Kadam Dharma, the specific lineage of teachings that we study and practice as "Kadampas," is known for its practical application and integration with the activities of daily life. In many spiritual traditions, there's a gap that exists between one's spiritual life and one's worldly life that often makes for an apparent contradiction between what a person believes and how a person lives. For example, there are spiritual traditions that appear to have no problem believing in the sanctity of life while being fully supportive of a given war or other oppressive treatment of living beings. "Thou shalt not kill" and other core spiritual beliefs then begin to feel like convenient lip service to spiritual ideas rather than the heart of one's actual spiritual practice and daily life.
In Kadam Buddhism, the essence of spiritual practice is living one's daily life as a genuine spiritual or "holy" person and doing so in a quiet and humble way that does not lead to pretense, self righteousness, or negative judgment of others. The trainings and methods for accomplishing this integration form the essence of Kadam Dharma practice, as taught and exemplified by the father of Kadam Dharma, the great Buddhist master, Atisha (982 - 1054).
For the months of September and October, we will be looking closely at the beloved and famous words spoken by Atisha upon the request of the Tibetan people, called "Atisha's Advice." These words encapsulate the way of life of a qualified Kadampa practitioner. This timeless wisdom is as directly and profoundly beneficial, practical and applicable now in modern times as it was when it was originally spoken. Indeed, the immense problems the world is now facing, and the related present and increasing suffering, stress and worry that modern people face in their daily lives would not and could not exist if Atisha's Advice were followed.
As we apply these teachings to our own daily lives, we will see for ourselves how our personal human problems reduce, ease up, and, with time and steady practice, disappear completely.
Please join us this fall season on Thursday evenings at the Worcester Friends Meeting House from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m., for teachings and meditations on Atisha's Advice. No prior experience is required. Teachings and meditations are suitable for both beginners and more seasoned practitioners.
