Ahimsa - The Practice of Non-Harming
When we're working to rectify harm and harming, we are actually seeking ways to return to wholeness. - Lien Shutt
To be antiracist is to view... groups as equal in all their differences. - Ibram X. Kendi
According to their delusions, they called black as white; When erroneous imaginations cease, the acquiescent mind realizes itself. - Dongshan Liangjie
In protecting oneself, others are protected; In protecting others, oneself is protected. - Gotama Buddha
This 11-week practice period will focus on the fundamental precept of non-harm. This is a multi-part offering, please see the list at the bottom. For those participating in the practice period, there will be a tea at McGowan House on Sunday mornings at 9 AM. Each week, this will including an intimate discussion of one of the 10 specific precepts as well as a chapter from Lien Shutt's book Home is Here: Practicing Antiracism with the Engaged Eightfold Path. This will be followed by a 20 minute period of zazen starting at 9:50 AM. The ongoing Hiding a Heron in the Moonlight series featuring deep dives into the The Song of the Jewel Mirror Samadhi and How to Be an Antiracist will continue after zazen ending at 11 AM. Practice period begins with the sesshin on Thursday evening February 29 at 4:30 PM through Sunday afternoon March 3 at 3 PM (see the website or speak w/Robert or Shogen for more details). This is a rare and precious opportunity to dwell in stillness and silence with the support of Sangha. The talks during sesshin will be infused with the practice period theme.
One of the foundational teachings of the Buddha is that renewing our focus and intensifying our commitment for a short interval of time enlivens our practice and clarifies our intention. Ango, or Practice Period, means “Peaceful Abiding,” and is a time when we are encouraged to take advantage of meeting our life in this way supported by the community and practice leaders. And, while there are several events offered during this time, the Ango occurs within each one of us -- exactly where we are, as we are. With this understanding, the Practice Period is created to infuse our practice in our everyday life. To support this, we have created a list of options from which you can form an ongoing practice that cultivates and encourages you to go deeper into your own life. You will also have the opportunity to meet with each of the teachers during the sesshin and Practice Period.
To take part, simply begin to make conscious your commitments to the Practice Period and step into the Way. Please fill-out the registration form below. For more information, please contact Shogen Danielson at (415) 531-2090 or Robert Reese at (831) 920-8303.
