The Ground of Generosity
by Shastri Matthew Lyon In these writings, I am interested in opening an inquiry about the many facets of generosity. I have found it to be a complex subject offering a wealth of themes to explore. Why does this virtue bring peace and fulfillment? What is the right balance between caring for oneself properly and … Continue
Social Restoration & the Dharma
By Kaitlyn Hatch This past autumn I was given the wonderful opportunity to lead three separate classes exploring the practices of bodhichitta, maitri/metta, and tonglen, and how they relate to the work of social restoration. Called ‘Power, Privilege & Difference’, the format for these classes was experimental, co-developed with my dear friend, John Tsungme Guy, … Continue
Visit the Metta Sutta
by Larry Steele The Metta Sutta, the Buddha’s discourse on loving kindness, is a key teaching in the Pali Canon. It is chanted by Theravadan monks throughout the Asian southeast. During my recent visit to Myanmar, the social-activist monks Ashin Issariya and Ashin Kovida both guided me to the Metta Sutta. So did my instructor … Continue
What is Suffering?
By Larry Steele It is said that the Buddha gave his first teachings at Deer Park, near what is now known as Varanasi, India. There, after years of searching and contemplation, he presented the four noble truths about suffering. This is known as the first turning of the wheel of dharma, the first lesson offered … Continue
What is Your Next Step?
Are you ready for the next step on your meditative path? In September and October, the Shambhala Center offers three different introductory meditation programs: Meditation in Everyday Life, Shambhala Training Level I, and Who Am I? The Basic Goodness of Being Human. Because each of these programs is the first in a series, this is … Continue
What Is A Shastri?
by Shastri Ben Hines When you come to the Seattle Shambhala Center, you soon encounter a term never heard in the West until recently: shastri. It reflects a role and responsibilities conferred by Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche, spiritual leader of Shambhala, on certain senior teachers in many Shambhala communities around the world. Speaking personally, I think of … Continue
The Meditating Practitioner
About two years ago after returning from travels as Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche’s attendant, I hung out my own shingle as a solo attorney with equal parts excitement and trepidation. I decided to take advantage of a service provided through the WA state bar association for starting a law practice. As I was told some of … Continue
