What Does it Mean to Be a Buddhist?
An Explanation of the Buddhist Way of Life
A day course suitable for beginners

Date: Sunday, May 4, 2008 Time: 11:00am - 3:00pm; see schedule below Cost: $25 or $20 students/seniors; $15 half-day course Please register in advance.

Location: Rameshori Buddhist Center (130 Allen Road) Teacher: Gen Kelsang Mondrub

At the moment our mind is like a balloon in the wind, tossed in whatever direction our mood takes us, creating many problems for ourselves and others. A person who understands this knows that until they achieve a stable peace for themselves, they need to rely upon those who already have this peace for protection. In Buddhism, this reliance is referred to as seeking refuge in the Three Jewels of Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha.

We can begin to understand the Buddhist way of life by understanding this concept of Buddhist refuge. When we come to understand the nature and function of the Buddha Jewel, we will find it easy to understand the importance of gaining the internal Jewel of the Dharma taught by Buddha. Integrating Dharma into our daily lives, it will become easier and easier for us to live with spiritual peace and confidence, while at the same time transforming every circumstance of daily life into our spiritual path. And when we have transformed our hearts using the nectar of Dharma, we will be well on our way to becoming a Sangha Jewel ourselves - a much-needed example in our world of a person who embodies wisdom, compassion, and inner peace.

* This day course is an excellent preparation for those who plan to attend the Refuge Vow Ceremony in June, and/or the Buddha Shakyamuni Empowerment (also in June). Information about these two June events will be available soon.

Schedule

11:00 - 1:00pm: Brief Meditation and Teaching
1:00 - 2:00pm: Brunch at the World Peace Café (cost not included in day course; 10% discount offered)
2:00 - 3:00pm: Integrating Meditation and Practice for Daily Life