittingly created greater suffering for ourselves.
In tonglen practice, instead of running from pain and discomfort, we acknowledge them and own them fully. Instead of dwelling on our own problems, we put ourselves in other people’s shoes and appreciate our shared humanity. Then the barriers start to dissolve, our hearts and minds begin to open. (from Tonglen: The Path of Transformation, by Pema Chödrön)
This is an opportunity to meet and to research how to be present with the many crises in this world, without shutting down, or getting overwhelmed. How can we be fully present here in this moment, and experience that we too are a part of the
world?
This day retreat is an introduction to Tonglen’s practice in a form that involves the body and voice. We will be using movement improvisation and meditation. You can expect to experience joy on this event!
This is part of the Rainy Season Retreat for Core Sangha.
Donations
To help cover our January expenses, we suggest a contribution of $50–$100, or whatever you can comfortably offer. Every gift helps sustain the sangha and makes these programs possible.
You can donate below when you register for this event, or at the door, or make a one-time donation. (Here are the methods.) Thank you!
We’ll also invite dana for our visiting teacher. As always, our teachers offer their teachings freely, and your generosity supports them in being able to do so.