Tonglen Practice Day 2016

TONGLEN PRACTICE DAY

Tonglen (giving and taking) is a powerful practice of wisdom and compassion. This method comes from the Seven Point Mind Training teachings, based on experiences of revered masters such as Nagarjuna, Shantideva and Langri Tampa. Tonglen profoundly challenges our habitual, self-centered experience which is founded on delusion. It is a potent method of developing bodhicittha, the fully awakened, joyful heart.

“In short, I will offer, directly and indirectly, every benefit and happiness to all beings, my mothers. I will practice in secret taking upon myself all their harmful actions and sufferings.” — The Eight Verses of Thought Transformation, Langri Tampa

This practice is an opportunity to see how understanding interdependence leads to deep compassion and how that can set a basis for experiencing the true nature of “no self, no other, no problem.”

Shantideva: “One who wishes swiftly to protect oneself and others should engage in the secret and holy practice of exchanging self for others.”

“Thus, venerable compassionate gurus, inspire me so that all negativities, obscurations and sufferings of mother beings ripen upon me right now and I give my happiness and virtue to others, securing all wanderers in bliss.” — Guru Puja by the First Panchen Lama, Lobsang Chokyi Gyaltsen

Who could imagine that taking on others' suffering could lead to contentment? It’s unfathomable, yet it works if we work it.

Together, we will use the three wisdoms of studying, contemplating and meditating on tonglen. There will be time for silent meditation and for open discussion. Please join us in the interesting and joyous exploration.