May I be a protector to those without protection, a leader for those who journey, and a boat, a bridge, a passage for those desiring the further shore.
— from A Guide to the Bodhisattva’s Way of Life by Shantideva
The Open Heart Circle is an adapted Mahayana practice of sending and taking (tonglen) for all sentient beings who are ill or dying, or who have recently died. It is also a powerful practice that can help us practice touching what is painful in the world (in the news or in our relationships, for example) without being overwhelmed.
This short practice helps us to develop an awareness of impermanence in daily life while awakening our innate loving kindness for ourselves and others. It helps break through the barrier of “me and mine” and reminds us that sickness, death and dying are universal conditions. It offers a vehicle to bring illness and sorrow to the path and to develop compassion for both our own suffering and the suffering of others.
Open Heart Circle practice is offered as part of Sunday Morning Open Meditation. If you would like to participate in the Sukhavati practice for the dead, please bring a photograph of your loved one. Nalanda West will provide candles.
Schedule
10:00 AM Sitting & Walking Meditation
11:00 AM Open Heart Circle
12:00 PM Lunch
Questions
If you have questions about this practice, please contact Nalandabodhi co-director Karen de Luna <karendeluna@nalandabodhi.org>.
Date/Time
Date(s) - Sun., June 2, 2024
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Location Nalandabodhi Seattle @ Nalanda West
