An introduction to Buddhism

Do you think it’s possible to become happy all the time?

The radical suggestion from Buddha is that it is.  And the incredible thing is that his teachings and methods for doing this are still available in this world, over 2500 years after they were first taught.  All we need to do is learn them, understand them and practise them.  And this is within the reach and capabilities of everyone.   If we can learn to be happy in more situations, by putting Buddha’s teachings into practice, then eventually we can be happy all the time.

In this month’s series we will be exploring some foundational buddhist concepts that indicate that lasting happiness is indeed possible through training our mind, steadily and joyfully, using our life experiences as the training ground.   We will look at the nature of the mind, the continuity of consciousness, karma and how we can understand the existence of enlightened beings – those that have achieved permanent happiness and have the ability to help others to the same state.

Meditation is a key component and we will train in meditation in each class.   We start where we are and learn to enjoy our meditation practice, and putting what we learn into practice in everyday life.   Gradually our understanding of our self, our mind and our potential increases.   Month by month, year by year our state of mind improves and eventually we come to realise for ourself that Buddha was right – it IS possible for each of us to become happy all the time 😀

The classes for this series will be based on Geshe Kelsang Gyatso’s latest book – The Mirror of Dharma (with additions)