A One Day Meditation retreat
February 21, 9 AM - 5PM
Hybrid format: In-person in Portland and online via Zoom
Hybrid format: In-person in Portland and online via Zoom
The contemplation of death holds an honored spot at the core of the Buddhist teachings. For 2600 years human beings have paused in their headlong rush through life to actually ponder, reflect, meditate on the fact that they and all their loved ones will die. At first glance, this can seem like a morbid undertaking, but it is actually profoundly life enhancing
The mostly unspoken fear of death results in a holding back, a keeping of our heart protected, an unwillingness or inability to be truly vulnerable to one another.
When we say "goodbye, drive carefully," we really mean "goodbye - I'm afraid I'll never see you again." Parents kiss their children before sleep, frightened that one or the other of them will not wake up. We try to surround ourselves with security, but every relationship ends in separation or death. Deep down inside we all know this, but are terrified to realize that we know it. We fill our lives with consolation prizes and trophies. We stay distracted with drugs and alcohol and television and overwork, and we miss the living presence of those around us. We accumulate "stuff" that is fundamentally unsatisfying, then travel around the world taking pictures, hoping that they will allow us to hold onto the experiences.
When we actually speak about, share with others, and deeply meditate upon the truth of death, of ending, there is a natural opening to greater joy, freedom, and creativity. To the degree that we understand and can both feel and perceive our fear of death, we can actually begin to love ourselves, our loved ones and life.
The mostly unspoken fear of death results in a holding back, a keeping of our heart protected, an unwillingness or inability to be truly vulnerable to one another.
When we say "goodbye, drive carefully," we really mean "goodbye - I'm afraid I'll never see you again." Parents kiss their children before sleep, frightened that one or the other of them will not wake up. We try to surround ourselves with security, but every relationship ends in separation or death. Deep down inside we all know this, but are terrified to realize that we know it. We fill our lives with consolation prizes and trophies. We stay distracted with drugs and alcohol and television and overwork, and we miss the living presence of those around us. We accumulate "stuff" that is fundamentally unsatisfying, then travel around the world taking pictures, hoping that they will allow us to hold onto the experiences.
When we actually speak about, share with others, and deeply meditate upon the truth of death, of ending, there is a natural opening to greater joy, freedom, and creativity. To the degree that we understand and can both feel and perceive our fear of death, we can actually begin to love ourselves, our loved ones and life.
The Practice
This retreat offers structured experiences followed by discussion and sharing in small groups. We will be watching selected segments from the remarkable video "Consider the Conversation" and engaging in guided meditations on impermanence and attachment, including contemplations of our most cherished attachments and what it means to live with the reality of loss.
Throughout the day we will alternate between:
Throughout the day we will alternate between:
- Guided meditations on death and impermanence
- Selected segments from "Consider the Conversation"
- Small group sharing and discussion
- Periods of silent reflection
An Important Note About Online Participation
In the past, I have offered this work only in person. Now that this meditation community is so far-flung, I'm trying the experiment of offering it online as well.
If there is any way for you to attend in person, I highly recommend that.
It's quite possible that old or recent grief, or even anticipatory grief for an upcoming loss, will be triggered during this day. Please be sure there is someone with whom you can communicate - whether a friend, family member, therapist, or spiritual companion.
We will break into small groups for sharing throughout the day, but you must take responsibility for your own wellbeing. I encourage you to talk with someone you know and love ahead of time about your intention to do this work - or even invite them to participate with you.
Except for those with whom I am working individually, I am unable to provide support by email or phone outside of the retreat itself.
If there is any way for you to attend in person, I highly recommend that.
It's quite possible that old or recent grief, or even anticipatory grief for an upcoming loss, will be triggered during this day. Please be sure there is someone with whom you can communicate - whether a friend, family member, therapist, or spiritual companion.
We will break into small groups for sharing throughout the day, but you must take responsibility for your own wellbeing. I encourage you to talk with someone you know and love ahead of time about your intention to do this work - or even invite them to participate with you.
Except for those with whom I am working individually, I am unable to provide support by email or phone outside of the retreat itself.
Registration
Suggested Donation: $80
In keeping with ancient Buddhist teachings, no one is turned away for lack of funds. You will find a $0 registration link which will save your place. It will also give directions for contributing what you can .
Location: 7645 SW 84th Ave, Portland OR 97223
Hybrid format - Join us in person in Portland or online via Zoom
REGISTER HERE for ONLINE event
REGISTER HERE for IN-PERSON event
In keeping with ancient Buddhist teachings, no one is turned away for lack of funds. You will find a $0 registration link which will save your place. It will also give directions for contributing what you can .
Location: 7645 SW 84th Ave, Portland OR 97223
Hybrid format - Join us in person in Portland or online via Zoom
REGISTER HERE for ONLINE event
REGISTER HERE for IN-PERSON event
Questions? Contact Robert at [email protected]