With our human life, we have the best possible conditions to make spiritual progress. Recognising this opportunity is the key to living a meaningful life. If we are aware that our life is precious, rare and meaningful we will use it in the best possible way.
Also, although we know intellectually that our time is limited, and that we shall definitely pass from this life, generally this knowledge remains in our head and doesn’t touch our heart. Becoming deeply aware of our own impermanence has a profound, positive effect on how we live our everyday life.
These two meditations “Our precious human life” and “Meditating on death and impermanence” work together to help us to live our most meaningful life every day. Both are from the initial scope of Lamrim – “The stages of the path to enlightenment”.
About these classes
This class is part of a 17 week series of classes this season entitled “Training in meditation – a path to a meaningful life”. The class material is based on the book “The Mirror of Dharma – with additions” by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche which explains the step-by-step stages of the path to enlightenment known as “Lamrim” in Tibetan. This structured presentation of Buddha’s teachings is proving very helpful to modern meditation practitioners.
Each class can be attended individually or as part or the series and consists of an explanation of meditation, two guided meditations, a teaching, some discussion and an opportunity to ask questions. As these teachings originate from Buddha, there will be short prayer in English during the class. However, you do not need to be a Buddhist or have any particular belief or faith to join the class and participate. Buddha taught for everyone .
Most people sit on chairs, though some meditation cushions are available. No previous experience is needed and you can “drop-in” to any class on Mondays.
Tea is served from 17.45 and everyone is welcome.