Yes, please rejoin whenever you wish. Each class
looks at a particular subject and in that way is self-contained. If
having rejoined you find that you are unfamiliar with certain words or
concepts please ask questions during the question and answer period.
All questions are greatly appreciated.
A typical class consists of a talk that either
explores the faults of negative minds and behaviors, and how we can
overcome them, or ways of identifying, increasing, and enhancing all of
our positive qualities. This is followed by a question and answer
period. Depending upon the conditions of each venue there may be an
opportunity for refreshments. Finally, the teacher provides clear
instruction on how to prepare to meditate, and then guides the students
to the object of meditation.
Do I need to have any special
qualifications in order to attend these classes?
No. Buddhist teachings and wisdom are for
everybody. The purpose of General Program classes is to offer methods
to help people reduce their unhappiness, fear, stress, anxiety, anger,
and confusion. Just as a doctor prescribes medicine to everyone
regardless of their beliefs, so these classes are medicine for everyone
regardless of their beliefs.
What do I need to bring to class?
How should I dress?
You do not have to bring anything special with
you, such as cushions, mats etc. Some people find it helpful to take
notes so they can remember specific points or concepts. Dress is casual
and comfortable.
What relevance does Buddhism have
for our current day lives?
Although Buddha Shakyamuni lived 2500 years ago,
the wisdom and compassion that he taught are as relevant today as they
were then. It is clear that despite enormous developments in science,
technology, and material possessions, human beings have not experienced
a corresponding increase in peace and happiness. Wisdom, compassion,
and other virtuous states of mind do not become outdated or
old-fashioned, nor do they do they loose their power with time. We are
very fortunate to still have access to the profound wisdom that Buddha
taught. It has brought immeasurable joy to millions of spiritual
practitioners in the last two millennia.
Is Buddhism a religion or a
philosophy?
Buddhism is definitely a
religion because Buddhists seek refuge in Buddha, his teachings, and
from fellow Buddhist practitioners. Though many people have developed a
dislike for so called ‘organized religion,’ a world
without religion would be a world without any real meaning or purpose.
Some people believe that religion is the cause of conflict and war.
Buddha rejects this idea completely. He says the cause of violence is
our own negative and deluded minds. Negative minds such as anger arise
spontaneously when we experience unpleasant feelings. Because we have
not learned how to control our mind, when negative minds do arise we
have no choice but to experience mental pain. This pain often causes us
to act in deluded ways that cause harm and suffering to others. All
religions teach love and consideration for one another. It is because
people have delusions that they forget the good qualities they are
trying to forge in their minds, and instead end up being controlled by
their negative, deluded states of mind.
Buddhist teachings have a very powerful and
appealing philosophical component to them. From one point of view you
could say the Dharma is a philosophy. However, Buddha strongly wished
his teachings be put into practice and not left at the level of
information.
