“In sitting practice, we’re using the minds natural clarity to start our day with the right friend. We’re creating a less hassled environment that is free from distracting marauders that provoke knee-jerk reactions like jealousy and competition. We’re hanging out with the Buddha, which is like listening to a good friend who is telling us the truth.”
Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche was one of the most dynamic teachers of Buddhism in the 20th Century. He was a pioneer in bringing the Buddhist teachings of Tibet to the West.
“In this kind of meditation practice the concept of nowness plays a very important part. In fact, it is the essence of meditation. Whatever one does, whatever one tries to practice, is not aimed at achieving a higher state or at following some theory or ideal, but simply, without any object or ambition, trying to see what is here and now.”
Pema Chödrön is a leading exponent of teachings on meditation and how they apply to everyday life. She is widely known for her charming and down-to-earth interpretation of Tibetan Buddhism for Western audiences.
“The essence of generosity is letting go. Pain is always a sign that we are holding on to something — usually ourselves. When we feel unhappy, when we feel inadequate, we get stingy; we hold on tight. Generosity is an activity that loosens us up. By offering whatever we can — a dollar, a flower, a word of encouragement — we are training in letting go. ”
Acharya
Judith Lief
The following are excerpts from talks given by Acharya Lief
on January 12 & 13, 2006, at the Shambhala Meditation
Center of Washington, DC.
"Meditative Mind & Social Engagement"
(Complete talk: 75 min. - $15).
Shambhala, Shambhala Meditation Center, and Shambhala Center
are registered service marks of Shambhala International (Vajradhatu).
Shambhala Training is a registered trademark of Shambhala/Nalanda Foundation.
Acharya
Judith Lief