What we’re about
We are a peer lead group all about Buddhist practice, discussion and inquiry. An open door for Buddhists of all lineages, as well as all who are interested in the teachings of the Buddha.
The principles the Buddha taught 2,500 years ago have led to happier lives for countless human beings, and apply today more than ever to reduce stress and uncertainties, and to provide peace and mental stability. We believe all beings are the same in their desire to be happy and not to suffer needlessly. Buddhism teaches that the mind is the cause of most of our problems, but can eliminate them, as well, through study and meditation.
We invite beginners and experienced Buddhist practitioners to join us in a relaxed atmosphere - with no obligation whatsoever. We only seek happiness, understanding, and compassion for ourselves and for others.
We begin our meetings at 6:30 pm with a 30 minute meditation followed by a dharma talk and group discussion until 8: 00. Please arrive on time. Because of county-imposed security regulations, we must lock the entrance door when our meeting begins.
We recommend that newcomers examine the 4 Noble Truths and the 8-fold Noble Path of the Buddha before attending one of our presentations and discussions, or attend one of our 'Introduction to Buddhism' meetings when announced on this website - and we invite those who are not familiar with meditation to post on our discussion page a request for brief instruction from one of our experienced practitioners, usually before the beginning of a meeting.
Finally, to remain a member you must attend a meeting or visit our Meetup web page at least every 7 months.
SPECIAL NOTE: Until such time that we can meet again in person, we conduct sangha by ZOOM. The room ID and information is listed on each event. In order that we may all receive optimal benefit from these sessions, we kindly ask you follow the following etiquette:
- The room opens 15 minutes prior to the start of the meeting. (6:15) for social interaction.
- Meditation starts promptly at 6:30 pm. If you arrive after that time, please meditate until one of the hosts is available to admit you following our group meditation.
- Please keep your audio on mute until asked to unmute by the host.\
- We like to be patient, but please know what you plan to say and make sure your comments are on-topic before addressing the group. Limit your contributions to two minutes
- The meeting ends after the three breaths.
Upcoming events (3)
See all- "Being Right Here"Link visible for attendees
Book Study: "Being Right Here: A Dzogchen Treasure Text of Nuden Dorje
Entitled The Mirror of Clear Meaning" by James Low.Please Read:
- READING SEGMENT TO BE ANNOUNCED
As you read through this text, please mark any noteworthy sections you would like to share with the group. In order to have the benefit of all our perspectives as we read through this book together, we ask that each of you purchase this text. If you are unable to afford this, money will be used from our sangha funds to assist you. Please send a message to [email protected] to begin this process.
If you do not wish to read the book, you are welcome to join us and audit the events as a quiet observer; of course, questions on the text being discussed are always welcome.
About the book:
This text renders a very clear and authentic account of the view and essential meditation of Dzogchen, the practice of nondual experience.
Dzogchen, often considered the highest practice of Tibetan Buddhism, is an ancient system of realizing one's own authentic nature. Carrying on an unbroken line of transmission, this text presents a traditional consideration of the system's key points. It speaks to the heart of the human condition, highlighting the need to integrate all the aspects of one's being. In the process, the practitioner learns to overcome fear, anxiety and denial.
The commentary explains pivotal practices and addresses difficulties that arise in meditation. It provides both an expansion of the traditional concepts embodied in he text and an examination of how they can function in contemporary life.
- If you would like to purchase this book, sources can be found at this link: To purchase
- In case you missed the video that introduced us to the subject of our current text.
Here is a LINK James Low teaching for students on the view and essential meditation of Dzogchen the practice of nondual experience. - mentioned in class on Tantra section Links to Tantra Sadhanas by Lama Lena