On Sept 13th, we listened to an episode from The Zen Studies Podcast by Rev. Domyo Burk, in which she invites us to take a compassionate look at one of the most familiar challenges in meditation: the wandering mind. Rather than seeing a busy mind as a problem to overcome, she encourages us to examine our understanding of a “quiet mind.”

On Aug 9th, we listened to a recorded talk by Ajahn Amaro. In this Dharma talk, the teacher explains how true non-attachment — letting go of self-centered striving and craving, can free us to engage with our lives, our practice, and the world with greater clarity, compassion, and wisdom.

On June 14th, we listened to a recorded talk by Ven. Thubten Chodron. In this Dharma talk, the Venerable examines the Buddhist understanding of consciousness, focusing on the distinction between conceptual and non-conceptual consciousness and how these different ways of knowing shape our experience of reality.

On Mother’s Day, May 10, 2026, we listened to a podcast conversation with Sylvia Boorstein, a mother and a Dharma teacher. She discussed the importance of teaching by example, learning how one’s own mind works, recognizing the fear masked by anger, and the lesson we should learn from the GPS software.

“Zazen is not meditation”, the Rev. Fujita proclaims, distinguishing zazen, in which one should sit without effort and without a goal, from “meditation” which is characterized by exerting purposeful effort in pursuit of a goal. The Reverend walked us through ways of thinking about posture, breath, and mental attitude to help us have a new perspective on zazen.

Last Sunday we listened to a talk by Dharma teacher, Joseph Goldstein on the cultivation of Metta (Loving-Kindness). He explains that Metta is a simple, unconditional wish for happiness and well-being for all, supported by qualities of straightforwardness, gentleness, and humility, which foster openness, kindness, and the readiness to learn. By focusing on the good in ourselves and others, we can generate feelings of gratitude and forgiveness, further enriching our practice.

In her talk, entitled “Living with the Fundamental Truth of Impermanence,” Chozen Roshi emphasizes that impermanence is a fundamental feature of the world. Instead of rejecting the experiences of impermanence, we must instead accept them. This doesn’t mean that we become cold and uncaring – it’s okay to grieve our losses. But we must also let the grief be impermanent, and learn to rest in awareness and just be present. This moment right now is true, and it is enough.

On Sunday, November 9, 2025, we shared an interview with meditation teacher Tara Brach, titled “Waking Up from the Trance of Unworthiness,” in which she explores the roots of shame, the path of radical self-acceptance, and how awakening from the cycle of self-judgment reveals the freedom of no-self.

On October 12, 2025, after meditation, we honored the recently departed teacher Dr. Larry Ward (1948-2025), and shared one of his last Dharma talk on “Civic Dharma,” offering guidance on how to live the principles of Dharma in our public lives; how we might reimagine our personal and collective responsibilities as citizens through the lens of spiritual practice.

Last Sunday we watched a talk by Dharma teacher, Guo Gu, on “Principles on Managing Stress.” He distinguished between the medical view of stress and the
Buddhist concept of vexations—emotional afflictions rooted in attachment and self-centeredness. He emphasized that stress arises from within, shaped by our perceptions and habitual patterns, and introduced four toolkits to manage stress.

On Aug. 10th, we listened to a Dharma talk from the Venerable Ayyā Somā, teaches us that sickness and the pain that goes with it is inevitable, but suffering is not. Practice is always available to us, even while we are ill. Instead of concentration, observe the body and mind, and see impermanence. It’s always the right time to practice, whether you are sick or healthy.

On July 13, 2025, after meditation, we watched an interview with Brother Phap Luu of Plum Village on the practice of Mindful Eating, titled “Rewire Your Relationship to Food.” The teacher shares how the practice of mindful eating helps us reconnect with the deeper nature of what we consume, and can radically transform our relationships with food, the body, the community, other beings, and the planet.

On June 8th, 2025, after meditation, we listened to a Dharma talk by the Venerable Ajahn Sādaro, teaches that the path to true humility is through working on our conceit, and the root of conceit is “I am”, the holding onto a self. Recognizing that all things are brought about by causes and conditions and are changeable will help us to be more flexible in our views.

On May 11, 2025, after meditation, we watched a Dharma talk recording by Rev. angel Kyodo williams, about our practice of “Transforming the Mind,” and the lesson of the Lojong slogan “Don’t Expect Applause.” She reminds us that transformation isn’t about acquiring something new, but clearing what obscures our natural alignment. In Japanese, “mind” includes the body. To train the mind is to train how we live, feel, and relate—without expecting applause, and without bypassing suffering. It’s an invitation to meet life directly, as it is.

On April 13, 2025, after meditation, we watched a Dharma talk recording by Sensei Wendy Dainin Lau of the Upaya Zen Center, titled: “Spin Cycle for the Logical Mind.” She described how the Diamond Sutra uses an antilogic approach to expound on the concept of emptiness, helping us break apart our attachment to self, human identity, sentient beings, and lifespan. She shares how even our most noble intentions can become near enemies when they contain notions of separate selves and the importance of grounding our practice in daily life.

On March 30, 2025, Ven. Thubten Lamsel joined us via Zoom to lead meditation and offer a Dharma talk on the topic of bodhicitta—the wish to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. She spoke on how this motivation, without the attachment to “self,” lies at the heart of the Buddhist path, and how it can guide our actions, speech, and thoughts throughout daily life. Drawing on examples from monastic training and simple practices like mindful eating, she shared how even ordinary activities become powerful causes for awakening when rooted in compassion. The talk emphasized bodhicitta as both the source and expression of our deepest wisdom and connection to others.

On March 9, 2025, after meditation, we shared a recorded Dharma Talk by Dr. Larry Ward, on “Cultivating Mindful Consumption of the Media,” offering guidance on “Living in the World with Your Heart Undisturbed.” Dr. Ward explores how we can engage with the world and the media without losing our inner peace and deeper purpose.

On February 9th, 2025, after meditation, we listened to a Dharma talk by Ven. Ajahn Kalyano, explaining what a peaceful mind is, and how to cultivate it using mindfulness practice that focus on the recollection of impermanence.

On January 12, 2025, after meditation, we listened to a Dharma talk recording by Insight Meditation teacher, Jack Kornfield, where he delves into the second aspect of the Noble Eightfold Path: “Right Attitude, Wise Aspiration, Mindful Thought.”

On November 10, 2024, we listened to excerpts of a recorded Dharma talk by Roshi Joan Halifax, on cultivating wise hope with “Imagination and the Bodhisattva Attitude.” Drawing from personal reflections and Buddhist teachings, Halifax invites us to embrace a hopeful yet grounded perspective that empowers us to act in the face of adversity

On October 13, 2024, after meditation, we listened to excerpts of a recorded Dharma talk by teacher Fred Eppsteiner, on “The Three Fierce Mantras” — three simple yet profound and powerful sentences of teachings by 12th Century Tibetan Buddhist ascetic, Tsangpa Gyare, that can cut through our anxiety, and confusion in life

On Sunday, September 8, 2024, after meditation we listened to three different short talks about Right View. Right View is one of the practices of the Noble Eightfold Path, which […]

On Sunday, August 11, 2024, after meditation, we watched four video clips from interviews of Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo on the topic of our “Buddha Nature” and how practice can help […]

On Sunday, July 14, 2024, after meditation, we listened to three short Dharma talks given by Guo Gu (Dr. Jimmy Yu) — a teacher in the Chinese Chan Buddhism lineage […]

On Sunday, June 9, 2024, after meditation, we listened to the Dharma talk “Practicing Restraint to Make Room for the World“ from Myoshin Kate McCandless about the word “tzimtzum”. The […]

On Sunday, May 12, 2024, after meditation we listened to a Dharma talk titled “Healing Blocks of Suffering in the Individual and Collective Consciousness“ by meditation teacher, Kaira Jewel Lingo. […]

On Sunday, April 14, 2024, after meditation, we listened to a Dharma talk by Ven. Ajahn Brahm on the topic of “Am I Good Enough?“ Often, no matter how much […]

On Sunday, March 10, 2024, after meditation, we watched a talk “The Four Noble Truths in Context“ from Ṭhānissaro Bhikkhu. In this talk, aimed at practitioners who have previously encountered […]

On Sunday, February 11, 2024, after meditation we listened to a talk on “The Five Remembrances“ by meditation teacher, Devin Berry. Inspired by recent health concerns and the loss of […]

On Sunday, January 14, 2024, after meditation we listened to a talk on “Real Happiness at Work“ by meditation teacher and author, Sharon Salzberg. Salzberg defines “real happiness” as an […]

On Sunday, December 10, 2023, after meditation we listened to a talk from Dōju Layton about Buddhism and War, and the practice of non-violence. Dōju was moved to give this […]

On Sunday, November 11, 2023, after meditation, we listened to segments of a public Dharma talk from Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche titled “Meditation and Going Beyond Mindfulness – A Secular Perspective“. […]

On Sunday, October 8, 2023, after meditation, we listened to a Dharma talk from Tan Ajahn Kalyano titled “Upekkhā (equanimity)“. This talk discusses equanimity, the fourth of the four brahmavihārā […]

On Sunday, September 10th, 2023, after meditation we shared a talk by meditation teacher, Tara Brach, where she explored the topic of “Awakening through Difficult Emotions: The Poison is the […]

On August 13, 2023, after meditation, we shared a talk by Dharma teacher Fred Eppsteiner, on the teaching of Yogācāra, titled “Yogācāra: A Concise Instruction for Practitioners.” Yogācāra, often referred […]

On July 9, 2023, after meditation, we met online for a Teachers’ Corner session about “The Practice of Six Transcendence.” We listened to a collection of excerpts from a Dharma […]

On Sunday, June 11, 2023, after meditation we listened to a Dharma talk from Rev. Hōgetsu Laurie Belzer entitled “Equanimity in our Whirling World“. In this talk, Hōgetsu introduces the […]

On Sunday, May 14th, 2023, after meditation we watched excerpts from a Talk by Chan teacher, Dr. Rebecca Li, about cultivating compassion and loving-kindness for ourselves. The teacher mentioned that […]

On Sunday, March 12th, 2023, after meditation we watched a Dharma talk from Jack Kornfield entitled “The Most Basic Truths: Gateways to Freedom“. In this talk, Mr. Kornfield discusses a […]

On Sunday, February 12, 2023, after meditation, we listened to a Dharma talk by Soto Zen teacher, Zenju Earthlyn Manuel, on “Boundlessness.” Zenju first clarified that boundlessness could not be […]

On Sunday, January 8, 2023, after meditation we listened to a Dharma talk podcast by Vipassana teacher, Jack Kornfield, on “Seeing Anew.” Starting by quoting Shunryū Suziki Roshi: “the goal […]

On Sunday, December 11, 2022, after meditation we watched a Dharma talk from Bhante Sujatha entitled “A Buddhist Approach to Handling Difficult Thoughts and Emotions.” In his talk, Bhante Sujatha […]

On Sunday, November 13, 2022, after meditation, we listened to the talk “Gratitude as a Dharma Gate“ by Dharma teacher Domyo Burk. In her talk, Domyo explained how gratitude could […]

On October 9th, 2022, after meditation, we watched a Dharma lecture by Ajahn Brahm titled: “Facing Difficult Situations in Life.” Ajahn Brahm taught that when we face crises and other […]

On Sunday, September 11, 2022, after meditation we listened to a Dharma talk from Issan Koyama offering insights into two kōans, the Wild Fox kōan and Rinzai’s Blind Ass. In […]

On August 14, 2022, after meditation, we learned from Dharma teacher Pema Chödrön about the concept of “shenpa”, how it related to our suffering, our feeling of being “stuck”, and […]

On July 10, 2022, after meditation, the group watched three short Dharma teachings by Her Eminence Mindrolling Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche, all of which were given in response to practitioners’ questions, […]

On June 12, 2022, after meditation we listened to a Dharma talk – “Zazen is Not About Progress” – from Shōhaku Okumura about the difference between a goal and a […]

On May 8, 2022, after meditation, we shared a collection of short talks by Chozen Bays Roshi with practical advice on the most basic practice how-tos: “From Sitting Postures to […]

On April 10, 2022, after meditation, we shared a talk on the Tibetan Lojong teaching of: “Turning Adversity Into the Path of Awakening” by Fred Eppsteiner. In his talk, Fred also […]

On March 13, 2022, after meditation, we honored Women History Month by sharing a talk from Ven. Tathālokā on the topic of “The Role of Bhikkhunis.” After meditation, we briefly shared the […]

On February 13, 2022, after meditation, we met online for a Teachers’ Corner session to learn from the recently departed Zen Master Thich Nhất Hạnh about the practice of “Mindfulness”. […]

On January 9, 2022, after meditation, we studied the topic of “The Four Great Vows.” Before watching the Dharma Talk by Zen Master Bon Soeng on The Four Great Vows, […]

On December 11, 2021, after meditation, we listened to excerpts from Dr. Larry Ward’s talk titled “Unshakable Deliverance of the Mind”, on how to practice with the Five Hindrances. Dr. Ward explained that the goal of our practice is to achieve “a mind that is unshakable” and a mind that is “delivered… from itself.” To achieve unshakable deliverance, we must develop an awareness of our mind, and the power to reshape it toward compassion and kindness, and this process calls for us to practice with the Five Hindrances.

On November 13, 2021, after meditation we listened to a talk from the Venerable Bhikku Bodhi about a piece of the Buddha’s advice for our speech. In particular, the Buddha […]

On October 9, 2021, after meditation we watched a Dharma talk by Ayya Santussika titled: “Giving It All You’ve Got.” The teacher quoted Ajahn Chah who said that in everything […]

On September 11, 2021, after meditation we watched a Dharma talk by Roshi Konjin Gaelyn Godwin about Edges and Boundlessness. The talk was originally delivered to the Tallahassee Chan Center […]

On August 14, 2021, after meditation we listened to a talk from Venerable Ajahn Brahm about a talk about Dealing with Sickness. Everyone gets sick at some point in their […]

On July 10, 2021, after meditation we met online for a Teachers’ Corner session on the topic of “Embracing Uncertainty” At Teachers’ Corner last Saturday, we watched excerpts from a […]

On Saturday, June 12, 2021, our Teachers’ Corner was focused on the famous line in the Heart Sutra: “Form is emptiness, emptiness is form…“, with teachings from H.H. The Dalai […]

On May 29, 2021, Chan/Zen teacher, David Listen, joined us to guide meditation and give a Dharma Talk via Zoom. He expounded on the Three Dharma Seals (impermanence, selflessness, nirvana). These describe how things truly are; and when we cannot let go of our desire for permanence or a sense of an independent self, we suffer. He explained how nirvana or “true nature” is not a “thing” we can see or attain, but simply describes our capacity to fully realize the truths of impermanence and selflessness, thereby unleashing our full potential for compassion and wisdom.

On Saturday, May 8, 2021, the topic for Teachers’ Corner was “Wise Livelihood.” After meditation, we listened to a dharma talk by the teacher Andrea Fella about “Wise Livelihood“ (often […]

On Saturday April 10, 2021, the topic for Teachers’ Corner was “Grief.” For seated meditation, we started with a 10-minute guided meditation on “Encountering Grief” by Roshi Joan Halifax followed […]

On March 13, 2021, after meditation we met online for a Teachers’ Corner session about “Forgiveness.” At Teachers’ Corner last Saturday, we listened to excerpts from Ven. Pannavati Bhikkhuni’s talk […]

On February 13, 2021, after meditation we learned more about “zazen”, or Zen meditation, through a text called the “Fukan Zazengi“, or the “Universally Recommended Instructions for Zazen” in English. […]

On January 9, 2021, after meditation we met online for a Teachers’ Corner session on the topic of “How to Prioritize?” At Teachers’ Corner last Saturday, we listened to a […]

On December 12, 2020, after meditation we heard a dharma talk about the concept of vow, which figures prominently in Mahayana Buddhism. At Teachers’ Corner last Saturday, we heard a […]

On November 14, 2020, after meditation, we discussed one of the fundamental causes of our suffering — Attachment / Clinging / Grasping, and how to work with it in our […]

On October 10, 2020, after meditation, we shared several teachers’ responses on the issue of Teacher Misconduct in student abuse. We hope their advice will guide us in learning the […]

On September 12, 2020, after meditation we learned more about Right Speech (Samma vaca), one of the elements of the Buddha’s Eightfold Noble Path, through a closer examination of one […]

On August 8, 2020, after meditation, we learned about a core Buddhism teaching about human suffering — the Second Arrow. At Teachers’ Corner last Saturday, we read the sutta (Samyutta […]

On July 11, 2020, after meditation, we learned about what “Being Present” means for practitioners of the Buddhadharma. At Teachers’ Corner last Saturday, we listened to a recent Dharma talk […]

On June 13, 2020, after meditation, we learned from two different teachers on the topic of Transforming Suffering. At Teachers’ Corner last Saturday, we listened to two Dharma talks, one […]

On May 9, 2020, after meditation, we learned from two teachers about the feeling of Guilt and the Buddhist perspective on how to deal with it. At Teachers’ Corner last […]

On Apr. 11th, 2020 was our “Teachers’ Corner” week, and we took this opportunity to share a recent Dharma talk given by a Chan teacher Dr. Rebecca Li, in response […]

On Mar. 14, 2020 after meditation, we learned from three different teachers about Anger. At Teachers’ Corner last Saturday, we watched two short video teachings and read a short article, […]

On Feb. 08, 2020 after meditation, we heard from two different teachers about Impermanence. During our “Teachers’ Corner” session, we read a couple pages from Thích Nhất Hạnh’s book and […]

On Jan. 11, 2020 after meditation, we learned about the importance and the challenges of Listening from Dharma teachers Ajahn Brahm and Toni Packer. During our “Teachers’ Corner” session, we […]

Last Saturday, on Nov. 2, 2019, Stephen generously shared his research on a well-known Buddhist concept: Interdependence. He led us through an inspiring discussion session after meditation. Following is the […]

Last Saturday, on Oct 12, 2019, we studied the tenth of The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Jñāna (Knowledge). To learn more about the very last Paramita, we shared […]

Last Saturday, on Oct 05, 2019, we studied the ninth of The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Bala (Spiritual Power / Strength). We first read an excerpts from the […]

Last Saturday, on Sept. 14, 2019, we studied the eighth of The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Praṇidhāna (Vow / Aspiration). After a brief intro. on the vows of […]

Last Saturday, on September 7, 2019, we studied the seventh of The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Upāya (Skillful Means / Expedient Means). We first defined Upāya. Then we […]

Last Saturday, on August 10, 2019, we dived deeper into our study for The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Prajñā (Wisdom / Insight). We first read a few excerpts […]

Last Saturday, on August 3, 2019, we studied The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Prajñā (Wisdom / Insight). Following meditation, we started Dharma learning session with a quick overview […]

Last Saturday, on July 13, 2019, we studied The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Dhyāna (Meditative Absorption / Stability of the Mind). Following meditation, we started Dharma learning session […]

Last Saturday, on July 6, 2019, we continued our study in The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Vīrya (Energy / Enthusiasm). Following meditation, we first shared observations from last month’s […]

Last Saturday, on June 08, 2019, we studied the fourth of The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Vīrya (Energy / Diligence / Effort / Exertion). We started our Dharma […]

Last Saturday, on June 1, 2019, we returned to the third of The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Kshanti (Patience / Forbearance). Following the wonderful talk on Patience by […]

On May 11, 2019, we welcomed our very first guest teacher, Rev. Eishin Nancy Easton! Rev. Easton joined us in group meditation and gave a Dharma talk on the third of The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Kshanti / Kṣānti (Patience).
Rev. Easton came early and practiced moving and sitting meditation with us. Afterward, she gave a wonderful Dharma talk on “The Patience Paramita”. She then led us into a dynamic group discussion to explore the practice of Patience in daily life and answered many of our questions on the topic.

Last Saturday, on May 4, 2019, we studied the second of The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Śīla (Ethics/Morality). We first read the article “The Buddhist Precepts” to get […]

Last Saturday, on April 13, 2019, we continued our study in the first of The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Dāna (Generosity). We read the article “Joyful Receiving” and […]

Last Saturday, on April 6, 2019, we began learning more about the first of The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Dāna (Generosity). We briefly discussed the “Three Kinds of Gifts” […]

Last Saturday, on March 9, 2019, we continued our introduction to The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism with a focus on the question “What is Bodhisattva?”. We explored the meaning of […]

Last Saturday, on March 2, 2019, we kicked off our 2019 Dharma Learning topic — The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism. We shared a print out of Barbara O’Brien’s article: […]

On Aug 9th, we listened to a recorded talk by Ajahn Amaro. In this Dharma talk, the teacher explains how true non-attachment — letting go of self-centered striving and craving, can free us to engage with our lives, our practice, and the world with greater clarity, compassion, and wisdom.

On June 14th, we listened to a recorded talk by Ven. Thubten Chodron. In this Dharma talk, the Venerable examines the Buddhist understanding of consciousness, focusing on the distinction between conceptual and non-conceptual consciousness and how these different ways of knowing shape our experience of reality.

Last Sunday we listened to a talk by Dharma teacher, Joseph Goldstein on the cultivation of Metta (Loving-Kindness). He explains that Metta is a simple, unconditional wish for happiness and well-being for all, supported by qualities of straightforwardness, gentleness, and humility, which foster openness, kindness, and the readiness to learn. By focusing on the good in ourselves and others, we can generate feelings of gratitude and forgiveness, further enriching our practice.

In her talk, entitled “Living with the Fundamental Truth of Impermanence,” Chozen Roshi emphasizes that impermanence is a fundamental feature of the world. Instead of rejecting the experiences of impermanence, we must instead accept them. This doesn’t mean that we become cold and uncaring – it’s okay to grieve our losses. But we must also let the grief be impermanent, and learn to rest in awareness and just be present. This moment right now is true, and it is enough.

On June 8th, 2025, after meditation, we listened to a Dharma talk by the Venerable Ajahn Sādaro, teaches that the path to true humility is through working on our conceit, and the root of conceit is “I am”, the holding onto a self. Recognizing that all things are brought about by causes and conditions and are changeable will help us to be more flexible in our views.

On May 11, 2025, after meditation, we watched a Dharma talk recording by Rev. angel Kyodo williams, about our practice of “Transforming the Mind,” and the lesson of the Lojong slogan “Don’t Expect Applause.” She reminds us that transformation isn’t about acquiring something new, but clearing what obscures our natural alignment. In Japanese, “mind” includes the body. To train the mind is to train how we live, feel, and relate—without expecting applause, and without bypassing suffering. It’s an invitation to meet life directly, as it is.

On March 30, 2025, Ven. Thubten Lamsel joined us via Zoom to lead meditation and offer a Dharma talk on the topic of bodhicitta—the wish to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. She spoke on how this motivation, without the attachment to “self,” lies at the heart of the Buddhist path, and how it can guide our actions, speech, and thoughts throughout daily life. Drawing on examples from monastic training and simple practices like mindful eating, she shared how even ordinary activities become powerful causes for awakening when rooted in compassion. The talk emphasized bodhicitta as both the source and expression of our deepest wisdom and connection to others.

On February 9th, 2025, after meditation, we listened to a Dharma talk by Ven. Ajahn Kalyano, explaining what a peaceful mind is, and how to cultivate it using mindfulness practice that focus on the recollection of impermanence.

On January 12, 2025, after meditation, we listened to a Dharma talk recording by Insight Meditation teacher, Jack Kornfield, where he delves into the second aspect of the Noble Eightfold Path: “Right Attitude, Wise Aspiration, Mindful Thought.”

On October 13, 2024, after meditation, we listened to excerpts of a recorded Dharma talk by teacher Fred Eppsteiner, on “The Three Fierce Mantras” — three simple yet profound and powerful sentences of teachings by 12th Century Tibetan Buddhist ascetic, Tsangpa Gyare, that can cut through our anxiety, and confusion in life

On Sunday, September 8, 2024, after meditation we listened to three different short talks about Right View. Right View is one of the practices of the Noble Eightfold Path, which […]

On Sunday, August 11, 2024, after meditation, we watched four video clips from interviews of Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo on the topic of our “Buddha Nature” and how practice can help […]

On Sunday, March 10, 2024, after meditation, we watched a talk “The Four Noble Truths in Context“ from Ṭhānissaro Bhikkhu. In this talk, aimed at practitioners who have previously encountered […]

On Sunday, February 11, 2024, after meditation we listened to a talk on “The Five Remembrances“ by meditation teacher, Devin Berry. Inspired by recent health concerns and the loss of […]

On Sunday, December 10, 2023, after meditation we listened to a talk from Dōju Layton about Buddhism and War, and the practice of non-violence. Dōju was moved to give this […]

On Sunday, October 8, 2023, after meditation, we listened to a Dharma talk from Tan Ajahn Kalyano titled “Upekkhā (equanimity)“. This talk discusses equanimity, the fourth of the four brahmavihārā […]

On August 13, 2023, after meditation, we shared a talk by Dharma teacher Fred Eppsteiner, on the teaching of Yogācāra, titled “Yogācāra: A Concise Instruction for Practitioners.” Yogācāra, often referred […]

On July 9, 2023, after meditation, we met online for a Teachers’ Corner session about “The Practice of Six Transcendence.” We listened to a collection of excerpts from a Dharma […]

On Sunday, March 12th, 2023, after meditation we watched a Dharma talk from Jack Kornfield entitled “The Most Basic Truths: Gateways to Freedom“. In this talk, Mr. Kornfield discusses a […]

On March 13, 2022, after meditation, we honored Women History Month by sharing a talk from Ven. Tathālokā on the topic of “The Role of Bhikkhunis.” After meditation, we briefly shared the […]

On February 13, 2022, after meditation, we met online for a Teachers’ Corner session to learn from the recently departed Zen Master Thich Nhất Hạnh about the practice of “Mindfulness”. […]

On January 9, 2022, after meditation, we studied the topic of “The Four Great Vows.” Before watching the Dharma Talk by Zen Master Bon Soeng on The Four Great Vows, […]

On November 13, 2021, after meditation we listened to a talk from the Venerable Bhikku Bodhi about a piece of the Buddha’s advice for our speech. In particular, the Buddha […]

On Saturday, June 12, 2021, our Teachers’ Corner was focused on the famous line in the Heart Sutra: “Form is emptiness, emptiness is form…“, with teachings from H.H. The Dalai […]

On May 29, 2021, Chan/Zen teacher, David Listen, joined us to guide meditation and give a Dharma Talk via Zoom. He expounded on the Three Dharma Seals (impermanence, selflessness, nirvana). These describe how things truly are; and when we cannot let go of our desire for permanence or a sense of an independent self, we suffer. He explained how nirvana or “true nature” is not a “thing” we can see or attain, but simply describes our capacity to fully realize the truths of impermanence and selflessness, thereby unleashing our full potential for compassion and wisdom.

On Saturday, May 8, 2021, the topic for Teachers’ Corner was “Wise Livelihood.” After meditation, we listened to a dharma talk by the teacher Andrea Fella about “Wise Livelihood“ (often […]

On February 13, 2021, after meditation we learned more about “zazen”, or Zen meditation, through a text called the “Fukan Zazengi“, or the “Universally Recommended Instructions for Zazen” in English. […]

On September 12, 2020, after meditation we learned more about Right Speech (Samma vaca), one of the elements of the Buddha’s Eightfold Noble Path, through a closer examination of one […]

On Feb. 08, 2020 after meditation, we heard from two different teachers about Impermanence. During our “Teachers’ Corner” session, we read a couple pages from Thích Nhất Hạnh’s book and […]

Last Saturday, on Nov. 2, 2019, Stephen generously shared his research on a well-known Buddhist concept: Interdependence. He led us through an inspiring discussion session after meditation. Following is the […]

Last Saturday, on Oct 12, 2019, we studied the tenth of The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Jñāna (Knowledge). To learn more about the very last Paramita, we shared […]

Last Saturday, on Oct 05, 2019, we studied the ninth of The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Bala (Spiritual Power / Strength). We first read an excerpts from the […]

Last Saturday, on Sept. 14, 2019, we studied the eighth of The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Praṇidhāna (Vow / Aspiration). After a brief intro. on the vows of […]

Last Saturday, on September 7, 2019, we studied the seventh of The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Upāya (Skillful Means / Expedient Means). We first defined Upāya. Then we […]

Last Saturday, on August 10, 2019, we dived deeper into our study for The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Prajñā (Wisdom / Insight). We first read a few excerpts […]

Last Saturday, on August 3, 2019, we studied The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Prajñā (Wisdom / Insight). Following meditation, we started Dharma learning session with a quick overview […]

Last Saturday, on July 13, 2019, we studied The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Dhyāna (Meditative Absorption / Stability of the Mind). Following meditation, we started Dharma learning session […]

Last Saturday, on July 6, 2019, we continued our study in The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Vīrya (Energy / Enthusiasm). Following meditation, we first shared observations from last month’s […]

Last Saturday, on June 08, 2019, we studied the fourth of The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Vīrya (Energy / Diligence / Effort / Exertion). We started our Dharma […]

Last Saturday, on June 1, 2019, we returned to the third of The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Kshanti (Patience / Forbearance). Following the wonderful talk on Patience by […]

On May 11, 2019, we welcomed our very first guest teacher, Rev. Eishin Nancy Easton! Rev. Easton joined us in group meditation and gave a Dharma talk on the third of The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Kshanti / Kṣānti (Patience).
Rev. Easton came early and practiced moving and sitting meditation with us. Afterward, she gave a wonderful Dharma talk on “The Patience Paramita”. She then led us into a dynamic group discussion to explore the practice of Patience in daily life and answered many of our questions on the topic.

Last Saturday, on May 4, 2019, we studied the second of The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Śīla (Ethics/Morality). We first read the article “The Buddhist Precepts” to get […]

Last Saturday, on April 13, 2019, we continued our study in the first of The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Dāna (Generosity). We read the article “Joyful Receiving” and […]

Last Saturday, on April 6, 2019, we began learning more about the first of The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism — Dāna (Generosity). We briefly discussed the “Three Kinds of Gifts” […]

Last Saturday, on March 9, 2019, we continued our introduction to The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism with a focus on the question “What is Bodhisattva?”. We explored the meaning of […]

Last Saturday, on March 2, 2019, we kicked off our 2019 Dharma Learning topic — The Ten Paramitas of Mahayana Buddhism. We shared a print out of Barbara O’Brien’s article: […]

On Sept 13th, we listened to an episode from The Zen Studies Podcast by Rev. Domyo Burk, in which she invites us to take a compassionate look at one of the most familiar challenges in meditation: the wandering mind. Rather than seeing a busy mind as a problem to overcome, she encourages us to examine our understanding of a “quiet mind.”

On Aug 9th, we listened to a recorded talk by Ajahn Amaro. In this Dharma talk, the teacher explains how true non-attachment — letting go of self-centered striving and craving, can free us to engage with our lives, our practice, and the world with greater clarity, compassion, and wisdom.

On June 14th, we listened to a recorded talk by Ven. Thubten Chodron. In this Dharma talk, the Venerable examines the Buddhist understanding of consciousness, focusing on the distinction between conceptual and non-conceptual consciousness and how these different ways of knowing shape our experience of reality.

On Mother’s Day, May 10, 2026, we listened to a podcast conversation with Sylvia Boorstein, a mother and a Dharma teacher. She discussed the importance of teaching by example, learning how one’s own mind works, recognizing the fear masked by anger, and the lesson we should learn from the GPS software.

Last Sunday we listened to a talk by Dharma teacher, Joseph Goldstein on the cultivation of Metta (Loving-Kindness). He explains that Metta is a simple, unconditional wish for happiness and well-being for all, supported by qualities of straightforwardness, gentleness, and humility, which foster openness, kindness, and the readiness to learn. By focusing on the good in ourselves and others, we can generate feelings of gratitude and forgiveness, further enriching our practice.

In her talk, entitled “Living with the Fundamental Truth of Impermanence,” Chozen Roshi emphasizes that impermanence is a fundamental feature of the world. Instead of rejecting the experiences of impermanence, we must instead accept them. This doesn’t mean that we become cold and uncaring – it’s okay to grieve our losses. But we must also let the grief be impermanent, and learn to rest in awareness and just be present. This moment right now is true, and it is enough.

On Sunday, November 9, 2025, we shared an interview with meditation teacher Tara Brach, titled “Waking Up from the Trance of Unworthiness,” in which she explores the roots of shame, the path of radical self-acceptance, and how awakening from the cycle of self-judgment reveals the freedom of no-self.

On October 12, 2025, after meditation, we honored the recently departed teacher Dr. Larry Ward (1948-2025), and shared one of his last Dharma talk on “Civic Dharma,” offering guidance on how to live the principles of Dharma in our public lives; how we might reimagine our personal and collective responsibilities as citizens through the lens of spiritual practice.

Last Sunday we watched a talk by Dharma teacher, Guo Gu, on “Principles on Managing Stress.” He distinguished between the medical view of stress and the
Buddhist concept of vexations—emotional afflictions rooted in attachment and self-centeredness. He emphasized that stress arises from within, shaped by our perceptions and habitual patterns, and introduced four toolkits to manage stress.

On Aug. 10th, we listened to a Dharma talk from the Venerable Ayyā Somā, teaches us that sickness and the pain that goes with it is inevitable, but suffering is not. Practice is always available to us, even while we are ill. Instead of concentration, observe the body and mind, and see impermanence. It’s always the right time to practice, whether you are sick or healthy.

On July 13, 2025, after meditation, we watched an interview with Brother Phap Luu of Plum Village on the practice of Mindful Eating, titled “Rewire Your Relationship to Food.” The teacher shares how the practice of mindful eating helps us reconnect with the deeper nature of what we consume, and can radically transform our relationships with food, the body, the community, other beings, and the planet.

On June 8th, 2025, after meditation, we listened to a Dharma talk by the Venerable Ajahn Sādaro, teaches that the path to true humility is through working on our conceit, and the root of conceit is “I am”, the holding onto a self. Recognizing that all things are brought about by causes and conditions and are changeable will help us to be more flexible in our views.

On May 11, 2025, after meditation, we watched a Dharma talk recording by Rev. angel Kyodo williams, about our practice of “Transforming the Mind,” and the lesson of the Lojong slogan “Don’t Expect Applause.” She reminds us that transformation isn’t about acquiring something new, but clearing what obscures our natural alignment. In Japanese, “mind” includes the body. To train the mind is to train how we live, feel, and relate—without expecting applause, and without bypassing suffering. It’s an invitation to meet life directly, as it is.

On April 13, 2025, after meditation, we watched a Dharma talk recording by Sensei Wendy Dainin Lau of the Upaya Zen Center, titled: “Spin Cycle for the Logical Mind.” She described how the Diamond Sutra uses an antilogic approach to expound on the concept of emptiness, helping us break apart our attachment to self, human identity, sentient beings, and lifespan. She shares how even our most noble intentions can become near enemies when they contain notions of separate selves and the importance of grounding our practice in daily life.

On March 30, 2025, Ven. Thubten Lamsel joined us via Zoom to lead meditation and offer a Dharma talk on the topic of bodhicitta—the wish to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. She spoke on how this motivation, without the attachment to “self,” lies at the heart of the Buddhist path, and how it can guide our actions, speech, and thoughts throughout daily life. Drawing on examples from monastic training and simple practices like mindful eating, she shared how even ordinary activities become powerful causes for awakening when rooted in compassion. The talk emphasized bodhicitta as both the source and expression of our deepest wisdom and connection to others.

On March 9, 2025, after meditation, we shared a recorded Dharma Talk by Dr. Larry Ward, on “Cultivating Mindful Consumption of the Media,” offering guidance on “Living in the World with Your Heart Undisturbed.” Dr. Ward explores how we can engage with the world and the media without losing our inner peace and deeper purpose.

On January 12, 2025, after meditation, we listened to a Dharma talk recording by Insight Meditation teacher, Jack Kornfield, where he delves into the second aspect of the Noble Eightfold Path: “Right Attitude, Wise Aspiration, Mindful Thought.”

On November 10, 2024, we listened to excerpts of a recorded Dharma talk by Roshi Joan Halifax, on cultivating wise hope with “Imagination and the Bodhisattva Attitude.” Drawing from personal reflections and Buddhist teachings, Halifax invites us to embrace a hopeful yet grounded perspective that empowers us to act in the face of adversity

On October 13, 2024, after meditation, we listened to excerpts of a recorded Dharma talk by teacher Fred Eppsteiner, on “The Three Fierce Mantras” — three simple yet profound and powerful sentences of teachings by 12th Century Tibetan Buddhist ascetic, Tsangpa Gyare, that can cut through our anxiety, and confusion in life

On Sunday, June 9, 2024, after meditation, we listened to the Dharma talk “Practicing Restraint to Make Room for the World“ from Myoshin Kate McCandless about the word “tzimtzum”. The […]

On Sunday, May 12, 2024, after meditation we listened to a Dharma talk titled “Healing Blocks of Suffering in the Individual and Collective Consciousness“ by meditation teacher, Kaira Jewel Lingo. […]

On Sunday, April 14, 2024, after meditation, we listened to a Dharma talk by Ven. Ajahn Brahm on the topic of “Am I Good Enough?“ Often, no matter how much […]

On Sunday, February 11, 2024, after meditation we listened to a talk on “The Five Remembrances“ by meditation teacher, Devin Berry. Inspired by recent health concerns and the loss of […]

On Sunday, January 14, 2024, after meditation we listened to a talk on “Real Happiness at Work“ by meditation teacher and author, Sharon Salzberg. Salzberg defines “real happiness” as an […]

On Sunday, November 11, 2023, after meditation, we listened to segments of a public Dharma talk from Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche titled “Meditation and Going Beyond Mindfulness – A Secular Perspective“. […]

On Sunday, September 10th, 2023, after meditation we shared a talk by meditation teacher, Tara Brach, where she explored the topic of “Awakening through Difficult Emotions: The Poison is the […]

On Sunday, June 11, 2023, after meditation we listened to a Dharma talk from Rev. Hōgetsu Laurie Belzer entitled “Equanimity in our Whirling World“. In this talk, Hōgetsu introduces the […]

On Sunday, May 14th, 2023, after meditation we watched excerpts from a Talk by Chan teacher, Dr. Rebecca Li, about cultivating compassion and loving-kindness for ourselves. The teacher mentioned that […]

On Sunday, January 8, 2023, after meditation we listened to a Dharma talk podcast by Vipassana teacher, Jack Kornfield, on “Seeing Anew.” Starting by quoting Shunryū Suziki Roshi: “the goal […]

On Sunday, December 11, 2022, after meditation we watched a Dharma talk from Bhante Sujatha entitled “A Buddhist Approach to Handling Difficult Thoughts and Emotions.” In his talk, Bhante Sujatha […]

On October 9th, 2022, after meditation, we watched a Dharma lecture by Ajahn Brahm titled: “Facing Difficult Situations in Life.” Ajahn Brahm taught that when we face crises and other […]

On Sunday, September 11, 2022, after meditation we listened to a Dharma talk from Issan Koyama offering insights into two kōans, the Wild Fox kōan and Rinzai’s Blind Ass. In […]

On August 14, 2022, after meditation, we learned from Dharma teacher Pema Chödrön about the concept of “shenpa”, how it related to our suffering, our feeling of being “stuck”, and […]

On June 12, 2022, after meditation we listened to a Dharma talk – “Zazen is Not About Progress” – from Shōhaku Okumura about the difference between a goal and a […]

On April 10, 2022, after meditation, we shared a talk on the Tibetan Lojong teaching of: “Turning Adversity Into the Path of Awakening” by Fred Eppsteiner. In his talk, Fred also […]

On December 11, 2021, after meditation, we listened to excerpts from Dr. Larry Ward’s talk titled “Unshakable Deliverance of the Mind”, on how to practice with the Five Hindrances. Dr. Ward explained that the goal of our practice is to achieve “a mind that is unshakable” and a mind that is “delivered… from itself.” To achieve unshakable deliverance, we must develop an awareness of our mind, and the power to reshape it toward compassion and kindness, and this process calls for us to practice with the Five Hindrances.

On August 14, 2021, after meditation we listened to a talk from Venerable Ajahn Brahm about a talk about Dealing with Sickness. Everyone gets sick at some point in their […]

On July 10, 2021, after meditation we met online for a Teachers’ Corner session on the topic of “Embracing Uncertainty” At Teachers’ Corner last Saturday, we watched excerpts from a […]

On Saturday April 10, 2021, the topic for Teachers’ Corner was “Grief.” For seated meditation, we started with a 10-minute guided meditation on “Encountering Grief” by Roshi Joan Halifax followed […]

On March 13, 2021, after meditation we met online for a Teachers’ Corner session about “Forgiveness.” At Teachers’ Corner last Saturday, we listened to excerpts from Ven. Pannavati Bhikkhuni’s talk […]

On January 9, 2021, after meditation we met online for a Teachers’ Corner session on the topic of “How to Prioritize?” At Teachers’ Corner last Saturday, we listened to a […]

On December 12, 2020, after meditation we heard a dharma talk about the concept of vow, which figures prominently in Mahayana Buddhism. At Teachers’ Corner last Saturday, we heard a […]

On October 10, 2020, after meditation, we shared several teachers’ responses on the issue of Teacher Misconduct in student abuse. We hope their advice will guide us in learning the […]

On August 8, 2020, after meditation, we learned about a core Buddhism teaching about human suffering — the Second Arrow. At Teachers’ Corner last Saturday, we read the sutta (Samyutta […]

On July 11, 2020, after meditation, we learned about what “Being Present” means for practitioners of the Buddhadharma. At Teachers’ Corner last Saturday, we listened to a recent Dharma talk […]

On May 9, 2020, after meditation, we learned from two teachers about the feeling of Guilt and the Buddhist perspective on how to deal with it. At Teachers’ Corner last […]

On Apr. 11th, 2020 was our “Teachers’ Corner” week, and we took this opportunity to share a recent Dharma talk given by a Chan teacher Dr. Rebecca Li, in response […]

On Mar. 14, 2020 after meditation, we learned from three different teachers about Anger. At Teachers’ Corner last Saturday, we watched two short video teachings and read a short article, […]

On Sept 13th, we listened to an episode from The Zen Studies Podcast by Rev. Domyo Burk, in which she invites us to take a compassionate look at one of the most familiar challenges in meditation: the wandering mind. Rather than seeing a busy mind as a problem to overcome, she encourages us to examine our understanding of a “quiet mind.”

“Zazen is not meditation”, the Rev. Fujita proclaims, distinguishing zazen, in which one should sit without effort and without a goal, from “meditation” which is characterized by exerting purposeful effort in pursuit of a goal. The Reverend walked us through ways of thinking about posture, breath, and mental attitude to help us have a new perspective on zazen.

On July 13, 2025, after meditation, we watched an interview with Brother Phap Luu of Plum Village on the practice of Mindful Eating, titled “Rewire Your Relationship to Food.” The teacher shares how the practice of mindful eating helps us reconnect with the deeper nature of what we consume, and can radically transform our relationships with food, the body, the community, other beings, and the planet.

On March 30, 2025, Ven. Thubten Lamsel joined us via Zoom to lead meditation and offer a Dharma talk on the topic of bodhicitta—the wish to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. She spoke on how this motivation, without the attachment to “self,” lies at the heart of the Buddhist path, and how it can guide our actions, speech, and thoughts throughout daily life. Drawing on examples from monastic training and simple practices like mindful eating, she shared how even ordinary activities become powerful causes for awakening when rooted in compassion. The talk emphasized bodhicitta as both the source and expression of our deepest wisdom and connection to others.

On February 9th, 2025, after meditation, we listened to a Dharma talk by Ven. Ajahn Kalyano, explaining what a peaceful mind is, and how to cultivate it using mindfulness practice that focus on the recollection of impermanence.

On Sunday, July 14, 2024, after meditation, we listened to three short Dharma talks given by Guo Gu (Dr. Jimmy Yu) — a teacher in the Chinese Chan Buddhism lineage […]

On Sunday, June 9, 2024, after meditation, we listened to the Dharma talk “Practicing Restraint to Make Room for the World“ from Myoshin Kate McCandless about the word “tzimtzum”. The […]

On Sunday, November 11, 2023, after meditation, we listened to segments of a public Dharma talk from Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche titled “Meditation and Going Beyond Mindfulness – A Secular Perspective“. […]

On Sunday, September 10th, 2023, after meditation we shared a talk by meditation teacher, Tara Brach, where she explored the topic of “Awakening through Difficult Emotions: The Poison is the […]

On July 9, 2023, after meditation, we met online for a Teachers’ Corner session about “The Practice of Six Transcendence.” We listened to a collection of excerpts from a Dharma […]

On Sunday, February 12, 2023, after meditation, we listened to a Dharma talk by Soto Zen teacher, Zenju Earthlyn Manuel, on “Boundlessness.” Zenju first clarified that boundlessness could not be […]

On Sunday, November 13, 2022, after meditation, we listened to the talk “Gratitude as a Dharma Gate“ by Dharma teacher Domyo Burk. In her talk, Domyo explained how gratitude could […]

On July 10, 2022, after meditation, the group watched three short Dharma teachings by Her Eminence Mindrolling Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche, all of which were given in response to practitioners’ questions, […]

On May 8, 2022, after meditation, we shared a collection of short talks by Chozen Bays Roshi with practical advice on the most basic practice how-tos: “From Sitting Postures to […]

On October 9, 2021, after meditation we watched a Dharma talk by Ayya Santussika titled: “Giving It All You’ve Got.” The teacher quoted Ajahn Chah who said that in everything […]

On September 11, 2021, after meditation we watched a Dharma talk by Roshi Konjin Gaelyn Godwin about Edges and Boundlessness. The talk was originally delivered to the Tallahassee Chan Center […]

On December 12, 2020, after meditation we heard a dharma talk about the concept of vow, which figures prominently in Mahayana Buddhism. At Teachers’ Corner last Saturday, we heard a […]

On November 14, 2020, after meditation, we discussed one of the fundamental causes of our suffering — Attachment / Clinging / Grasping, and how to work with it in our […]

On June 13, 2020, after meditation, we learned from two different teachers on the topic of Transforming Suffering. At Teachers’ Corner last Saturday, we listened to two Dharma talks, one […]

On Jan. 11, 2020 after meditation, we learned about the importance and the challenges of Listening from Dharma teachers Ajahn Brahm and Toni Packer. During our “Teachers’ Corner” session, we […]