Beginning the Bodhisattva’s Journey

This course introduces new students to the Bodhisattva ideal through the lens of the Six Perfections (pāramitās). Each session focuses on practical, real-life applications of these qualities—generosity, ethical living, patience, joyful effort, meditation, and wisdom—as a natural extension of inner clarity. Students explore how these qualities can guide their responses to relationships, work, and social challenges.
Rather than approaching Buddhism as an abstract philosophy, this course emphasizes integration into contemporary Western life. Students will learn to recognize how ancient wisdom traditions can address modern concerns, such as work-life balance, digital overwhelm, consumer culture, and social responsibility.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this 5-week course, students will learn more about how to improve their skills and abilities in the following ways:

Life Skills & Personal Effectiveness
● Learn to transform everyday challenges into opportunities for growth and connection
● Develop greater resilience in high-stress situations like traffic jams, difficult conversations, and workplace conflicts
● Create sustainable approaches to helping others without burning out or losing yourself
● Make decisions that align with your deepest values, even when facing pressure or uncertainty
● Build genuine confidence that comes from inner clarity rather than external validation
Relationship & Communication Enhancement

● Listen with full presence in a distracted world, dramatically improving the quality of your connections
● Respond rather than react when triggered, maintaining your integrity while staying open-hearted
● Set boundaries that protect your well-being while preserving important relationships
● Design meditation and mindfulness practices that fit your actual schedule and living situation
● Balance achievement and rest in ways that increase rather than deplete your energy over time
● Find meaning and purpose in ordinary daily activities, from commuting to household chores
● Develop inner resources for handling uncertainty, loss, and major life transitions
Optional Course Materials
No Prerequisites Required
This course is designed for complete beginners to Buddhism as well as those with some background who want to focus on the practical applications of these teachings. Students from all religious and philosophical backgrounds are welcome.
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by daily stress, seeking more meaningful ways to contribute to your community, or simply curious about how ancient wisdom can enhance your modern life, this course offers a gentle yet engaging path forward.
Charok Lama
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