Archive of Talks

Peace begins with our own hearts and minds.  As we treat ourselves, so we treat the world. Continuing our study of the Brahma viharas, we’ll turn our attention to compassion, and specifically self compassion. Lorilee guided our reflections this week drawing on a dharma talk by Beth Sternlieb at Spirit Rock. You can listen to the… Read more

An awakening and opening of the heart is central to how many of us experience the contemplative path. Loving-kindness and compassion are often spoken about in Buddhism, but what about the other ways that love and even heartbreak are present and necessary on our path of awakening? This week, Tucker guided our reflections, drawing talks… Read more

Humility may seem like a subdued virtue, but exploring it in depth reveals the humor, the insight and the surprise that can come in discovering the subversive forces that alternately undermine and promote humility.  Eric guided our reflections this week, drawing on a talk by Cara Lai, offering fresh insights into this quality we are often… Read more

Equanimity may appear at the summit of the Seven Factors of Awakening, the Ten Paramis, and the Four Brahma Viharas, but it can prove essential, and attainable, right in the midst of everyday life.    Jackie, guided our investigation of Equanimity this week, drawing on her own experience and a talk by Jill Shepherd. A link… Read more

Our intentions align our interests, our focus, our efforts and our actions.  They can be felt in our bodies, emotions, thoughts, daily lives, and in our practice.  Clarifying our intentions is central to living a meaningful life.  Drawing on a talk by Brian LeSage and on the Five Mindfulness Trainings of Plum Village, Darryl guided our investigation of… Read more

Mudita is described as feeling an inner wellspring of joy, delighting in the positive experiences of others without jealousy or envy. It is the third of the four “divine abodes” or brahmaviharas, the highest qualities of the heart. It is described as always available, no matter what the circumstances may be.   However, how do we… Read more