Retreat Dharma Talks
at Insight Meditation Community of Berkeley
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IMCB Regular Talks
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Insight Meditation Community of Berkeley
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2008-08-28
Bodhisattva's Way Of Life - part 4: Using Our Intelligence
53:55
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James Baraz
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The chapter we'll be exploring is Awareness, what Pema Chodron calls Using Our Intelligence. It has also been translated as Carefulness. The theme is how we can use wise attention to prevent us from getting caught in afflictive emotions (kilesas or kleshas). Even when we know better we may still find ourselves going down a road of action we will later regret. This chapter is how as bodhisattvas we deepen our commitment to refrain from unskillful action.
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2008-10-23
Bodhisattva's Way Of Life #9: Dedication Of Merit
55:46
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James Baraz
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This week I will complete the Shantideva series with his final chapter on the power of dedicating your actions as an act of generosity. We often end the sittings or a period of practice by sharing any merit for the benefit of all beings. This practice can be used in very simple but potent ways as a method for brining a heartfelt sincerity to your practice for the benefit of specific individuals. For instance if you’re trying to change a habit, offering the merit of that wholesome change to someone who is having a hard time in their life.
This practice of dedicating merit both connects you with others and motivates you beyond mere self-improvement. We’ll be exploring just how this can work in our daily life to give energy and enthusiasm to our practice.
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2008-11-06
Change
54:34
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James Baraz
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James Baraz talks about the stunning changes that have already taken place with the election of Barack Obama.
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2008-11-13
Making A Difference Together: Deepening Sangha Bonds
55:34
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James Baraz
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A discussion with community member Janet Keyes about a proposal to create a community support network with the intention of helping the IMCB sangha grow in caring and connection. The evening includes an invitation to attend an introductory meeting to help identify priorities and move forward in creating a more caring community. The talk also includes James reading a moving letter from Barack Obama to a 4-year old girl.
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