Learn how Buddhist thought, meditation and action lead to a happy and meaningful life. Everyone is welcome.
Class Description:
Since it is impossible to fulfill all of our desires or to stop unwanted things from happening to us, we need to find a different way of relating to frustrating desires and unwanted occurrences.
In this class learn where our mental pain comes from and authentic meditation methods to reduce this pain. We will learn how to cultivate positive states of mind that will cause happiness and inner stillness.
"Once we fully accept other people as they are without the slightest judgment or reservation - the way all enlightened beings accept us - then there will be no basis for problems in our relations with others. Problems do not exist outside our mind, so when we stop seeing other people as problems they stop being problems." From the book, "How to Solve Our Human Problems"
There are three reasons why we need to study and practice the teachings of Buddha:
To develop our wisdom
To cultivate a good heart
To maintain a peaceful state of mind
If we do not strive to develop our wisdom, we shall always remain ignorant of ultimate truth - the true nature of reality. Although we wish for happiness, our ignorance leads us to engage in non-virtuous actions, which are the main cause of all our suffering.
If we do not cultivate a good heart, our selfish motivation destroys harmony and good relationships with others. We have no peace, and no chance to gain pure happiness. Without inner peace, outer peace is impossible.
If we do not maintain a peaceful state of mind we are not happy even if we have ideal conditions. On the other hand, when our mind is peaceful we are happy even if our external conditions are unpleasant.
Therefore, the development of these qualities is of utmost importance for our daily happiness.
