Within the dharma, wisdom and compassion are sometimes spoken of as the two wings of a bird—we need both of them to fly. We can nurture these qualities in how we engage our life as a field of practice. For the most part, the barriers we encounter and the sources of our suffering are created by our misunderstanding of the nature of things. As we begin to develop some insight into the nature of mind, our experience of our life begins to shift. This is what all of Zen practice is pointing towards.

During the morning, we will focus on zazen, looking at developing concentration, working with thoughts and emotions, and what it means to cultivate compassion as part of a meditative practice. In the afternoon, our focus will shift to how we can develop our practice off of the cushion. What does concentration look like in the midst of full-on activity? How can awareness transform our experience of difficult feelings on the spot? How does softening and opening to our own experience nurture our compassionate heart? 

This weekend retreat is meant to be a follow up to our popular Introduction to Zen Training Weekend. For those interested in doing sesshin, it will also provide an opportunity to experience more extended periods of silence and zazen within the midst of the Three Treasures: the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha, as well as an opportunity for face-to-face teaching

As with all in-person retreats at the Monastery, participants are required to follow the current protocol for keeping everyone safe. Please review the current protocol requirements before registering, and if you have further questions, please contact the registrar.

Financial concerns should not prevent you from attending a program at the Monastery. If you can’t afford the program fee, you can see these options.