May I be a guard for those who are protectorless,
A guide for those who journey on the road.
For those who wish to cross the water,
May I be a boat, a raft, a bridge.
Shāntideva, Chapter 3, Verse 18, Bodhicharyāvatāra
(The Way of the Bodhisattva)
Saturday, 10:30 AM:
Introduction to Buddhism
*Saturday teachings will take place in person and on Zoom. Please contact Ana Barbir at <ana_b1@yahoo.com> for the Zoom link.
This class introduces students to the fundamentals of Buddhism by explaining some its essential principles. Topics include: determining what makes one a Buddhist, understanding our dharma practice in terms of our everyday experiences, the nature of suffering, the importance of a spiritual guide, refuge, karma and rebirth, loving-kindness, compassion and Bodhichitta, meditation, and the wisdom realizing emptiness. The goal is to help participants integrate the teachings into their daily lives by providing the time to address questions at the end of each session. Everyone is welcome and the class requires no previous knowledge of Buddhism.