How can we become good listeners? What might it mean to really hear and be open to ones own thoughts and feelings, and how is listening related to a spiritual path?
The Future of American Buddhism
Panel discussion in NYC with Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche, Roshi Enkyo O’Hara, Shastri Ethan Nichtern and Mitra Mark Power. If Buddhist teachings such as mindfulness meditation are to inform, and transform, the larger culture, what are our next steps?
What would Rebel Buddha say to the American Psychotherapist?
If Rebel Buddha were an American Psychotherapist, what would she have to say? How would she teach and guide her peer psychotherapists? What is truly healing and beneficial for clients?
Buddha Nature
Special Guest Post by Sharon Salzberg
When asked about self hatred the Dalai Lama said, “Self hatred. What is that? But you have Budddha nature. How could you think of yourself that way?” How can Western Buddhists gain confidence in Buddha nature and nourish our capacity to offer lovingkindness to ourselves?
Throwing Out Our Cultural Cushions
“When we adopt too many aspects of the culture we are learning from, we can begin to feel pressured by it. We stop relating to situations with any immediacy. Instead, we relate to what is happening in front of us through a filter of rules and regulations.”
How Is Meditation Like a Snickers Bar?
If we want to taste the truth about our mind and our world, where should we begin? And what does meditation have in common with a Snickers?
Don’t Meditate
Do you ever sit for meditation, hoping for a peaceful experience? What ‘s your approach when it doesn’t happen? Dennis Hunter suggests it’s possible, and even practical, to forget about meditation completely when you’re sitting.
Where the Rubber Hits the Road
What does it really mean to be a Buddhist? How can we take what we learn by studying the teachings of the Buddha, and what we experience in our meditation practice — and put it to work in our lives, moment by moment?