Book Discussion Group

March 9 – May 4, 2017
The Intelligent Heart

Compassion arises naturally when one comes to perceive the lack of solid distinction between self and other. The Buddhist practice known as tonglen—in which one consciously exchanges self for other—is a skillful method for getting to that truthful perception. In this, his commentary on the renowned Tibetan lojong (mind training) text the Seven Points of Mind Training, Dzigar Kongtrul reveals tonglen to be the true heart and essence of all mind-training practices. He shows how to train the mind in a way that infuses every moment of life with uncontrived kindness toward all.

“Before starting a revolution, you must first have a resistance movement.  And for that, you need concrete, intelligent reasons for resisting.  It won’t help your resistance to rely on unclear, emotional, abstract reasoning.  When the reasons for resistance or a revolution are not clear and precise, the movement can be easily infiltrated and bought by the enemy, as has happened many times in human history.”  Dzigar Kongtrul in,  The Intelligent Heart.  

“The Intelligent Heart shines a clear light on the method for exchanging self for other, developing compassion, and freeing one’s heart. In addition, it’s fun to read, with helpful illustrations and a keen sense of humor.” —Sharon Salzberg, author of Lovingkindness and Real Happiness

The following are the pages that will be discussed at each meeting.

March 9, Forward, Introduction and Point One: pp 11-22
March 16, Point Two: pp 23-58
March 23, Point Three: pp 59-83
March 30, No Meeting
April 6, Point Four: pp 85-103
April 13, Point Five: pp 105-115
April 20, Point Six: pp 117-143
April 27, Point Seven, part one: pp 145-157
May 4, Point Seven, part two: pp 157-168 and Conclusion: pp 169-170

Copies of this book may be ordered at Open Books in Yellow Springs or from the publisher at shambhala.com

For More information call 937-767-1034

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The Dharma Center is collaborating with the Arthur Morgan Institute for Community Solutions to offer

Eco-Sattva Training

An Audio Course for aspiring Eco-Sattvas

Thursdays, 7:45 – 9:00PM, Jan. 12 – Feb. 16, 2017

How will we act on climate disruption with wisdom, courage and compassion?

What does it mean to express a Buddhist response to climate change? What does our wisdom tradition and our love for this life call us to do? How can we respond with wisdom, compassion and courage?

The term “EcoSattva” is a blend of “eco” or “ecology” with “Boddhisattva,” an enlightened being wholly dedicated to the freedom and well-being of others. We hope to support aspiring EcoSattvas in a diverse and powerful body of response, tailored to their aspirations and abilities and grounded in the demands of their local situations. Specifically, the course will endeavor to

1. Root action on climate in Dharma practice
2. Develop Sangha by connecting EcoSattvas with each other and outside partners
3. Inspire and inform “appropriate response”

For more information on the course teachers and content go here.

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Group begins Thursday Sept. 15

Making Friends With Yourself
Discussion, Readings, and Video teachings with Pema Chodron
Thursday Evenings 7:45 – 9:00pm
Sept. 15 ~ 22 ~ 29, Oct. 6 ~ 13 ~ 20, Nov. 3~ 10~17

Among video topics to be discussed are:

 Understanding Ignorance: Where Suffering Begins
 Samsara is a Cycle: the Twelve Nidanas
 Nowness Gives Rise to Bodhichitta: Connecting to Sacred World

ALL READINGS WILL BE PROVIDED ELECTRONICALLY

For more information: vajrayana@ysdharma.org