In the first part of a two-part talk, we first identify the value of having a comprehensive map of our practice, and how a contemporary map builds on traditional maps but includes dimensions of practice not identified traditionally. We then explore the three traditional areas of training--in wisdom, meditation (including the development of concentration, mindfulness and insight, and the heart practices), and ethical practice--while briefly mentioning (more next time) two further contemporary areas of practice: Psychological learning of different kinds and social engagement that extends ethical practice. The talk is followed by discussion.

Connected with the talk giving a contemporary map of our practices, we review four foundational practices: (1) developing concentration (samadhi); (2) cultivating general mindfulness, (3) cultivating mindfulness of pleasant or unpleasant feeling-tones, and being mindful of any ensuing reactivity (grasping after the pleasant and pushing away the unpleasant in relatively unconscious, automatic, and habitual ways); and (4) a heart practice developing kindness, compassion, or other heart qualities. The guided meditation is followed by a brief period of discussion.

What does it mean to truly keep a vow to ourselves? Devon Hase explores adhiṭṭhāna—the cultivation of resolve—as both the courage to stay with what is difficult and the wisdom to soften, surrender, and listen when pushing harder becomes its own form of self-abandonment.

This talk from the Spirit Rock Family Retreat explores what joy is, what gets in the way of joy, and how to cultivate it: intend, savor, and recall. We also focus on how mudita or appreciative joy shows up and can be called upon to help us with tricky family situations such as comparison or disappointment. Joy is accessible to us all!

Choosing to be a householder and not a renunciate can be it's own deep path of practice. Chaos, emotional turmoil, lots to do, many to care for: these things don't have to be obstacles, but could actually be important benefits on a path to awakening. The path of the householder accelerates us towards patience, flexibility, compassion, and love.