Flowering Lotus Meditation

Today, we’ll explore the concept of Dharma—its meaning, its role in Buddhism, and how it connects to wise action in our daily lives. Let’s start by defining Dharma in a straightforward way.In Buddhism, Dharma (or Dhamma in Pali) has several interconnected meanings:​The Teachings of the Buddha◦Dharma represents the guidance and wisdom shared by the Buddha. This includes key teachings like the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.◦It’s not just the words of the Buddha—it’s the path of practice and the realization of enlightenment.​The Nature of Reality◦Dharma also refers to the true nature of things, including the natural laws of the universe.◦For example, we often hear, "All dharmas are without self-essence," which highlights the impermanence and interconnectedness of all phenomena.​A Universal Truth◦Dharma is universal, applicable to everyone, regardless of their circumstances. It’s a path we follow to live in harmony with the way things truly are.In essence, Dharma is both the path and the goal—a guide for reducing suffering and achieving liberation.How Do We Practice Dharma Today?Here are some common ways people engage with Dharma in their daily lives:MeditationPracticing meditation helps us calm our minds and see reality more clearly.Ethical ConductLiving by principles such as right speech, right action, and right livelihood fosters a harmonious life.Study of TextsReading and reflecting on Buddhist teachings deepens our understanding.Community PracticesChanting, Dharma talks, and retreats provide support and encouragement on the path.Phillip Moffitt writes in Dancing with Life:"Wise action is any action that liberates the mind, moves you toward freedom from suffering, and supports a feeling of well-being that is independent of external conditions."Stephen Batchelor, author of Buddhism Without Beliefs, explains, "Dharma practice requires the courage to confront what it means to be human.”David Chernikoff, Life Part Two“The Dharma in Six Words” Pay AttentionDon’t ClingBe Kind Visit our website to join us live every Sunday at 6 pm CST on Zoom for Meditation, a Talk & Group Discussionhttps://www.floweringlotusmeditation.org

Beth and David discuss David's upcoming in-person retreat with Flowering Lotus on the topics of grief, joy, and awakening. David explains the retreat theme, saying spiritual awakening involves embracing life's 10,000 joys and sorrows with wisdom and compassion. The retreat aims to deepen practice and reflection on skillfully relating to these experiences. David details how experiencing loss from a young age and working in hospice care led him to meditation. In his 20s, he was inspired by teachers working with the dying and converted from hedonism to Buddhism after borrowing a meditation book on his 21st birthday. David outlines Buddhism's teachings on different types of happiness, suffering, and their causes. He explains how wisdom and compassion aid embracing both the bright and dark parts of reality, seeing them clearly as impermanent and without self. Join us with David in Bay St. Louis for his weekend retreat: Learn More Here

Talking with Rev. Christie Bates about her upcoming dharma talk on February 11th online with Flowering Lotus Meditation. We will begin a series of exploring the 10 parami. The concept of Adhiṭṭhāna and its significance in bringing resolution and determination to one's life. Christie discussed the importance of cultivating these qualities to their full strength and how Adhiṭṭhāna brings peace and resolve, allowing individuals to maintain their vows and determination without internal conflict. We also delved into the struggles with chronic dieting, the resistance to change, and the pursuit of core values, ultimately highlighting the importance of finding peace with oneself and circumstances. We concluded with a discussion on the transformative effects of setting and achieving goals and the potential for joy and fulfillment in pursuing and realizing one's aspirations. Check out these resources we referenced. Ajahn Achalo Bhikkhu's Dhamma Talk, also available on Insight Timer Increasing Determination Ajahn Sucitto's book can be downloaded to your device or emailed to your Kindle Pāramī: Ways to Cross Life's Floods Thanissaro Bhikkhu's Book The Ten Perfections: A Study Guide Christie's Book, Audiobook, and Sample Meditations for cultivating the Pāramīcan be found on her App The Beautiful Human

Rebecca Kronlage is a 70 year old cancer survivor who has found miraculous healing through her practice. Rebecca is our January 2024 retreat teacher. In this episode, Rebecca shares about her path into Buddhism and what she's learned along the way. Why is a retreat an important part of contemplative practice? What's her super power? Listen to find out. Rebecca will be teaching an In-Person Retreat in Biloxi, Mississippi "The Wisdom of The Buddha: A Weekend Wake Up Retreat" January 26-28, 2024 To find out more please visit: https://www.floweringlotusmeditation.org/

Listen and if you'd like to join us at our next retreat you can read more and register here. To find out more about Deborah's dharma talk at Sama Studio in Arrabi read more here.