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Sangha and Friends Newsletter

10/29/2015

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Nanaimo Buddhist Meditation Group
Buddha House is open for meditation Saturday mornings. Please arrive with time to get seated by 10:00. Newcomers to meditation are very welcome to join us.
Please visit our website at:nanaimobuddhistmeditationgroup.org
Last Week's ReadingFollowing the Breath
Breathing in, I calm my body.
Breathing out, I smile.
Dwelling in the present moment,
I know this is a wonderful moment.
Breathing in, I know that I am breathing in.
Breathing out, I know
as the in-breath goes deep,
the out-breath grows slow.
Breathing in makes me calm.
Breathing out brings me ease.
With the in-breath, I smile.
With the out-breath, I release.
Breathing in, there is only the present moment.
Breathing out, it is a wonderful moment.
In, Out
Deep, Slow
Calm, Ease
Smile, Release
Present moment, Wonderful moment
Sangha News and EventsZen Master Thich Dieu-ThienZen Master Thich Dieu-Thien and her western assistant nun are coming to give a teaching on Saturday, October 31st from 10am to 4pm and Sunday, November 1st from 2 to 4pm in English.
They came last year and gave us a very clear and deep teaching, understanding of life, and some practical approaches to be happy and peaceful. The resident monk Tai Haian invited them for our Sangha.
Everybody is welcome!
Donations for the teacher would be welcomed.
You are invited to stay for lunch after the teaching. Tam from the Vietnamese community has generously offered to make us all lunch after Saturday's teaching.
Please join us for this wonderful opportunity to deepen your practice and understanding of the dharma.
Learn more about them here: www.universaldoor.org
Business MeetingEvery second Saturday of every second month, we will hold a business meeting.
The next meeting will be Saturday, November 14th. Everyone is welcome to join. The meeting will be held after the regular meditation practice.
Community EventsMonday MeditationRiver of the Heart Sangha meets at 5 pm on Mondays. The group practices in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh. The format is opening, introductions, meditation (chanting, guided meditation, silent meditation), offering of teaching and Dharma sharing. The offering of teaching varies week to week. Everyone is welcome to attend. Drop-ins are welcome. The location rotates, please contact Nadine at nadine.schwager@gmail.com or 250-591-7590 for the current locations.
The Heart Sutra: The Heart of Dharma with Lama Mark WebberThursday, December 3rd - Sunday December 6th
The Heart Sutra: The Heart of Dharma. Essentials of Buddhist Meditation and Compassion.
Lama Mark Webber will be teaching from the Heart Sutra during this mini-retreat.
* Thursday and Friday evenings 7:00pm at the Rotary Field House, Nanaimo.
* Saturday at 10:00am and 2:30pm in Duncan.
* Sunday empowerment and teachings at 10:00 am in Duncan.
More details can be found at: islanddharma.com under Classes and retreats
Thanks for everyone's support in keeping the Buddha house open for meditation practice For information about teachings and retreats with Island Dharma please subscribe to the Island Dharma newsletter by emailing: IslandDharma@shaw.ca

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Looking for updated Information?

10/29/2015

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 The web site is run by volunteers, our events page is not always kept up to date. We are open for meditation unless posted here otherwise. For up to date events please leave a comment on our Contact page. We will add you to our email  list.  We always welcome newcomers!
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June 24

6/23/2015

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Please note that there will be no yoga practice on Wednesday June 24th.
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Meditation Practice at Buddha House

6/23/2015

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Buddha House is open for meditation Saturday mornings. Please arrive with time to get seated by 10:00. Newcomers to meditation are very welcome to join us.
Please visit our website at:nanaimobuddhistmeditationgroup.org

Upcoming EventsPlease join us for a 90 minute Mindfulness Yoga practice that embodies the principles of physical and mindfulness yoga into a learning experience at all levels. Principles of Yoga (Asana) and mindfulness meditation.
Please bring your own mat.

Date : Wednesdays at 6:30 pm
Cost : DANA (by donation according to one's means)
Location: Buddha House - 587 Seventh St. Nanaimo, BC

Last Week's ReadingFrom 'Plum Village Chanting and Recitation Book' compiled by Tich Nhat Hanh
Discourse on the Middle Way

I heard these words of the Buddha one time when the Lord was staying at the guest house in a forest of the district of Nala. At that time, the venerable Kaccayana came to visit him and asked, "The Tathagata has spoken of Right View, How would the Tathagata describe Right View?"

The Buddha told the venerable monk, "People in the world tend to believe in one of two views: the view of being or the view of nonbeing. That is because they are bound to wrong perception. IT is wrong perception that leads to the concepts of being and nonbeing. Kaccayana, most people are bound to the internal formations of discrimination and preference, grasping and attachment. Those who are not bound to the internal knots of grasping and attachment no longer imagine an clint to the idea of a self. They understand, for example, that suffering comes to be when conditions are favourable, and that it fades away when conditions =are no longer favourable, They no longer have any doubts. Their understanding has not come to them through others; it is their own insight, This insight is called Right View, and this is the way the Tathagata would describe Right View.

"How is this so? When a person who has correct insight observes the coming to be of the world, the idea of nonbeing does not arise in her, and when she observed the fading away of the viewing the world as being in extreme; viewing it as nonbeing is another extreme, The Tathagata avoids these two extreme me sand teachers the Dharma dwelling in the Middle Way.

"The Middle Way says that this is because that is; this is not, because that is not, Because there is ignorance, there are impulse; because there are impulse, there is consciousness; because there is consciousness, there is the psyche-soma; because there is the psyche-soma there are the six senses, there is contact; because there is contact, there is feeling; because there is feeling, there is craving; because there is craving, there is grasping; because there is grasping, there is becoming; because there is becoming, there is birth; because there is birth, there is old age, death, grief, and sorrow. That is how this entire ass of suffering arises. But with the fading away of ignorance, impulse ceases; with the fading away of impulse, consciousness ceases; ...and finally birth, old age, death, grief and sorrow will fade away. That is how the entire mass of suffering ceases."

After listening to the /buddha, the Venerable Kaccayana was enlightened and liberated from sorrow he was able to untie all of his internal knots and attain Arhatship.

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Teaching at the Buddha house!

6/1/2015

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Saturday June 6th
Please join us for this wonderful opportunity to hear a dharma teaching from a visiting Zen Master from California, The teaching will begin at 10:00 . One of the Sangha members from the Buddha house has offered to cook a special lunch for us all after the teaching.




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May 28th, 2015

5/28/2015

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Buddha House is open for meditation Saturday mornings. Please arrive with time to get seated by 10:00. Newcomers to meditation are very welcome to join us.
Please visit our website at:nanaimobuddhistmeditationgroup.org

Upcoming TeachingsWe will have a visiting monk from California that has agreed to teach us Dharma on Saturday June 6, 2015, followed by a pot luck lunch.

Upcoming EventsPlease join us for a 90 minute Mindfulness Yoga practice that embodies the principles of physical and mindfulness yoga into a learning experience at all levels. Principles of Yoga (Asana) and mindfulness meditation.
Please bring your own mat.

Date : Wednesdays at 6:30 pm, beginning April 29th
Cost : DANA (by donation according to one's means)
Location: Buddha House - 587 Seventh St. Nanaimo, BC

Last Week's ReadingElder Discourse from 'Plum Village Chanting and Recitation Book' compiled by Tich Nhat Hanh

I heard these towards of Buddha one time when the Lord was staying at the monastery on the Jeta Grove, n the town of Shravasti. AT the time there was a monk named Thera IElderO, who always preferred to be alone, Whenever he could he praised the practice of living alone, HE sought aims alone an sat in meditation alone.

One time a group bhikshus came to the Lord, paid their respects by prostrating at his feet, stepped to one side, sat down at a distance, and said, "Blessed One, there is an elder by the name of Thera who only wants to be alone, He always praises the practice of living alone, He goes into the village alone to seeks alms, returns home the village alone, and sits in meditation alone."

The Lord Buddha told one of the bhikshus, "Please go to the place where the monk Thera lives and tell him I wish to see him."

The bhikshus obeyed. When the monk Thera heard the Buddha's wish, he came without delay, prostrated at the feet of the Buddha, stepped to one side, and sat down at a distance, Then the Blessed One asked the monk Thera, "IS it true that you prefer to be alone, praise the life of solitude, go for alms alone, come back from the village alone, and sit in meditation alone?"

The monk Thera replied, "It is true, Blessed One."

Buddha asked the monk Thera, "How do you live alone?"

The Monk Thera replied, "I live alone; no one else lives with me. I praise the practice of being alone. I go for alms alone, and I come back from the village alone. I sit in meditation alone. That is all."

The Buddha taught the monk as follows, "IT is obvious that you like the practice of living alone. I do not want to deny that, but want to tell you that there is a more wonderful and profound way to be alone, It is the way of deep observation in order to see that the past no longer exists and the future has not yet come, and to dwell at ease in the present moment, free from desire. When a person lives in this way, he has no hesitation in his heart. He gives up all anxieties and regrets, lets go of all binding desires, and cuts the fetters which prevent him from being free. This is called 'the better way to live alone,' There is no more more wonderful way of being alone than this."

Then the Blessed One recited this gatha:

"Observing life deeply,
it is possible to clearly see all that is.
Not enslaved by anything,
it is possible to put aside all craving,
resulting in a life of peace an joy.
This is truly to live alone."

Hearing the Lord's words. the monk Thera was delighted, He prostrated respectfully to the Buddha and departed.

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Thu, May 14, 2015

5/14/2015

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Buddha House is open for meditation Saturday mornings. Please arrive with time to get seated by 10:00. Newcomers to meditation are very welcome to join us.

***

Upcoming Teachings

We will have a visiting monk from California that has agreed to teach us Dharma on Saturday June 6, 2015, followed by a pot luck lunch.

***

Upcoming Events

Please join us for a 90 minute Mindfulness Yoga practice that embodies the principles of physical and mindfulness yoga into a learning experience at all levels. Principles of Yoga (Asana) and mindfulness meditation.

Please bring your own mat.

Date : Wednesdays at 6:30 pm, beginning April 29th (there will be no class May 20th)

Cost : DANA (by donation according to one's means)

Location: Buddha House - 587 Seventh St. Nanaimo, BC

***

Every year during the month of May, Buddhists around the world get together to celebrate Vesak (commemoration of the Buddha’s Birth, Enlightenment and Passing). This year for the first time in B.C., the United Saṅgha (community of Buddhist monks and nuns from the different traditions) will celebrate the Vesak together. It is our hope that the United Saṅgha will bring peace and harmony to the Buddhist Community and the Canadian society at large by introducing Canadians to the richness of Buddhist philosophy and practices. May 16th. 1:00-7:00pm at the Italian cultural center Vancouver.

http://www.unitedsangha.org/vesak2015/vesak/

***

Last Week's Reading

From 'Plum Village Chanting and Recitation Book' compiled by Tich Nhat Hanh

Discourse on the Middle Way

I heard these words of the Buddha one time when the Lord was staying at the guest house in a forest of the district of Nala. At that time, the venerable Kaccayana came to visit him and asked, "The Tathagata has spoken of Right View, How would the Tathagata describe Right View?"

The Buddha told the venerable monk, "People in the world tend to believe in one of two views: the view of being or the view of nonbeing. That is because they are bound to wrong perception. IT is wrong perception that leads to the concepts of being and nonbeing. Kaccayana, most people are bound to the internal formations of discrimination and preference, grasping and attachment. Those who are not bound to the internal knots of grasping and attachment no longer imagine an clint to the idea of a self. They understand, for example, that suffering comes to be when conditions are favourable, and that it fades away when conditions =are no longer favourable, They no longer have any doubts. Their understanding has not come to them through others; it is their own insight, This insight is called Right View, and this is the way the Tathagata would describe Right View.

"How is this so? When a person who has correct insight observes the coming to be of the world, the idea of nonbeing does not arise in her, and when she observed the fading away of the viewing the world as being in extreme; viewing it as nonbeing is another extreme, The Tathagata avoids these two extreme me sand teachers the Dharma dwelling in the Middle Way.

"The Middle Way says that this is because that is; this is not, because that is not, Because there is ignorance, there are impulse; because there are impulse, there is consciousness; because there is consciousness, there is the psyche-soma; because there is the psyche-soma there are the six senses, there is contact; because there is contact, there is feeling; because there is feeling, there is craving; because there is craving, there is grasping; because there is grasping, there is becoming; because there is becoming, there is birth; because there is birth, there is old age, death, grief, and sorrow. That is how this entire ass of suffering arises. But with the fading away of ignorance, impulse ceases; with the fading away of impulse, consciousness ceases; ...and finally birth, old age, death, grief and sorrow will fade away. That is how the entire mass of suffering ceases."

After listening to the /buddha, the Venerable Kaccayana was enlightened and liberated from sorrow he was able to untie all of his internal knots and attain Arhatship.

***

Thanks for everyone's support in keeping the Buddha house open for meditation practice

***

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Meditation Practice at Buddha House

5/13/2015

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Meditation Practice at Buddha House

Buddha House is open for meditation Saturday mornings. Please arrive with time to get seated by 10:00. Newcomers to meditation are very welcome to join us.

Please visit our website at:nanaimobuddhistmeditationgroup.org

***

Upcoming Teachings

We will have a visiting monk from California that has agreed to teach us Dharma on Saturday June 6, 2015, followed by a pot luck lunch.

***

Upcoming Events

Please join us for a 90 minute Mindfulness Yoga practice that embodies the principles of physical and mindfulness yoga into a learning experience at all levels. Principles of Yoga (Asana) and mindfulness meditation.

Please bring your own mat.

Date : Wednesdays at 6:30 pm, beginning April 29th

Cost : DANA (by donation according to one's means)

Location: Buddha House - 587 Seventh St. Nanaimo, BC

***

Every year during the month of May, Buddhists around the world get together to celebrate Vesak (commemoration of the Buddha’s Birth, Enlightenment and Passing). This year for the first time in B.C., the United Saṅgha (community of Buddhist monks and nuns from the different traditions) will celebrate the Vesak together. It is our hope that the United Saṅgha will bring peace and harmony to the Buddhist Community and the Canadian society at large by introducing Canadians to the richness of Buddhist philosophy and practices. May 16th. 1:00-7:00pm at the Italian cultural center Vancouver

***

Last Week's Reading

Discourse on Love

“He or she who wants to attain peace should practice being upright

, humble ,and capable of using loving speech. He or she will

know how to live simply and happy, with senses calmed, without

being covetous and carried away by the emotions of the majority.

Let him or her not do anything that will be disapproved of by the wise ones.

“(And this is what he or she contemplates):

“May everyone be happy and safe, and may their hearts be

filled with joy.

“May all being live in security and in peace- being who are

frail or strong, tall or short, big or small, visible or nor visible,

near or faraway, already born, or yet to be born. May all of them

dwell in perfect tranquillity.

“Let no one do harm to anyone. let no one put the life of

anyone in danger, Let no one, out of anger or ill will , wish anyone

any harm.

“Just as a mother loves and protects her only child at the risk

of her own life. we should cultivate boundless love to offer to all

living beings in the entire cosmos.We should let our boundless

love pervade the whole universe, above, below, and across.Our

love will know no obstacles. Our heart will be absolutely free

from hatred and enmity. Whether standing or walking, sitting or

lying , as long as we are awake, we should maintain this mindfulness

of love in our heart. This is the noblest way of living.

“Free from wrong views, greed, and sensual desires, living in

beauty and realizing Perfect understanding, those who practice

boundless love will certainly transcend birth and death.”

Metta Suttra, Sutta Nipata I “

***

Thanks for everyone's support in keeping the Buddha house open for meditation practice

***

For information about teachings and retreats with Dr. Cheryl Fraser please subscribe to the Islanwsletter by emailing: IslandDharma@shaw.ca

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Buddha House Closed This Saterday

2/9/2015

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A New Year at The Buddha House

1/3/2015

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Meditation Practice at Buddha House is open for meditation Saturday mornings. Please arrive with time to get seated by 10:00. Newcomers to meditation are very welcome to join us.

Sangha and friends announcements We are happy to continue meditation practice at the Buddha house January 3 2015 , we look forward to seeing you . All the Best to everyone in the coming new year .

Last weeks readingThe reading is from the Plumb Village Chanting and Recitation book
Compiled by Thich Nhat Hanh

Love Meditation
( we begin practicing this love meditation focusing on ourselves ("I"). Until we are able to love and take care of ourselves, we cannot be of much help to others. Next , we can practice towards others (substitution "he/she" or "they"), first with someone we love , next with someone we like, then with someone neutral to us, and finally toward someone who has made us suffer.)

May I be peaceful, happy and light in body and spirit .
May I be safe and free from injury.
May I be free from anger , afflictions, fear, and anxiety.

May I learn to look at myself with the eyes of understanding and love.
May I be able to recognize and touch the seeds of joy and happiness in myself.
May I learn to identify and see the sources of anger,craving,and delusion in myself.

May I know how to nourish the seeds of joy in myself every day.
May I be able to live fresh ,solid, and free.
May I be free from attachment and aversion, but not be indifferent.


Thanks for everyone's support in keeping the Buddha house open for meditation practice For information about teachings and retreats with Dr. Cheryl Fraser please subscribe to the Island Dharma newsletter by emailing: IslandDharma@shaw.ca

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Saturday Sitting Practice

9/16/2014

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We are pleased to announce there will be sitting practice every Saturday at the Buddha house. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
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Sangha Newsletter January 30, 2014

1/31/2014

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Picture

Upcoming Meeting Schedule
Saturday, February 1, 2014
Buddha House is closed for preparations for Chinese New Year celebrations on Sunday.

Sunday, February 2, 2014
Chinese New Year celebration at Buddha House at 10:30 am. We have been kindly invited by Thay Phap An and the Vietnamese community to join them in celebrating the New Year.

Saturday, February 8, 2014 (10 am - noon)
Special teaching with Lama Mark Webber - see below for information.

Saturday, February 15, 2014 (10 am - noon)
TBA

Saturday, February 22, 2014 (10 am - noon)
TBA

Special EventsThe Path of the Vajrayana Clearly Explained - A Public Talk by Lama Mark Webber In a brief session together, Lama Mark Webber will help us understand, maybe even taste, the depth and profundity of the Vajrayana. "The why, the how, the what, the where; but not the when. The when has already occurred for all of us…it has always been present. It never comes, it never goes and it's certainly not an it! The Path is how to uncover, recognize and then cultivate the natural unity of wisdom and compassion to complete ripening" LM

Saturday February 8th, 10am - 12 noon
Chua Hai An Vietnamese Buddha house,
home of the Nanaimo Buddhist Meditation Group
587 Seventh Street, Nanaimo, B.C

Please arrive by 9:50 to be seated before the teaching. There is no need to register.

Contact person for Saturday teaching
Josephine Chong
yangilhamo@gmail.com
250-756-2127.

Our resident teacher Dr. Cheryl Fraser has invited one of her root teachers, Lama Mark Webber, to share the Dharma with us. Lama Mark’s style of teaching is humorous, deeply spiritual, non-sectarian, universalist in nature, classically founded and well integrated with science, art and nature. Don’t miss a rare opportunity to experience the true heart and mind of a master!

Chenresig Wongkur - Bestowed by Lama Mark Webber Saturday February 8th, 7pm
at 6657 Chisholm Trail Duncan B.C (Maple Bay)


Four Armed Chenresig This Empowerment (an authorization) is open for all to attend. It is a profound empowerment for ripening the development of Compassion and Wisdom, Merit and all good qualities. The Empowerment will be followed by a Tsok feast.

Please contact Cheryl at drcheryl@shaw.ca or (250) 210-5683 if you would like to attend the Empowerment.

Workshops and RetreatsSave the dates! Dr. Cheryl will be teaching several meditation retreats this year. Currently the Nanaimo Buddhist Meditation group is organizing a weekend retreat at the Bethlehem Retreat Centre - March 2014, specific dates TBA.

Dr. Cheryl will also be teaching on Denman Island at the Hermitage this summer. There will be a weekend retreat May 23rd - 25th.
DATE CHANGE FOR SUMMER WEEK LONG RETREAT: July 17th - 23rd "Cultivating the awake, compassionate mind". These silent retreats will include meditation practice, Dharma teachings, interviews, and yoga. Watch for registration details in upcoming newsletters.


Group trip to Chan Nguyen Temple You are welcome to join the Nanaimo Buddhist Meditation Group for a visit to Chan Nguyen temple. For anyone ready to take Refuge in the Three jewels and the Five precepts, Thay Vien Giac has offered the ceremony for us. Everyone is invited. It is always a wonderful experience to visit with Thay Vien Giac and the monastic community, and experience a small taste of what monastic life is like.
Date: February 8 and February 9, 2014
Location: Chan Nguyen Temple, 1210-200 Street, Langley
February 8: Depart aboard the 7:45am ferry from Duke Point
Meet at Duke Point Ticketing Agent’s station by 7:30 am to meet ticket cut-off time
Bring: • Two passport size photos for the Precept Certificate (For those taking refuge) Note: the photographer might remind you not to smile for your passport photos but for the Precept photo you are encouraged to smile.
• Sleeping Bag
• Mat for your sleeping bag - optional
• Meditation cushion - optional
• Dana (donation) for the temple
Meals: Vegetarian meals will be provided during your stay at the temple
Trip Sign Up: Contact Sunny at 250-754-6322
It is mandatory that you call Sunny by February 1, 2014 to register as the information is needed to organize transportation for pick up at Tsawwassen and preparation for the Precept Ceremony.

Sherab Chamma Ling Annual Spring Weekend Teaching Retreat April 4th, 5th, & 6th, 2014
Discover, Explore, & Develop Your Own Buddha Nature


DZOGCHEN VIEW, MEDITATION & ACTION
Teachers: Geshe YongDong & Geshe Chaphur
For registration, please go to their website www.sherabchammaling.com, and on the home page scroll down to the highlighted text box for the Spring retreat, click on it and you will be taken to the info pages with the registration instructions and pay pal button.


Sangha NotesYou can listen to free dharma talks online at dharmaseed.org

Please be mindful about parking when you come to Buddha House. Park across the street and not in front of the homes of our neighbours.

You may want to bring a meditation shawl and warm socks to meditation practice during the cooler winter months.

Opportunities are available for Sangha members to contribute some time to the following weekly duties within our community:
Housekeeping - approximately 30 min. after meditation plus one load of laundry per week.
Please let one of the leaders know if you are interested in volunteering.


In keeping with our respect of the meditation hall, we request that you follow the following BUDDHA HOUSE ETIQUETTE:
Please…
Practice silence in the Meditation Hall
Wear modest attire
Turn off cell phones
Remove shoes and hats
Do not step over Dharma books and images
Do not place prayer books or Dharma images on the floor
Do not point the bottom of your feet toward the altar or teacher
Thank you for respecting these traditions.

www.nanaimobuddhistmeditationgroup.org

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Thu, Jan 2, 2014

1/2/2014

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Sangha Newsletter January 02, 2014 Upcoming Meeting Schedule Saturday, January 4, 2014 (10 am until after pot luck)
_Teaching with Dr. Cheryl Fraser

Please join us for a seasonal vegetarian pot luck following the teaching_

Saturday, January 11, 2014 (10 am - noon)
TBA

Saturday, January 18, 2014 (10am - noon)
TBA

Saturday, January 25, 2014 (10 am - 3:30 pm)
_Workshop with GesheLa
- see next section for details_

Workshops and Retreats Chöd - Cutting Attachments & Transforming Fear
Saturday, January 25, 2014
Time:
10 am – 3:30 pm (lunch break: noon – 1:30)
Nanaimo Buddha House

587 Seventh St., Nanaimo
Suggested Donation $25.00


The ancient Tibetan Buddhist texts say that the root of all suffering is the ego - our sense of self. The ego becomes over-reactive and pressured to use quick solutions to daily problems. The quick solutions come in the form of anger and frustration when the world doesn’t act the way we want. The mind becomes irritated, consumed with trying to align the outside world with our desires.
The Tibetan word Chöd means “cutting off “or “cutting away”. Chöd has two functions: it eliminates attachment to the ego and to the body, and it serves as a means to cultivate generosity. What is cut off in Chöd practice is the attachment to one’s ego, symbolized by one’s physical body.
This spiritual practice from the Mother Tantra of the Bon tradition is a creative & skillful method relying on feminine wisdom energy to “cut through” obstacles, negativity, emotional conflicts and dissatisfaction in one’s life.
GesheLa will share his knowledge of the outer, inner, and secret offerings of the Chöd practice that subdue, satisfy, and heal the obstructing energies in our lives; making ancient wisdom and meditation practices accessible and relevant to our current circumstances.
The workshop is suitable for students of all levels of spiritual practice especially those who are facing fearful circumstances, threatening illnesses, and the stressful challenges of everyday life.

No registration required. Please bring bagged lunch. We will supply the tea for breaks. Lack of funds will not stop you from receiving dharma.

Sangha Notes We are collecting donations of non-perishable food items for the food bank, and warm clothing and blankets for a local shelter. A box is available downstairs for your contributions.

Please be mindful about parking when you come to Buddha House.Park across the street and not in front of the homes of neighbours.

With the onset of cooler weather, you may want to bring a meditation shawl and warm socks to meditation practice.

Opportunities are available for Sangha members to contribute some time to the following weekly duties within our community:
Housekeeping - approximately 30 min. after meditation plus one load of laundry per week.
Back-up for publishing our weekly newsletter - as needed. Training provided.
Please let one of the leaders know if you are interested in volunteering.

In keeping with our respect of the meditation hall, we request that you follow the following BUDDHA HOUSE ETIQUETTE:
Please…
Practice silence in the Meditation Hall
Wear modest attire
Turn off cell phones
Remove shoes and hats
Do not step over Dharma books and images
Do not place prayer books or Dharma images on the floor
Do not point the bottom of your feet toward the altar or teacher


 




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Thu, Nov 21, 2013

11/21/2013

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Sangha Newsletter November 21, 2013 Upcoming Meeting Schedule Saturday, November 23, 2013 from 10 AM - 12 PM
Teaching with Cheryl, Topic: Bodhicitta or Heart-Mind: What is our motivation for awakening?


Saturday, November 30, 2013 from 10 AM - 12 PM
Teaching with Cheryl or regular meditation practice: TBA


Saturday, December 7, 2013 from 10 AM - 12 PM
Teaching with Cheryl or regular meditation practice: TBA


Saturday, December 14, 2013 from 10 AM - 12 PM
Regular Meditation Practice - Cheryl is teaching the Nanaimo Buddhist Meditation Group retreat at Bethlehem Retreat Centre.


Saturday, December 21, 2013 from 10 AM - after our gathering
Teaching with Dr. Cheryl Fraser and holiday Potluck Topic: The true meaning of Christmas... according to Buddha Dharma. Join us for a holiday themed Dharma talk and social gathering.


December Retreat Compassion, Calm, and Wisdom - A Prescription for Deep, Lasting Happiness. A Residential Retreat with Dr. Cheryl Fraser
(Friday, December 13 (3 pm) - Sunday, December 15 (5 pm), 2013.
The registration numbers for the retreat are just being finalized. If you have not yet registered, are still interested in attending, and would like to be put on the list for a space depending on availability, please email Josephine -yangilhamo@gmail.com and ccnanaimobuddhistmeditationgroup@shaw.ca


Sangha Notes With the onset of cooler weather, you may want to bring a meditation shawl and warm socks to meditation practice.

In keeping with our respect of the meditation hall, we request that you follow the following BUDDHA HOUSE ETIQUETTE:
Please…
Practice silence in the Meditation Hall
Wear modest attire
Turn off cell phones
Remove shoes and hats
Do not step over Dharma books and images
Do not place prayer books or Dharma images on the floor
Do not point the bottom of your feet toward the altar or teacher
Thank you for respecting these traditions.


Opportunities are available for Sangha members to contribute some time to the following weekly duties within our community:
Housekeeping - approximately 30 min. after meditation plus one load of laundry per week.
Back-up for publishing our weekly newsletter - as needed. Training provided.
Please let one of the leaders know if you are interested
 


 



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Sangha Newsletter September 5,2013

9/5/2013

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September 5, 2013


Upcoming Meeting Schedule
Saturday, September 7 from 10 AM - 12 PM 
Regular Meditation Practice


Saturday, September 14 from 10 AM - 12 PM 
Teaching by Dr. Cheryl Fraser


Saturday, September 21 from 10 AM - 12 PM 
Teaching by Dr. Cheryl Fraser


Saturday, September 28 from 10 AM - 3:30 PM 
A teaching with Tibetan monk Lama Geshe YongDong


Workshops & Retreats
Friday evening Sept. 6 – Sunday afternoon Sept. 8 
Retreat with Dr. Cheryl Fraser


Living in the United States of Happy Mind


Location: The Hermitage on Denman island 
Register: www.dharmafellowship.org/hermitage/retreat-schedule.htm 
www.dharmafellowship.org/pdf/DharmaFellowship_Retreat_Info_Brochure.pdf


This weekend retreat will focus on developing the four wholesome mental states, known in Buddha Dharma as the Brama Viharas, or the Divine Abodes. These four psychologically healthy, happy mind states are loving kindness, compassion, empathetic joy, and equanimity. This silent retreat will have periods of vipassana (insight) meditation practice and periods of guided meditation practice on each of the four divine abodes. Daily Dharma talks/interviews with the teacher. The emphasis will be on opening the heart and thus allowing a deeper settling of the mind. 
_____________________________________________


Dr. Cheryl Fraser’s Bio 
Cheryl Fraser Ph.D. has been studying Buddha Dharma for 20 years. Her root teacher was the venerable Namgyal Rinpoche. Other teachers include Lama Mark Webber, Phillip Moffit, and Adrianne Ross. Cheryl studies and practices in both the Tibetan Vajrayana and the Theravaden Vipassana traditions. She is the resident teacher for the Nanaimo Buddha House and she teaches retreats at the Hermitage on Denman Island and elsewhere. She is a clinical psychologist in private practice, and she draws extensively from Western science and psychology, applying even the more complex Dharma's to "real life". Cheryl writes a column for Best Health magazine. She teaches Dharma in an approachable, colourful and humourous style. She invites us to examine the question: How can I be happy for no reason. 
_____________________________________________


Saturday, September 28 from 10 AM to 3:30 PM 
A teaching with Tibetan monk Lama Geshe YongDong 
Tibetan View of Life


Location: The Buddha House 
Suggested donation: $25 
More information: yangilhamo@gmail.com
You often hear that someone lived a good life, but rarely hear that a person had a good death.


The book The Tibetan Book of Living & Dying, was written not only as a means of help & guidance for the dying, but also as a guide for living, with valuable advice on how to live without the fear of death and the unknown.


If we fear death we cannot really choose life. We are, instead, trying to figure out how to avoid death, rather than focusing on how to live passionately!


Geshe YongDong's qualities of wisdom, compassion & humor will help students to recognize & eliminate some of the fear & myths that surround death.


Students will learn methods of preparation that teach how to take control over our lives & fears. How we can give unconditional love, acceptance & joy to others, to live peacefully & fully, & to end our lives without fear or regret when the time comes.


Saturday, August 31, 2013 - Regular Meditation Practice


In keeping with our respect of the meditation hall, we request that you follow the following BUDDHA HOUSE ETIQUETTE: 
Please… 
Practice silence in the Meditation Hall 
Wear modest attire - you may wear a robe to cover up if you are wearing shorts 
Turn off cell phones 
Remove shoes and hats 
Do not step over Dharma books and images 
Do not place prayer books or Dharma images on the floor 
Do not point the bottom of your feet toward the altar or teacher 
Thank you for respecting these traditions.


Dr. Cheryl Fraser will meet with individual Sangha members to discuss their personal practice at 9:15 am and 9:35 am on the Saturdays that she is teaching at Buddha House (September 14th and 21st.) To book an appointment, call Sunny at 250-754-6322 (before 7 pm please) by Wednesday and leave your name and phone number for confirmation. These interviews are offered in the spirit of generosity - that is, on a Dana basis - by the teacher. If you feel moved to express your gratitude, please place offerings in the Dana box.
 


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Sangha Newsletter August 15, 2013

8/26/2013

0 Comments

 
Sangha Newsletter August 15, 2013 Upcoming Meeting Schedule Saturday, August 17 from 10 AM - 12 PM
Dr. Cheryl Fraser gives a Dharma talk: The 6 Parami - The 6 qualities of Enlightened Living, Part 2

Saturday, August 24 from 10 AM - 12 PM
TBA

Saturday, August 31 from 10 AM - 12 PM
TBA

Saturday, September 7 from 10 AM - 12 PM
TBA

Workshops & RetreatsFrday, August 23 at 7 pm: Evening teaching at Denman Island with Dr. Cheryl Fraser

Moods and Meditation; How the Buddha describes good mind states and bad mind states and what you can do about your own mind and mood

Location: Jane & Patrick Fawkes 4060 Wren Road  250-335-1605  jpfawkes @ telus. net (ferry pick up can be arranged - please call ahead)

The Buddha was a great psychologist. He clearly identified the four positive states of mind (emotions) and the three root negative states of mind. He then illustrated how we can work with our own thoughts to decrease the negative and increase the positive. Modern neuroscience is now beginning to prove what Buddhist meditators have discovered over the last 2600 years; meditation and the study of Buddhist principles leads to increased calm, happiness and compassion. Turns out the old adage is true; it IS all in your head.

_____________________________________________

Friday evening Sept. 6 – Sunday afternoon Sept. 8
Retreat with Dr. Cheryl Fraser

Living in the United States of Happy Mind

Location: The Hermitage on Denman island
Register: www.dharmafellowship.org/hermitage/retreat-schedule.htm
www.dharmafellowship.org/pdf/DharmaFellowship_Retreat_Info_Brochure.pdf

This weekend retreat will focus on developing the four wholesome mental states, known in Buddha Dharma as the Brama Viharas, or the Divine Abodes. These four psychologically healthy, happy mind states are loving kindness, compassion, empathetic joy, and equanimity. This silent retreat will have periods of vipassana (insight) meditation practice and periods of guided meditation practice on each of the four divine abodes. Daily Dharma talks/interviews with the teacher. The emphasis will be on opening the heart and thus allowing a deeper settling of the mind.
_____________________________________________

Dr. Cheryl Fraser’s Bio
Cheryl Fraser Ph.D. has been studying Buddha Dharma for 20 years. Her root teacher was the venerable Namgyal Rinpoche. Other teachers include Lama Mark Webber, Phillip Moffit, and Adrianne Ross. Cheryl studies and practices in both the Tibetan Vajrayana and the Theravaden Vipassana traditions. She is the resident teacher for the Nanaimo Buddha House and she teaches retreats at the Hermitage on Denman Island and elsewhere. She is a clinical psychologist in private practice, and she draws extensively from Western science and psychology, applying even the more complex Dharma's to "real life". Cheryl writes a column for Best Health magazine. She teaches Dharma in an approachable, colourful and humourous style. She invites us to examine the question: How can I be happy for no reason.
_____________________________________________

Saturday, September 28 from 10 AM to 3:30 PM
A teaching with Tibetan monk Lama Geshe YongDong
Tibetan View of Life

Location: The Buddha House
Suggested donation: $25
More information: yangilhamo@gmail.com

You often hear that someone lived a good life, but rarely hear that a person had a good death.

The book The Tibetan Book of Living & Dying, was written not only as a means of help & guidance for the dying, but also as a guide for living, with valuable advice on how to live without the fear of death and the unknown.

If we fear death we cannot really choose life. We are, instead, trying to figure out how to avoid death, rather than focusing on how to live passionately!

Geshe YongDong's qualities of wisdom, compassion & humor will help students to recognize & eliminate some of the fear & myths that surround death.

Students will learn methods of preparation that teach how to take control over our lives & fears. How we can give unconditional love, acceptance & joy to others, to live peacefully & fully, & to end our lives without fear or regret when the time comes.

Sangha NotesSaturday, August 17, 2013 - Teaching by Dr. Cheryl Fraser.

In keeping with our respect of the meditation hall, we request that you follow the following BUDDHA HOUSE ETIQUETTE:
Please…
Practice silence in the Meditation Hall
Wear modest attire - you may wear a robe to cover up if you are wearing shorts
Turn off cell phones
Remove shoes and hats
Do not step over Dharma books and images
Do not place prayer books or Dharma images on the floor
Do not point the bottom of your feet toward the altar or teacher
Thank you for respecting these traditions.

Dr. Cheryl Fraser will meet with individual Sangha members to discuss their personal practice at 9:15 am and 9:35 am on the Saturdays that she is teaching at Buddha House. To book an appointment, call Sunny at  250-754-6322  (before 7 pm please) by Wednesday and leave your name and phone number for confirmation. These interviews are offered in the spirit of generosity - that is, on a Dana basis - by the teacher. If you feel moved to express your gratitude, please place offerings in the Dana box.

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Sangha Notes

8/2/2013

0 Comments

 






Sangha Notes

Saturday, August 3, 2013 - Regular meditation practice.




In keeping with our respect of the meditation hall, we request that you follow the following TEMPLE ETIQUETTE: 

Please… 

Practice silence in the Meditation Hall 

Wear modest attire - no shorts 

Turn off cell phones 

Remove shoes and hats 

Do not step over Dharma books and images 

Do not place prayer books or Dharma images on the floor 

Do not point the bottom of your feet toward the altar or teacher 

Thank you for respecting these traditions.




Dr. Cheryl Fraser will meet with individual Sangha members to discuss their personal practice at 9:15 am and 9:35 am on the Saturdays that she is teaching at Buddha House. To book an appointment, call Sunny at 250-754-6322 (before 7 pm please) by Wednesday and leave your name and phone number for confirmation.




Upcoming Meeting Schedule

Saturday, August 3 from 10 AM - 12 PM 

Regular meditation practice




Saturday, August 10 from 10 AM - 12 PM 

_Dr. Cheryl Fraser gives a Dharma talk _




Saturday, August 17 from 10 AM - 12 PM 

_Dr. Cheryl Fraser gives a Dharma talk _




Workshops & Retreats

August 23: Evening teaching at Denman Island. Details to follow. 

_____________________________________________




Friday evening Sept. 6 – Sunday afternoon Sept. 8 

Retreat with Dr. Cheryl Fraser




Living in the United States of Happy Mind




Location: The Hermitage on Denman island 

Register: www.dharmafellowship.org/hermitage/retreat-schedule.htm 

www.dharmafellowship.org/pdf/DharmaFellowship_Retreat_Info_Brochure.pdf




This weekend retreat will focus on developing the four wholesome mental states, known in Buddha Dharma as the Brama Viharas, or the Divine Abodes. These four psychologically healthy, happy mind states are loving kindness, compassion, empathetic joy, and equanimity. This silent retreat will have periods of vipassana (insight) meditation practice and periods of guided meditation practice on each of the four divine abodes. Daily Dharma talks/interviews with the teacher. The emphasis will be on opening the heart and thus allowing a deeper settling of the mind. 

_____________________________________________




Dr. Cheryl Fraser’s Bio 

Cheryl Fraser Ph.D. has been studying Buddha Dharma for 20 years. Her root teacher was the venerable Namgyal Rinpoche. Other teachers include Lama Mark Webber, Phillip Moffit, and Adrianne Ross. Cheryl studies and practices in both the Tibetan Vajrayana and the Theravaden Vipassana traditions. She is the resident teacher for the Nanaimo Buddha House and she teaches retreats at the Hermitage on Denman Island and elsewhere. She is a clinical psychologist in private practice, and she draws extensively from Western science and psychology, applying even the more complex Dharma's to "real life". Cheryl writes a column for Best Health magazine. She teaches Dharma in an approachable, colourful and humourous style. She invites us to examine the question: How can I be happy for no reason. 

_____________________________________________




Saturday, September 28 from 10 AM to 3:30 PM 

A teaching with Tibetan monk Lama Geshe YongDong 

Tibetan View of Life




Location: The Buddha House 

Suggested donation: $25 

More information: yangilhamo@gmail.com

You often hear that someone lived a good life, but rarely hear that a person had a good death.




The book The Tibetan Book of Living & Dying, was written not only as a means of help & guidance for the dying, but also as a guide for living, with valuable advice on how to live without the fear of death and the unknown.




If we fear death we cannot really choose life. We are, instead, trying to figure out how to avoid death, rather than focusing on how to live passionately!




Geshe YongDong's qualities of wisdom, compassion & humor will help students to recognize & eliminate some of the fear & myths that surround death.




Students will learn methods of preparation that teach how to take control over our lives & fears. How we can give unconditional love, acceptance & joy to others, to live peacefully & fully, & to end our lives without fear or regret when the time comes.



0 Comments

Sangha Notes

7/25/2013

0 Comments

 
Sangha Notes
Saturday, July 27, 2013 - Regular meditation practice.


In keeping with our respect of the meditation hall, we request that you follow the following TEMPLE ETIQUETTE: 
Please… 
Practice silence in the Meditation Hall 
Wear modest attire - no shorts 
Turn off cell phones 
Remove shoes and hats 
Do not step over Dharma books and images 
Do not place prayer books or Dharma images on the floor 
Do not point the bottom of your feet toward the altar or teacher 
Thank you for respecting these traditions.


Dr. Cheryl Fraser will meet with individual Sangha members to discuss their personal practice at 9:15 am and 9:35 am on the days that she is teaching at Buddha House. To book an appointment, call Sunny at 250-754-6322 and leave your name and phone number for confirmation.


Upcoming Meeting Schedule
Saturday, July 27 from 10 AM - 12 PM 
Regular meditation practice


Saturday, August 3 from 10 AM - 12 PM 
Regular meditation practice


Saturday, August 10 from 10 AM - 12 PM 
_Dr. Cheryl Fraser gives a Dharma talk _


Saturday, August 17 from 10 AM - 12 PM 
_Dr. Cheryl Fraser gives a Dharma talk _


Workshops & Retreats
August 23: Evening teaching at Denman Island. Details to follow. 
_____________________________________________


Friday evening Sept. 6 – Sunday afternoon Sept. 8 
Retreat with Dr. Cheryl Fraser


Living in the United States of Happy Mind


Location: The Hermitage on Denman island 
Register: www.dharmafellowship.org/hermitage/retreat-schedule.htm 
www.dharmafellowship.org/pdf/DharmaFellowship_Retreat_Info_Brochure.pdf


This weekend retreat will focus on developing the four wholesome mental states, known in Buddha Dharma as the Brama Viharas, or the Divine Abodes. These four psychologically healthy, happy mind states are loving kindness, compassion, empathetic joy, and equanimity. This silent retreat will have periods of vipassana (insight) meditation practice and periods of guided meditation practice on each of the four divine abodes. Daily Dharma talks/interviews with the teacher. The emphasis will be on opening the heart and thus allowing a deeper settling of the mind. 
_____________________________________________


Dr. Cheryl Fraser’s Bio 
Cheryl Fraser Ph.D. has been studying Buddha Dharma for 20 years. Her root teacher was the venerable Namgyal Rinpoche. Other teachers include Lama Mark Webber, Phillip Moffit, and Adrianne Ross. Cheryl studies and practices in both the Tibetan Vajrayana and the Theravaden Vipassana traditions. She is the resident teacher for the Nanaimo Buddha House and she teaches retreats at the Hermitage on Denman Island and elsewhere. She is a clinical psychologist in private practice, and she draws extensively from Western science and psychology, applying even the more complex Dharma's to "real life". Cheryl writes a column for Best Health magazine. She teaches Dharma in an approachable, colourful and humourous style. She invites us to examine the question: How can I be happy for no reason. 
_____________________________________________


Saturday, September 28 from 10 AM to 3:30 PM 
A teaching with Tibetan monk Lama Geshe YongDong 
Tibetan View of Life


Location: The Buddha House 
Suggested donation: $25 
More information: yangilhamo@gmail.com
You often hear that someone lived a good life, but rarely hear that a person had a good death.


The book The Tibetan Book of Living & Dying, was written not only as a means of help & guidance for the dying, but also as a guide for living, with valuable advice on how to live without the fear of death and the unknown.


If we fear death we cannot really choose life. We are, instead, trying to figure out how to avoid death, rather than focusing on how to live passionately!


Geshe YongDong's qualities of wisdom, compassion & humor will help students to recognize & eliminate some of the fear & myths that surround death.


Students will learn methods of preparation that teach how to take control over our lives & fears. How we can give unconditional love, acceptance & joy to others, to live peacefully & fully, & to end our lives without fear or regret when the time comes.


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Sangha Newsletter June 27, 2013

6/29/2013

0 Comments

 



Sangha NotesSaturday's teaching by Dr. Cheryl Fraser will be on compassion. There will also be a White Tara meditation practice.
There is still time to register for Cheryl's retreat July 24th - 31st. It would be great to see a Buddha House contingent at the retreat. Go tohttp://www.dharmafellowship.org/hermitage/retreat-schedule.htm for more information.
Please note that Wednesday night Dharma Books at 40 Kennedy Street is cancelled until further notice.
As a gentil reminder, we are practicing noble silence in meditation hall in the upstairs of the Buddha house. As such, we are requesting the talking is kept to a minimum.
Ever wonder what to bring to a meditation sit or teaching? We have foam pads for everyone to sit on, as well as a few cushions; however, if you truly wish to be comfortable, please bring your own cushion, meditation bench, or pillow to sit on. It can also be a bit chilly in the meditation hall, so please feel free to bring a meditation blanket or shawl.
Upcoming Meeting ScheduleSaturday, June 29 from 10 AM - 12 PM
Dharma talk with Dr. Cheryl Fraser
The topic will be compassion, and there will be a White Tara practice.

Saturday, July 6 from 10 AM - 12 PM
Regular meditation practice
Saturday, July 13 from 10 AM - 12 PM
Regular meditation practice
Saturday, July 20 from 10 AM - 12 PM
Dharma Talk with Dr. Cheryl Fraser
Saturday, July 27 from 10 AM - 12 PM
Regular meditation practice
Dharma Books:
Wednesdays,
7 PM at 40 Kennedy Street
Cancelled until further notice.
Workshops & RetreatsWednesday July 24 – Wednesday July 31, 2013 (8 days)
Retreat with Dr. Cheryl Fraser

Stillness, Compassion, and Wisdom
Location: The Hermitage on Denman island
Register:
www.dharmafellowship.org/hermitage/retreat-schedule.htm
www.dharmafellowship.org/pdf/DharmaFellowship_Retreat_Info_Brochure.pdf
The Buddha was a great psychologist. He taught us to face life as it is. Life is filled with both joy and sorrow, gain and loss. The teaching of Buddha Dharma help us to understand and directly experience that while pain is inevitable, suffering is optional. States of fear, anxiety, sadness and discontent occur when we are not in alignment with reality: things change, and we need to change with them. A mind that comes to know this truth is a calmer, happier mind, and this creates a more compassionate, peaceful person. This silent meditation retreat will have periods of Vipassana (insight) and Shamatha (calm abiding) practice. There will be some guided meditation periods. Yoga will be offered to support and deepen the meditation practice. There will be daily Dharma talks and interviews with the teacher. Suitable for both beginning and advanced meditators.
_____________________________________________
Friday evening Sept. 6 – Sunday afternoon Sept. 8
Retreat with Dr. Cheryl Fraser


Living in the United States of Happy Mind
Location: The Hermitage on Denman island
Register:
www.dharmafellowship.org/hermitage/retreat-schedule.htm
www.dharmafellowship.org/pdf/DharmaFellowship_Retreat_Info_Brochure.pdf
This weekend retreat will focus on developing the four wholesome mental states, known in Buddha Dharma as the Brama Viharas, or the Divine Abodes. These four psychologically healthy, happy mind states are loving kindness, compassion, empathetic joy, and equanimity. This silent retreat will have periods of vipassana (insight) meditation practice and periods of guided meditation practice on each of the four divine abodes. Daily Dharma talks/interviews with the teacher. The emphasis will be on opening the heart and thus allowing a deeper settling of the mind.
_____________________________________________
Dr. Cheryl Fraser’s Bio
Cheryl Fraser Ph.D. has been studying Buddha Dharma for 20 years. Her root teacher was the venerable Namgyal Rinpoche. Other teachers include Lama Mark Webber, Phillip Moffit, and Adrianne Ross. Cheryl studies and practices in both the Tibetan Vajrayana and the Theravaden Vipassana traditions. She is the resident teacher for the Nanaimo Buddha House and she teaches retreats at the Hermitage on Denman Island and elsewhere. She is a clinical psychologist in private practice, and she draws extensively from Western science and psychology, applying even the more complex Dharma's to "real life". Cheryl writes a column for Best Health magazine. She teaches Dharma in an approachable, colourful and humourous style. She invites us to examine the question: How can I be happy for no reason.

_____________________________________________
Saturday, September 28 from 10 AM to 3:30 PM
A teaching with Tibetan monk Lama Geshe YongDong

Tibetan View of Life
Location: The Buddha House
Suggested donation: $25
More information:
yangilhamo@gmail.com
You often hear that someone lived a good life, but rarely hear that a person had a good death.
The book The Tibetan Book of Living & Dying, was written not only as a means of help & guidance for the dying, but also as a guide for living, with valuable advice on how to live without the fear of death and the unknown.
If we fear death we cannot really choose life. We are, instead, trying to figure out how to avoid death, rather than focusing on how to live passionately!
Geshe YongDong's qualities of wisdom, compassion & humor will help students to recognize & eliminate some of the fear & myths that surround death.
Students will learn methods of preparation that teach how to take control over our lives & fears. How we can give unconditional love, acceptance & joy to others, to live peacefully & fully, & to end our lives without fear or regret.
 


0 Comments

Sangha Newsletter June 19, 2013

6/19/2013

0 Comments

 




Sangha Notes
Thank you to everyone who attended the one-day retreat on June 16th. It was a beautiful day. There were silent meditations, a meal in noble silence, and Dharma talks. Dr. Cheryl Fraser would like to thank Josephine for her wonderful service to the Dharma and for creating the opportunity for the retreat.

There is still time to register for Cheryl's retreat July 24th - 31st. It would be great to see a Buddha House contingent at the retreat. Go to http://www.dharmafellowship.org/hermitage/retreat-schedule.htm for more information.

As a gentil reminder, we are practicing noble silence in meditation hall in the upstairs of the temple. As such, we are requesting the talking is kept to a minimum.

Dharma Books continues on Wednesdays at 7 PM at 40 Kennedy Street.

Ever wonder what to bring to a meditation sit or teaching? We have foam pads for everyone to sit on, as well as a few cushions; however, if you truly wish to be comfortable, please bring your own cushion, meditation bench, or pillow to sit on. It can also be a bit chilly in the meditation hall, so please feel free to bring a meditation blanket or shawl.

Upcoming Meeting Schedule
Saturday, June 22 from 10 AM - 12 PM
Regular meditation practice

Saturday, June 29 from 10 AM - 12 PM
Dharma talk with Dr. Cheryl Fraser
The topic will be compassion, and there will be a White Tara practice.

Saturday, July 6 from 10 AM - 12 PM
Regular meditation practice

Saturday, July 13 from 10 AM - 12 PM
Regular meditation practice

Saturday, July 20 from 10 AM - 12 PM
Dharma Talk with Dr. Cheryl Fraser

Saturday, July 27 from 10 AM - 12 PM
Regular meditation practice

Dharma Books:
Wednesdays, 7 PM at 40 Kennedy Street.

Workshops & Retreats
Wednesday July 24 – Wednesday July 31, 2013 (8 days)
Retreat with Dr. Cheryl Fraser
Stillness, Compassion, and Wisdom

Location: The Hermitage on Denman island
Register: www.dharmafellowship.org/hermitage/retreat-schedule.htm
www.dharmafellowship.org/pdf/DharmaFellowship_Retreat_Info_Brochure.pdf

The Buddha was a great psychologist. He taught us to face life as it is. Life is filled with both joy and sorrow, gain and loss. The teaching of Buddha Dharma help us to understand and directly experience that while pain is inevitable, suffering is optional. States of fear, anxiety, sadness and discontent occur when we are not in alignment with reality: things change, and we need to change with them. A mind that comes to know this truth is a calmer, happier mind, and this creates a more compassionate, peaceful person. This silent meditation retreat will have periods of Vipassana (insight) and Shamatha (calm abiding) practice. There will be some guided meditation periods. Yoga will be offered to support and deepen the meditation practice. There will be daily Dharma talks and interviews with the teacher. Suitable for both beginning and advanced meditators.

_____________________________________________

Friday evening Sept. 6 – Sunday afternoon Sept. 8
Retreat with Dr. Cheryl Fraser

Living in the United States of Happy Mind

Location: The Hermitage on Denman island
Register: www.dharmafellowship.org/hermitage/retreat-schedule.htm
www.dharmafellowship.org/pdf/DharmaFellowship_Retreat_Info_Brochure.pdf

This weekend retreat will focus on developing the four wholesome mental states, known in Buddha Dharma as the Brama Viharas, or the Divine Abodes. These four psychologically healthy, happy mind states are loving kindness, compassion, empathetic joy, and equanimity. This silent retreat will have periods of vipassana (insight) meditation practice and periods of guided meditation practice on each of the four divine abodes. Daily Dharma talks/interviews with the teacher. The emphasis will be on opening the heart and thus allowing a deeper settling of the mind.

_____________________________________________

Dr. Cheryl Fraser’s Bio
Cheryl Fraser Ph.D. has been studying Buddha Dharma for 20 years. Her root teacher was the venerable Namgyal Rinpoche. Other teachers include Lama Mark Webber, Phillip Moffit, and Adrianne Ross. Cheryl studies and practices in both the Tibetan Vajrayana and the Theravaden Vipassana traditions. She is the resident teacher for the Nanaimo Buddha House and she teaches retreats at the Hermitage on Denman Island and elsewhere. She is a clinical psychologist in private practice, and she draws extensively from Western science and psychology, applying even the more complex Dharma's to "real life". Cheryl writes a column for Best Health magazine. She teaches Dharma in an approachable, colourful and humourous style. She invites us to examine the question: How can I be happy for no reason.
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