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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

Compassion, Interdependence & the Power of One Person
Film • Reflection • Dharma • Community
📅 Wednesday, February 24, 2027
🕖 Time: 7:00–8:00 PM Pacific Time
💻 Location: Online via Zoom
🌿 Hosted by: San Diego Shambhala
About This Event
Can one person's quiet, compassionate actions transform the world?
Join San Diego Shambhala for the fourth gathering of our International Short Film Series Through a Buddhist Lens.
This evening, we'll watch the Academy Award-winning animated short film The Man Who Planted Trees, followed by a guided conversation exploring how Buddhist teachings on compassion, interdependence, and selfless action can inspire meaningful change in our lives and communities.
🎬 Featured Film: The Man Who Planted Trees
Canada • 1987 • Directed by Frédéric Back • Approximately 30 minutes
Based on the beloved story by French author Jean Giono.
In a barren region of France, a solitary shepherd named Elzéard Bouffier quietly dedicates his life to planting trees.
Without seeking recognition or reward, he patiently plants one seed after another, year after year.
As the decades pass, his actions transform the landscape. Forests flourish, wildlife returns, and communities experience new possibilities for life.
Through beautiful hand-drawn animation, the film offers a moving reflection on the extraordinary power of ordinary acts of care.
🌿 What to Expect
We'll watch the film together, followed by an informal, guided conversation connecting its themes with Buddhist teachings and everyday experiences.
Some questions we'll explore include:

  • How does the shepherd's dedication reflect the Buddhist practice of generosity?
  • What can we learn about patience and acting without attachment to results?
  • How does the transformation of the landscape illustrate interdependence and cause and effect?
  • Can small, consistent acts of kindness create meaningful change?
  • How might we bring these teachings into our daily lives and our relationship with the Earth?

The film runs approximately 30 minutes, leaving plenty of time for reflection and discussion.
🌱 A Moment for Reflection
The story reminds us that meaningful transformation does not always begin with extraordinary achievements.
Sometimes it begins with a single seed, planted with care.
Perhaps we do not need to change the entire world at once. Perhaps we can begin by planting one seed of kindness, compassion, or wisdom—and tending to it with care.
🌸 Who Can Attend?
Everyone is welcome!
No previous knowledge of Buddhism, meditation, or film studies is necessary.
Whether you're curious about Buddhist philosophy, interested in environmental awareness, or simply enjoy inspiring films and thoughtful conversations, we'd love to have you join us.
Come as you are and enjoy an evening of film, reflection, and community.
📍 Event Details
Date: Wednesday, February 24, 2027
Time: 7:00–8:00 PM Pacific Time
Format: Online via Zoom
Admission: Free
We look forward to sharing this special evening with you!
San Diego Shambhala
https://sandiego.shambhala.org/
Film • Reflection • Dharma • Community

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