Approaching the Essence of Being

From Lama Sonam:

The Approaching the Essence of Being retreat is designed to help us unlock the wondrous secrets that stir within, the heart of enlightenment.  We will explore, as a Dharma family, the precious instructions given to us by such great luminaries as the late Kalu Rinpoche, Jamgon Kongtrul, Bokar Rinpoche, Khenchen Rinpoche and others. It is rare to find such a supportive and blessed environment as SCOL, and the chance to deepen our practice. As the time continues to fly, not many opportunities like this will be left in this short life of ours.

As Kalu Rinpoche has written:   

In the beginning, it is that which is revealed. In the middle, it is that which is constantly maintained. In the end, it is that itself which is actualized and stabilized as the fruition. When this quintessential profound instruction is revealed, you hold the wish-fulfilling jewel in your hands. 

The essence of our being is a clear knowing and profound open-heartedness, more traditionally referred to as wisdom and compassion. Wisdom and compassion are the two wings of Mahayana dharma, and all of our practices serve to reveal these qualities inherent to our being. As a result of cultivating these practices, one experiences less friction when navigating the world; one experiences greater ease, even in trying times; and one discovers greater interest in and greater capacity for bringing meaningful benefit to others.

In this retreat, Lama Eric and Lama Sonam will guide us through the practices of Sutra Mahamudra where we train in mental stability and insight to approach the nature of mind. We will further explore several aspects of the Mind Training tradition to nurture loving-kindness, compassion, and bodhichitta to allow us to continue opening our hearts and being to the world. Combining both of these approaches, each day will include one session dedicated to the Vajrayana practice of Chenrezi, the essence of the compassion of all the awakened ones.

Lama Sonam and Lama Eric will present these contemplations and meditations in a manner that is suitable to beginning meditators but also deeply meaningful for those more seasoned in practice. If you have not done a retreat before and are interested invigorating your practice, this is a wonderful opportunity.

The days will be full, but there are ample stretch breaks and spacious free time around the meals. Consider joining us on our glorious 240 acres of retreat land (or via the sphere of Zoom), for a spacious exploration of these rich techniques to more intimately connect with the essence of our innermost being.

There are no prerequisites to attend, but you must be able to participate in the entirety of the retreat.

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