Events

Mindfulness--whether in meditation or in daily life--involves awareness, nonjudgment, and acceptance of what is. For most of us, however, judgment of whatever we encounter happens automatically, leading to a lack of compassion for ourselves as well as others. Lama Nancy will talk about unconditional positive regard and how we can cultivate it even if don't necessarily have much experience of it. Learning to accept everybody as they really makes our life much easier while making the world […]

IS EMPTINESS REALLY EMPTY?  Emptiness is one of the most misunderstood concepts in Buddhist philosophy, which is not surprising given that it cannot be fully explained in words and is counterintuitive to our normal perception of everyday reality. As the well-known description in the Heart Sutra–“Form is emptiness and emptiness is form”–suggests, there’s a lot more to understand than, well, “nothing.” By examining the ways in which nothing exists separately, independently, and permanently on its own, we […]

Every Saturday, 10:30-11:30 am, Khenpo Chophel leads us in meditation. Currently we are practicing the 7 stages of sitting meditation under his guidance. Sit on a cushion or in a chair, and stay afterward for tea and informal discussion if you wish, followed by our other Saturday programs at 12 noon. Newcomers are welcome, and no prior experience is required. Free; donation appreciated.

NGONDRO: The 4 Special Foundations, Part I. Khenpo Chophel will begin his teaching on Ngondro with discussion of the 1st Special Foundation, Refuge and Prostrations. Suitable for those who have started Ngondro or plan to do so in the near future. Zoom info: Meeting ID 432 235 3275, passcode Karuna21, Phone: 312 626 6799, passcode 68957239.

Every Saturday, 10:30-11:30 am, Khenpo Chophel leads us in meditation. Currently we are practicing the 9 stages of sitting meditation under his guidance. Sit on a cushion or in a chair, and stay afterward for tea and informal discussion if you wish, followed by our other Saturday programs at 12 noon. Newcomers are welcome, and no prior experience is required. Free; donation appreciated.

NGONDRO: The 4 Special Foundations, Part II. Khenpo Chophel will continue his teaching on Ngondro, completing discussion of Refuge and Prostrations and moving on to the 2nd Special Foundation, the Vajrasattva Purification Practice. Suitable for those who have started Ngondro or plan to do so in the near future. Zoom info: Meeting ID 432 235 3275, passcode Karuna21, Phone: 312 626 6799, passcode 68957239.

No Judgment Zone is a support group with a difference: not a therapy group, a 12-step program, or a religious meeting, it is an opportunity to talk and listen while striving for full acceptance of ourselves and each other. We take turns sharing whatever we wish while helping each other tune into our habitual tendencies to judge--whether with approval or criticism--virtually everything from people's appearance to their innermost thoughts. Our attachment to our own opinions can create […]

Khenpo Chophel's introductory talks, New to Buddhism, are different every month and are geared toward those with little or no exposure to Buddhist philosophy or practice, while those who have been around awhile will likely learn something new. No question is too basic to ask during the discussion period.

NGONDRO: The 4 Special Foundations, Part III. Khenpo Chophel will continue his teaching on Ngondro with discussion of the 2nd Special Foundation, Vajrasattva Purification Practice. Suitable for those who have started Ngondro. Zoom info: Meeting ID 432 235 3275, passcode Karuna21, Phone: 312 626 6799, passcode 68957239.

Every month we assemble for a chanting practice with tsok (feast) offering, such as Guru Rinpoche, Green Tara or Guru Yoga. Texts and instructions are provided. Please bring an offering of vegetarian finger food if you wish.