INTRODUCTION
There is lots of material available in books and on the internet on Buddhism. Unfortunately some of this material is misleading as it is limited by the author's bias, orientation and degree of understanding. For instance, there is material that reflects ethnic traditions or folk beliefs in miracles. A person who simply wants guidance for leading a more fulfilling and happy life may not find this helpful at all.
This course is focused on integrating some basic practices and being able to use them in our personal lives. The material on the reading list is there to be understood and applied to daily life, and not just learned to repeat back as we have all been conditioned to do from our school days. For this reason it is offered only by private consultation. Consultation is available on request during meditation periods, either in the course of weekly sessions, or monthly mindfulness days. To finish the course, each item on the list must be discussed until it is clear during these private meetings.
However, your goal can also be to consider this an ongoing opportunity to deepen your understanding.
If you wish to take this course:
* Sign up by simply declaring your intention.
* You can take
up the material in any order.
*
You can proceed at your own speed.
* Ask for consultation time on a day of your choice before the session begins.
* When all the items on the list have been satisfactorily clarified, the course is finished, and a certificate is available for those who request it.
READING AND LISTENING LIST
1. Thich Nhat Hanh DVD on walking meditation.
Published by Sounds True and available from the MMC library.
2.
Choose any two mindfulness songs from Basket of Plums, Clear Peaceful Moon, or Happiness Makes You Beautiful (CD's available from MMC) and learn the words so you can use them in your practice.
3. Heart of the Buddha's Teaching by Thich Nhat Hanh. Available from the MMC library, but strongly recommended for purchase.
4. Another book by Thich Nhat Hanh. Please choose from the following:
Buddha Mind, Buddha Body
Peace is Every Step
Old Path, White Clouds.
