Archive of Talks

The Buddha taught many different practices for wisdom and compassion, but one which is not often discussed is how to set appropriate boundaries for one’s self and others. And yet, this was actually a core of the early Dharma and is essential to both our wise action in the world and our mental health. This… Read more

     The Buddha frequently closed his dharma discourses recommending that his followers then turn to take up the practice of the Jhanas, to help them deepen their practice and complement their understanding.  The Jhanas outline a progressive path of stilling, clearing, and focusing the mind that takes us beyond the practices of vipassana, and into… Read more

At the heart of forgiving is developing a skillful, unstuck relationship past harm — ours or others.  Choosing to forgive, we end the story of suffering and all that flows from it, then or now.  It is a kindness toward ourselves as well as others. Jeff guided our steps over this tender ground this week, drawing in… Read more

What maintains and what strengthens a healthy Sangha? How does practicing in Sangha support us on the path to liberation, in our practice and in our life generally?  As Sangha members become our dharma friends, might we meet for other events beyond Sunday mornings?  Darryl framed our discussion this week with a talk by Jill Shepherd and a few words… Read more

     This Sunday’s In-person Meeting of the Sangha featured Tea and Cookies to accompany the discussion circle around the coffee table, all provided by Stephanie, our presenter.        In a world in which our media and politics often deploy Fear as a primary motivator, Stephanie will share a talk by The recorded talk… Read more

     Each of us knows the experience of having our minds hijacked by extraneous thoughts that whisk us far away from the present.  Among the ways we seek to correct course is to draw upon the capacities of our individual minds, by trying to ‘concentrate harder.’        We rarely seek balance outside ourselves.   But… Read more