The Power of Wisdom

RETREAT BY INVITED PRESENTER

In this special weekend retreat, we will explore the Buddhist teachings on wisdom and their power to help us let go of painful states of mind and live with greater purpose and joy. Together we will explore the Heart Sutra, meditate on emptiness, and learn special mindfulness practices to bring insights from meditation into the rest of our lives.

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PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Wisdom is our capacity to deeply understand ourselves and our reality.

In our mistaken view, we see things in a way in which they do not exist, which creates many problems for ourselves and others. Anger, fear, and other turbulent states of mind are based in ignorance. Under their influence, our world and our problems seem fixed, solid and unmanageable. Wisdom unlocks these inner problems.

Buddhist teachings on wisdom reveal our potential to bring lightness and flexibility into everyday situations. We learn that nothing exists separate from the mind. Therefore we can change our experience by changing our minds. Meditation increases our wisdom and connects us with our ability to change. We learn to solve our inner problems—and to realize our potential for lasting happiness and inner peace.

During the weekend, we will receive essential instruction on the Heart Sutra, a most renowned and sacred Buddhist text, based on the authoritative commentary by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. Focusing on the famous line from this sutra, “Form is empty; Emptiness is form,” we will plumb the mysteries of these enigmatic words of Buddha, and discover their practical benefits for our everyday lives.

We will meditate on the emptiness of the self—then learn to transfer the resulting insights into daily life, applying the teachings to work, relationships, health and financial issues.

Most of all, we will connect in a friendly, joyful, and welcoming spiritual community.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

• Intimate setting with personal access to the teacher
• Interactive sessions with question and answer periods
• Guided meditations
• Morning quiet hours
• Group hike
• Optional instruction in Buddhist ritual practice
• Delicious all-vegetarian meals with locally sourced ingredients
• Option to extend stay on Personal Retreat
• Extensive library of dharma books
• Expansive wooded grounds with beautiful flora and fauna

OPEN TO ALL

There are no prerequisites for this program; it is appropriate for meditators at all levels and especially those who wish to deepen their existing practice.

SCHEDULE

(subject to change)

Friday, November 12

Saturday, November 13

Sunday, November 14