The Young Persons Sangha is a meditation group for people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. The group meets in-person every other Wednesday at the Sacramento Dharma Center.
Offer a Donation
Use the following donate button and select Young Persons Sangha from the dropdown list.
Sacramento Dharma Center Building
3111 Wissemann Drive Sacramento,
CA
95826United States+ Google Map
To download this talk, right-click and select ‘save audio as’ or select the 3-dot menu to the right of the speaker icon.
One of the fundamental teachings we hear regularly is to “see things clearly as they are.” But Seeing Clearly is not an inherent quality of mind. It is a skill that matures through intentional development. Join us this evening to explore these questions:
What does it mean to “see clearly”?
What are we supposed to see clearly?
Why is seeing clearly so important?
What are the obstacles to seeing clearly? And what do we do about them?
How do we develop this skill?
The presentation and discussion will include a practical examination, and handout, of the critical elements of the Historical Buddha’s Psychology of Causation which explains the nature of suffering. We’ll apply Seeing Clearly to the stressful dynamics of being with family during the holidays.
https://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.png00David Guerrierihttps://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.pngDavid Guerrieri2025-11-20 22:00:002025-11-23 12:05:1911/20/2025 “What Are We Supposed to ‘See Clearly?” with Dennis Warren
We apologize for the inconvenience. Currently our website is experiencing minor problems with how some of our calendar events display in a list. We are currently working on the issue and thank you for your patience.
To download this talk, right-click and select ‘save audio as’ or select the 3-dot menu to the right of the speaker icon.
In this season of gratitude, Rich will bring reflections on the “greatest blessings” from the Maha-Mangala Sutta (Sutta Nipata 2.4). When asked to tell the greatest blessing, the Buddha gave a short discourse in verse containing 38 blessings. This beloved sutta reminds us that, even in the midst of loss and grief, our ordinary lives contain so many sources of gratitude and happiness. In balancing our awareness of suffering with the uplifting conditions in life, we come closer to seeing things as they are. This awareness provides a balance to our daily life practice and a motivation for skillful action in the world.
Rich last offered a reflection on this sutta three years ago, as we celebrated 20 years of SIM. This evening will be structured differently, as we will explore the Buddha’s examples in small group discussions to find sources of happiness relevant to our lives today.
https://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.png00David Guerrierihttps://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.pngDavid Guerrieri2025-11-13 22:00:002025-11-13 21:07:5511/13/2025 “Greatest Blessings” with Rich Howard
Non-residential, Silent Retreat with SIM Teachers Diana Clark and Walt Opie
For biographical details of the teachers, click the links Diana Clark / Walt Opie.
Retreat Theme
A Heart at Ease: Awareness and Wisdom in Challenging Times
About This Retreat
This three-day, non-residential silent meditation retreat invites participants to cultivate awareness and wisdom as a pathway to a heart at ease. Inspired in part by the teachings of Sayadaw U Tejaniya, we’ll practice paying careful attention to the present moment experience—not only during formal sitting and walking meditation, but also throughout the flow of daily life. With an emphasis on continuity of awareness, both at the retreat center and in the hours before and after, participants are encouraged to nurture a gentle, receptive heart that learns to meet each moment with wisdom and ease. Non-residential retreats offer a unique opportunity for deep and sustained meditation practice in the company of others, while returning home to one’s own space at night. For some, this format provides a gentle introduction to the rhythm of residential retreats. For others, it allows for intensive practice while remaining available for evening responsibilities. Whatever the circumstances, a non-residential retreat offers a precious chance to strengthen mindfulness, cultivate continuity of awareness, and experience the support and inspiration of practicing together in person.
This daily schedule is tentative. Check back soon for updated details.
Monday, Mar 16 Overview
9:00 am to 12:00 – Dharma talk
12:00 to 1:00 – Lunch
1:00 pm to 4:30 pm – Dharma talk
Tuesday, Mar 17 Overview
9:00 am to 12:00 – Dharma talk
12:00 to 1:00 – Lunch
1:00 pm to 4:30 pm – Dharma talk
Wednesday, Mar 18 Overview
9:00 am to 12:00 – Dharma talk
12:00 to 1:00 – Lunch
1:00 pm to 4:30 pm – Dharma talk
Registration
$100 – $200 Registration fee includes all three days
Select the registration “REGISTER NOW” button and indicate if you’ll be attending in-person or attending on Zoom. The fee is $100 due before the start of the event. If you are able and interested in further supporting SIM financially, you have the option of adding an optional donation above the base rate. Registration is for all three days; there is no option to register for individual days. Everyone is welcome. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. If paying the full registration fee is a barrier, please contact the registrar to discuss reduced-rate or no-cost options. Before registering to this event, click here to review the refund policy and terms of use for this website.
Visit the retreat donation page (click here) . Please change the setting from “Choose the retreat…“ and replace it with the NON-RESIDENTIAL option instead.
Questions for the Registrar?
If you need to contact the retreat registrar with any questions, click here.
Some of the dharma talks for this retreat will be recorded. If you attend this retreat, click here and enter the password to access the recordings.
Sacramento Dharma Center Building
3111 Wissemann Drive Sacramento,
CA
95826United States+ Google Map
https://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Buddha-holding-Lotus.jpg6671000Sabitrehttps://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.pngSabitre2025-11-13 16:07:132026-02-03 22:23:28(Hybrid) Non-residential, Silent Retreat with Diana Clark and Walt Opie
Rooted in the Dharma: Creating the Future Together
Dear SIM Friends,
What a remarkable year it has been! Thanks to your generosity and dedication on, our sangha has flourished, creating a vibrant community where the Dharma comes alive and nourishes all who participate.
The heart of this vitality lies with our teachers, whose offerings have guided our practice throughout the year. Diana Clark, Walt Opie, and Vance Pryor joined us this year with fresh perspectives, offering inspiring talks, daylong retreats, courses, and a transformative weeklong residential retreat at the Mercy Center in Auburn this spring. At the same me, Dennis Warren, Diane Wilde, and Rich Howard continued to share their steady wisdom and guidance, along with our dedicated visiting teachers Tony Bernhard, Seth Castleman, JD Doyle, and Heather Sundberg. Together, these teachers have made this year a me of deep learning, connection, and inspiration.
This year, SIM offered four rich courses: A Year to Live, Experiencing Insight, Beginning Meditation, and The Five Hindrances. These programs provided opportunities for deepening practice and reflect on. We also hosted a talk series on The Buddha’s An dotes to Challenging Times, supported by kalyāṇami a groups and the October mini-retreat which offered practical support for bringing the teachings into daily life.
Behind the scenes, our dedicated staff, including the Operations Manager, Web_Manager/Bookkeeper, and AV support, have provided a strong and steady foundation. Their work ensures that every program runs smoothly and allows our teachers and Board members to focus fully on offering the Dharma.
Looking ahead, our Board and faculty remain committed to SIM’s five-year plan, strengthening our teaching, leadership, and community. These efforts are helping SIM grow as a refuge for practice and awakening, and we are excited for what the next year will bring.
Your support has made all this possible. Our Rooted in the Dharma fundraising campaign was a wonderful success, sustaining and strengthening SIM’s programs and foundation. Even so, the year-end period remains a special opportunity to help ensure that our momentum continues into the new year and beyond.
With your continued generosity, SIM will thrive and remain rooted in the Dharma for generations to come. You can support SIM in these ways:
If you are 70½ years old, make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) from a traditional IRA Thank you for your continued generosity and commitment to the Dharma. Together, we create a living expression of wisdom and compassion that touches our community and beyond. With gratitude,
Amy Kovak, on behalf of the SIM Board of Directors and Faculty
Make a one- me donation or set up a recurring monthly contribution
https://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.png00Sabitrehttps://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.pngSabitre2025-11-08 11:42:142025-12-01 12:28:39End-of-Year Message from the SIM Board
To download this talk, right-click and select ‘save audio as’ or select the 3-dot menu to the right of the speaker icon.
One of the keys to understanding the Buddhist practice of death contemplation is remembering that it’s not just about all things being impermanent. Rather, it’s about mindfully facing our own death and understanding it could come at any time. The good news is that this practice can lead to lessening our fear of death and learning to live more fully (and even joyfully) each day.
https://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.png00David Guerrierihttps://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.pngDavid Guerrieri2025-11-06 22:00:002025-11-07 11:57:1311/6/2025 “Mindfully Facing Our Own Mortality” with Walt Opie
This holiday season, SIM is once again participating in the Saint John’s Adopt-a-Family Program. Our goal is to raise $1,500 to purchase gifts for a family, helping bring warmth and joy to women and children who are working hard to build brighter futures.
Any funds raised beyond what is needed for holiday gifts will go toward SIM’s monthly meal for St. John’s residents. Each month, SIM volunteers shop for groceries, cook, and serve a comforting dinner of meatloaf, broccoli, rice, salad, and clementines for more than 80 people. This cherished tradition costs about $300 each month and is deeply appreciated by all who share in it.
Your generosity helps keep this beautiful circle of giving alive. Thank you for helping us make the season brighter for the women and children at St. John’s Program for Real Change.
NOTICE: We thank everyone that helped make this 2025 adopt-a-family campaign a success and the donation link is no longer accepting donations. Throughout the year, you may still contribute to support the meal program. For more information, click here.
To make a general donation to Sacramento Insight Meditation, click here.
https://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.png00Sabitrehttps://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.pngSabitre2025-11-03 20:00:002026-01-03 10:59:14Adopt-a-Family: Spread Holiday Joy with SIM!
To download this talk, right-click and select ‘save audio as’ or select the 3-dot menu to the right of the speaker icon.
The Historical Buddha’s teachings invite us to explore two profound dimensions of reality. Traditionally known as the Relative and Absolute (or Conventional and Ultimate) “truths”. They are often misunderstood as abstract philosophical concepts.
Instead, these two dimensions offer us complementary and inter-dependent ways of understanding our lived experience here on planet earth, in this universe. They also open two distinct pathways for practice that can enrich and deepen our journey. Join us this evening as we explore together: what each dimension really means; the unique role each plays in our practice; how each relates to the other; and why weaving both experiences into our daily lives is essential for moving towards greater satisfaction, peace, and awakening.
https://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.png00David Guerrierihttps://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.pngDavid Guerrieri2025-10-30 22:00:002025-10-30 21:07:4810/30/2025 “Demystifying the Two Dimensions of Reality” with Dennis Warren
(Onsite) Young Persons Sangha
Young Person SanghaJanuary 14 @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm PST
The Young Persons Sangha is a meditation group for people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. The group meets in-person every other Wednesday at the Sacramento Dharma Center.
Offer a Donation
Use the following donate button and select Young Persons Sangha from the dropdown list.
Sacramento Dharma Center Building
Sacramento, CA 95826 United States + Google Map
11/20/2025 “What Are We Supposed to ‘See Clearly?” with Dennis Warren
Audio DharmaOne of the fundamental teachings we hear regularly is to “see things clearly as they are.” But Seeing Clearly is not an inherent quality of mind. It is a skill that matures through intentional development. Join us this evening to explore these questions:
The presentation and discussion will include a practical examination, and handout, of the critical elements of the Historical Buddha’s Psychology of Causation which explains the nature of suffering. We’ll apply Seeing Clearly to the stressful dynamics of being with family during the holidays.
Website Calendar Display
News11/13/2025 “Greatest Blessings” with Rich Howard
Audio DharmaIn this season of gratitude, Rich will bring reflections on the “greatest blessings” from the Maha-Mangala Sutta (Sutta Nipata 2.4). When asked to tell the greatest blessing, the Buddha gave a short discourse in verse containing 38 blessings. This beloved sutta reminds us that, even in the midst of loss and grief, our ordinary lives contain so many sources of gratitude and happiness. In balancing our awareness of suffering with the uplifting conditions in life, we come closer to seeing things as they are. This awareness provides a balance to our daily life practice and a motivation for skillful action in the world.
Rich last offered a reflection on this sutta three years ago, as we celebrated 20 years of SIM. This evening will be structured differently, as we will explore the Buddha’s examples in small group discussions to find sources of happiness relevant to our lives today.
You’re Invited to Our Holiday Gathering
NewsClick the following link and provide your RSVP to our 2025 Holiday Gathering happening December 18th from 6:00 to 9:00 pm. We hope you can join us!
(Hybrid) Non-residential, Silent Retreat with Diana Clark and Walt Opie
Online Remote, RetreatMarch 16 @ 9:00 am – March 18 @ 4:30 pm PDT
Non-residential, Silent Retreat with SIM Teachers Diana Clark and Walt Opie
For biographical details of the teachers, click the links Diana Clark / Walt Opie.
Retreat Theme
A Heart at Ease: Awareness and Wisdom in Challenging Times
About This Retreat
This three-day, non-residential silent meditation retreat invites participants to cultivate awareness and wisdom as a pathway to a heart at ease. Inspired in part by the teachings of Sayadaw U Tejaniya, we’ll practice paying careful attention to the present moment experience—not only during formal sitting and walking meditation, but also throughout the flow of daily life. With an emphasis on continuity of awareness, both at the retreat center and in the hours before and after, participants are encouraged to nurture a gentle, receptive heart that learns to meet each moment with wisdom and ease.
Non-residential retreats offer a unique opportunity for deep and sustained meditation practice in the company of others, while returning home to one’s own space at night. For some, this format provides a gentle introduction to the rhythm of residential retreats. For others, it allows for intensive practice while remaining available for evening responsibilities. Whatever the circumstances, a non-residential retreat offers a precious chance to strengthen mindfulness, cultivate continuity of awareness, and experience the support and inspiration of practicing together in person.
This daily schedule is tentative. Check back soon for updated details.
Monday, Mar 16 Overview
Tuesday, Mar 17 Overview
Wednesday, Mar 18 Overview
Registration
Select the registration “REGISTER NOW” button and indicate if you’ll be attending in-person or attending on Zoom. The fee is $100 due before the start of the event. If you are able and interested in further supporting SIM financially, you have the option of adding an optional donation above the base rate. Registration is for all three days; there is no option to register for individual days. Everyone is welcome. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. If paying the full registration fee is a barrier, please contact the registrar to discuss reduced-rate or no-cost options.
Before registering to this event, click here to review the refund policy and terms of use for this website.
Registration, Retreat non-residential
$100.00 – $200.00
Register NowDonate to Teachers
Visit the retreat donation page (click here) . Please change the setting from “Choose the retreat…“ and replace it with the NON-RESIDENTIAL option instead.
Questions for the Registrar?
If you need to contact the retreat registrar with any questions, click here.
Some of the dharma talks for this retreat will be recorded. If you attend this retreat, click here and enter the password to access the recordings.
Sacramento Dharma Center Building
Sacramento, CA 95826 United States + Google Map
End-of-Year Message from the SIM Board
NewsRooted in the Dharma: Creating the Future Together
Dear SIM Friends,
What a remarkable year it has been! Thanks to your generosity and dedication on, our sangha has flourished, creating a vibrant community where the Dharma comes alive and nourishes all who participate.
The heart of this vitality lies with our teachers, whose offerings have guided our practice throughout the year.
Diana Clark, Walt Opie, and Vance Pryor joined us this year with fresh perspectives, offering inspiring talks, daylong retreats, courses, and a transformative weeklong residential retreat at the Mercy Center in Auburn this spring. At the same me, Dennis Warren, Diane Wilde, and Rich Howard continued to share their steady wisdom and guidance, along with our dedicated visiting teachers Tony Bernhard, Seth Castleman, JD Doyle, and Heather Sundberg. Together, these teachers have made this year a me of deep learning, connection, and inspiration.
This year, SIM offered four rich courses: A Year to Live, Experiencing Insight, Beginning Meditation, and The Five Hindrances. These programs provided opportunities for deepening practice and reflect on. We also hosted a talk series on The Buddha’s An dotes to Challenging Times, supported by kalyāṇami a groups and the October mini-retreat which offered practical support for bringing the teachings into daily life.
Behind the scenes, our dedicated staff, including the Operations Manager, Web_Manager/Bookkeeper, and AV support, have provided a strong and steady foundation. Their work ensures that every program runs smoothly and allows our teachers and Board members to focus fully on offering the Dharma.
Looking ahead, our Board and faculty remain committed to SIM’s five-year plan, strengthening our teaching, leadership, and community. These efforts are helping SIM grow as a refuge for practice and awakening, and we are excited for what the next year will bring.
Your support has made all this possible. Our Rooted in the Dharma fundraising campaign was a wonderful success, sustaining and strengthening SIM’s programs and foundation. Even so, the year-end period remains a special opportunity to help ensure that our momentum continues into the new year and beyond.
With your continued generosity, SIM will thrive and remain rooted in the Dharma for generations to come. You can support SIM in these ways:
If you are 70½ years old, make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) from a traditional IRA Thank you for your continued generosity and commitment to the Dharma. Together, we create a living expression of wisdom and compassion that touches our community and beyond.
With gratitude,
Amy Kovak, on behalf of the SIM Board of Directors and Faculty
Make a one- me donation or set up a recurring monthly contribution
Increase your monthly contribution (Contact Us)
11/6/2025 “Mindfully Facing Our Own Mortality” with Walt Opie
Audio DharmaOne of the keys to understanding the Buddhist practice of death contemplation is remembering that it’s not just about all things being impermanent. Rather, it’s about mindfully facing our own death and understanding it could come at any time. The good news is that this practice can lead to lessening our fear of death and learning to live more fully (and even joyfully) each day.
Adopt-a-Family: Spread Holiday Joy with SIM!
NewsThis holiday season, SIM is once again participating in the Saint John’s Adopt-a-Family Program. Our goal is to raise $1,500 to purchase gifts for a family, helping bring warmth and joy to women and children who are working hard to build brighter futures.
Any funds raised beyond what is needed for holiday gifts will go toward SIM’s monthly meal for St. John’s residents. Each month, SIM volunteers shop for groceries, cook, and serve a comforting dinner of meatloaf, broccoli, rice, salad, and clementines for more than 80 people. This cherished tradition costs about $300 each month and is deeply appreciated by all who share in it.
Your generosity helps keep this beautiful circle of giving alive. Thank you for helping us make the season brighter for the women and children at St. John’s Program for Real Change.
To make a general donation to Sacramento Insight Meditation, click here.
10/30/2025 “Demystifying the Two Dimensions of Reality” with Dennis Warren
Audio DharmaThe Historical Buddha’s teachings invite us to explore two profound dimensions of reality. Traditionally known as the Relative and Absolute (or Conventional and Ultimate) “truths”. They are often misunderstood as abstract philosophical concepts.
Instead, these two dimensions offer us complementary and inter-dependent ways of understanding our lived experience here on planet earth, in this universe. They also open two distinct pathways for practice that can enrich and deepen our journey.
Join us this evening as we explore together: what each dimension really means; the unique role each plays in our practice; how each relates to the other; and why weaving both experiences into our daily lives is essential for moving towards greater satisfaction, peace, and awakening.