In this talk, we locate speech practice in the context of the path of awakening, first explaining the meanings of awakening and path. We then suggest a map of three broad types of interrelated speech practices, focusing on the first type - using ethical principles to guide our speech. We'll explore the others in further talks.

We continue exploring the nature of speech practice, following last night's introduction, focusing on five kinds of mindfulness practice that supports speech practice. Following an overview of mindfulness, we examine (1) connecting inner and outer attention in the midst of speech, (2) the importance for speech practice of mindfulness of the body, (3) mindfulness based on following the ethical speech principles, (4) NVC interpreted as a refinement of mindfulness practice,and (5) mindfulness of the thoughts and emotions.

We continue exploring the nature of speech practice, following last night's introduction, focusing on five kinds of mindfulness practice that supports speech practice. Following an overview of mindfulness, we examine (1) connecting inner and outer attention in the midst of speech, (2) the importance for speech practice of mindfulness of the body, (3) mindfulness based on following the ethical speech principles, (4) NVC interpreted as a refinement of mindfulness practice,and (5) mindfulness of the thoughts and emotions.

The Buddha spoke often of the centrality of speaking lovingly from the heart- "affectionately...with a mind of good-will". We explore the importance for speech practice of working directly with mind and heart, learning through metta practice to "lead" with our hearts. We also in the process touch more and more our radiant hearts, transforming what gets in the way of these hearts.

We explore three increasingly subtle aspects of wisdom and the speech practices related to each of them: (1) the wisdom to know what is wholesome and unwholesome, particularly in an ethical context; (2) the wisdom to know suffering and the roots of suffering, and freedom and its roots; (3) the wisdom to know the nature of more direct experience and the nature of concepts. In all types of wisdom, the basis is the close study of experience, leading to insight and clear seeing.

Our speech practice deepens when we take difficult speech situations as becoming opportunities. We explore the centrality of working skillfully with reactivity; the possibility of becoming more skilled with finding non-dual approaches to conflict and how there are always openings for practice, even when the other seems uninterested in communication.