Wakefield Branch Class: Transforming Difficulties into Inner Strength

When we experience stress and tension in our lives, it’s easy to feel emotionally overwhelmed or powerless; but it doesn't have to be that way! All of us have inner reservoirs of peace, wisdom, and sanity waiting to be discovered. In particular, we can learn to roll with life’s punches and make peace with adversity. These are essential skills in a world where we cannot always control what happens, whether that’s with personal struggles or the uncertain times we live in. Our real power lies in how we respond and show up for others.

This series will explore powerful mind training techniques and meditations to help turn a difficult situation or person into an opportunity for spiritual growth, compassion and wisdom. Gen Thekchen will explain these methods based on the book “New Eight Steps to Happiness” by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.

“When things go wrong in our life and we encounter difficult situations, we tend to regard the situation itself as our problem, but in reality, whatever problems we experience come from the mind. If we were to respond to difficult situations with a positive and peaceful mind they would not be problems for us; indeed, we may even come to regard them as challenges or opportunities for growth and development. Problems arise only if we respond to difficulties with a negative state of mind. Therefore, if we want to be happy all the time and to be free from problems, we must maintain and develop a peaceful mind.”- From: "How to Transform Your Life"

These classes include two guided meditations and an uplifting talk. After each class there is time for Q&A.

Each class is self-contained, so you are welcome to join at any time. No previous experience with meditation is necessary. You don’t need to bring anything with you, and the meditation is conducted on chairs (though you are welcome to bring a cushion if you prefer).

Everybody is welcome!

CLASS SCHEDULE
Thursdays every two weeks, from 11:00am to 12:15pm

April 10 - What are our real problems and how to solve them

April 24 - The strength and courage of Patient Acceptance

May 8 - The wisdom of karma to understand our situation

May 22 - Using every situation to increase our compassion for others

June 5 - The healing practice of taking and giving

June 19 - The illusion-like nature of our difficulties

Pre-registration is preferred but you're also welcome to register at the door (cash, debit or credit).