About the Workshop
The Buddha’s teachings invite us to “see life as it is.” In his teaching on the Four Noble Truths, he acknowledges the suffering that arises when we live out of sync with life and he offers a path to living in peace in all circumstances and all conditions. In this workshop we will explore the first element of The Buddha’s Eightfold Path: Samma Ditthi, or “Right View” (as presented in the Buddhist Pali Canon).
During this four session workshop, we will consider the Buddha’s teachings on “right views” (those ways of seeing life that are conducive to liberation and freedom), “wrong views” (those ways of seeing life that lead to bondage and suffering), and the nature of all “views” and how they influence our thinking, speaking, and acting. With an introductory understanding of Ditthi, we will inquire into our own conscious and unconscious views about life and the ways in which they inform our experiences and what we think and say and do.
The purpose of this workshop is to become aware of our fundamental views about life and to free ourselves from all views that limit our full self-expression and block us from the experience of life simply as it is. This workshop is a beginning.
Each Workshop Includes:
optional silent meditation
(7:15 - 7:30 p.m.)opening meditation
exploration of the Buddha’s teachings
spiritual discussion
invitation to home practice
closing meditation
Introduction to The Buddha’s Eightfold Path
These ancient teachings and meditation practices offer us ways to address and heal the root causes of our personal and collective challenges in the 21st century. All four sessions will be devoted to “Right View,” the first element of the eightfold path, which sets the stage for all the rest, touches the whole teaching, and informs a relational way forth to freedom and joy.
Each week we will begin with a silent meditation, followed by a brief talk on the night’s topic, an opportunity to share or ask questions, and we will conclude with a meditation designed to support us in our journey until our next gathering. We encourage participants to attend all four workshops to receive the maximum benefit. Each workshop builds upon the last but even showing up once (or two or three times!) can have a profound effect.
Location, Dates, and Topics for Each Week
March 6 - Session 1: Introduction, overview, and purpose of the workshop. Distinguishing between “life as it is” and “what we say about life.” Cultivating a peaceful attitude.
March 13 - Session 2: The Buddha’s teachings on “Right views,” “Wrong views,” and all “Views.”
March 20 - Session 3: What does this have to do with me? Inquiring into “my views.” Coming into “right relationship” with “my views” and all views.
March 27 - Session 4: Review. Moving forward with understanding and peacefulness.
Each class is on a Friday evening from 7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Those who would like to join us for a 15 minute silent meditation may arrive at 7:15 p.m. and sit in quiet meditation until the beginning of the workshop.
Ruscombe Mansion, Community Hall, 4803 Yellowwood Ave., Baltimore, MD 21209. Our gathering space is on the lower level facing the parking lot.
About the Workshop Leader
Acharya Premadas (Michael Humphrey) has a degree in Asian religion and has been a student of Buddhism, Yoga, Tantra, and Meditation since 1973. He studied in Sri Lanka, India, and Nepal and has been a member of the Awake Yoga Meditation community since 2006.
The spiritual name Premadas, which means servant of supreme love, was given by Swami Shankarananda, the founder of our meditation community. The title, Acharya, was conferred on Michael Humphrey by Swami Shankarananda in 2014. The title is found across traditions (Vedanta, Buddhism, Hinduism) and means teacher.
Registration By Donation
All proceeds go to the Awake Yoga Meditation community. Only a total of 40 seats available. Please click here to RSVP and registration.
Please contact us below with any questions.