Equanimity, and the unique form of happiness that accompanies it, is considered one of the most important qualities of mind and heart in Buddhist practice. It is frequently misunderstood. And how to be Equanimous can sometimes seem confusing or beyond our skill or capacity. Understanding how to cultivate a realistic, practical form of Equanimity seems like something that could help all of us given the conditions in our country and the world.

Join us this evening to examine these questions:

What are the characteristics and qualities of Equanimity? And Equanimous Happiness?

Why is this quality of mind and heart considered so valuable in meditation, daily life and relationships?

In what ways does Equanimity differ from, and is related to, the other three “higher emotions” of Loving Kindness, Compassion and Sympathetic Joy?

How do we develop Equanimity as a readily available resource for dealing with the challenges of life?

You might want to review the essay on SIM’s website entitled “The Practice of Equanimity – The Balanced Embrace of All Experience.” This basic essay will serve as a jumping off point for our exploration on Thursday evening.

“Mindfulness” has become such a commonly used term in Western culture that its meaning now has a shape-shifting quality to it. Its definition depends on the person or group talking about it.
This evening will focus on Right Mindfulness in Buddhist practice, and distinguish it for the broader culture connotations it has taken on. Join us to explore together the following questions:

What is “Right” mindfulness in Buddhist practice?
Of what are we supposed to be mindful?
Why is mindfulness important?
How does one “do” or “be” mindful?
What is the experience of mindfulness?

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.

Many practitioners relate to thought and thinking as obstacles to meditation and daily life practice. This evening, in contrast, will explore the Historical Buddha’s teachings that thought and thinking can be functions of wisdom.

The Buddha’s vision emphasizes the qualities of intention and discernment in thinking as guides for creating, and testing, a sound conceptual framework for practice. This approach includes mindful and intuitive reflection on the results or outcomes of one’s efforts. Thinking and thought can become powerful tools for developing clarity, deepening insight, and supporting ethical conduct.

The Historical Buddha said that he taught only suffering and the end of suffering. While this sounds straightforward, the psychology, multitude of methods, and 1000s of the Buddha’s discourses can make understanding how to end suffering unclear and confusing.

At the center of getting a sound overview of practice, and understanding how the many pieces of practice fit together in one, cohesive whole, is the principle of discovery. It is the center piece around which all elements of practice revolve.
The talk and discussion this evening will focus on this important principle and the role it plays in meditation, daily life, and relationships.