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In this episode, I begin a conversation about the Fourth Noble Truth, the Noble Eightfold Path, and its first step, Right View. I review the first three Noble Truths and reflect on how Buddhism is often misunderstood as a tool for stress reduction, when it is actually a profound path of liberation from suffering. I explore how suffering arises not simply from loss or disappointment, but from grasping. I share why Right View is the essential foundation that allows the rest of the path to unfold with coherence and meaning.

Highlights

• Why Buddhism is more than mindfulness or stress reduction
• The Four Noble Truths and suffering as dissatisfaction rooted in grasping
• Right View as the foundation of the Noble Eightfold Path
• Relative and absolute perspectives on loving kindness and non-duality
• Meditation as letting go, presence, and openness

Mentions

The Four Noble Truths and The Middle Way: Foundations of the Journey, episode 5 of Buddhism Beyond Belief

The Four Noble Truths of Love: Buddhist Wisdom for Modern Relationships by Susan Piver

The Heart of Unconditional Love: A Powerful New Approach to Loving-Kindness Meditation by Tulku Thondup

The Play Of Thought by Kyabje Dudjom Rinpoche

Music

I share a personal story about how Bruce Springsteen’s “Dancing in the Dark” changed my life, and I offer the song as this episode’s after party music.
You can also listen here.

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Fearless Creativity: A Meditation and Writing Retreat 

Join me at Drala Mountain Center in the Colorado Rockies for Fearless Creativity

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Produced by Citizens of Sound

Music by: Derek O'Brien

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