Sometimes people in the practice of metta are trying to manufacture some incredible, blissful, heart state, but that’s a form of greed.  But, just the natural openness of heart which have when we feel gratitude, when we feel generosity, when we feel friendship; I think we’re just touching that natural way of being in life when the heart is very open.… Read the rest

When Luang Por Sumedho used to start his retreats he’d say, “The past is a memory, the future’s unknown, now is the knowing.”  So, the encouragement is always the awakening to the way things are.… Read the rest

Tahn Ajahn Dtun (Ajahn Tejapanyo translates) answers questions at a dana at Tisarana.  He covers topics such as…

Eliminating sakaya ditthi (self-identity view)

Whether or not it is selfish to end suffering for oneself when there are so many other beings that will be left behind

How to have the determination to be reborn in a situation where we can practice.

… Read the rest

I’ve been suggesting during this retreat to establish mindfulness, so those of you who have just come might just try that.  So, be receptive, let the sounds come to you, let go of thought, listen.… Read the rest