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Where: Wednesday Meditation & Conversation Zoom Link
All are welcome — no prior experience needed!
📧 Any Questions email: [sandiego@shambhala.org](mailto:sandiego@shambhala.org)

# International Short Film Series Through a Buddhist Lens

### Exploring Attachment, Generosity & Letting Go

Film • Reflection • Dharma • Community
📅 Wednesday, January 27, 2027
🕖 Time: 7:00–8:00 PM Pacific Time
💻 Location: Online via Zoom
🌿 Hosted by: San Diego Shambhala

### About This Event

Can a six-minute film offer a meaningful lesson about life, compassion, or the nature of suffering?
Join San Diego Shambhala for an engaging evening of international short films explored through the lens of Buddhist philosophy and contemplative practice.
Each gathering in this new series will feature carefully selected short films followed by guided discussion exploring themes such as karma, compassion, interdependence, attachment, impermanence, and awakening.
Our opening gathering features three short films that offer contrasting perspectives on desire, generosity, and letting go.

### 🎬 Featured Films

1. The Monk and the Fish
France • 1994 • Directed by Michaël Dudok de Wit • Approximately 6 minutes
A monk becomes determined to catch a fish swimming in a monastery pond. His increasingly elaborate efforts lead to an unexpected realization.
Through humor and beautiful animation, this film invites us to reflect on desire, attachment, striving, and the freedom that comes with letting go.
2. The Other Pair
Egypt • 2014 • Directed by Sarah Rozik • Approximately 6 minutes
A young boy admires another child's beautiful shoes. When an unexpected encounter brings their lives together, a simple act of kindness reveals the transformative power of generosity.
This heartwarming film explores compassion, empathy, selflessness, and the joy of giving.
3. The Black Hole
United Kingdom • 2008 • Directed by Phil and Olly • Approximately 3 minutes
An office worker discovers a mysterious black hole printed on a sheet of paper, giving him access to things previously beyond his reach.
What begins as an amusing discovery becomes a cautionary tale about craving, greed, and the consequences of grasping.

### 🌿 What to Expect

We'll watch all three films together, followed by an informal, guided conversation connecting their themes with Buddhist teachings and everyday experiences.
Some questions we'll explore include:

  • How does attachment shape our experience of happiness and suffering?
  • What can generosity teach us about our relationships with others?
  • How do craving and grasping influence our choices?
  • Can mindfulness help us recognize habitual patterns and respond differently?
  • What might these stories teach us about living with greater compassion and awareness?

The total screening time is approximately 15 minutes, leaving plenty of time for reflection and discussion.

### 🌸 Who Can Attend?

Everyone is welcome!
No previous knowledge of Buddhism, meditation, or film studies is necessary.
Whether you're a longtime practitioner, someone curious about Buddhist philosophy, or simply a film enthusiast who enjoys thoughtful conversations, we'd love to have you join us.
Come as you are, enjoy three engaging short films, and explore how their messages connect with everyday life.

### 📍 Event Details

Date: Wednesday, January 27, 2027
Time: 7:00–8:00 PM Pacific Time
Format: Online via Zoom
Admission: Free
Host: San Diego Shambhala
Zoom Access: Meeting information will be provided through the event organizer.
We look forward to sharing an evening of film, reflection, and meaningful conversation with you!
San Diego Shambhala
https://sandiego.shambhala.org/
Film • Reflection • Dharma • Community

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