INSIGHT

NEWSLETTER

FALL WINTER

2004/2005 Compassionate Awareness: IMS Schedules: Understanding the Nature of Suffering The Retreat Center 2005 An Interview with Carol Wilson The Forest Refuge 2005 Bhikkhus, both formerly and now what I teach is suffering and the cessation of suffering. – The Buddha Teacher Interview Carol Wilson sat her first meditation retreat in Bodhgaya, India, in January, 1971. (Taught by the renowned meditation master S. N. Goenka, the course was a IMS News milestone in the transmission of Buddhist teachings from East to West – other and Developments participants included Joseph Goldstein, Sharon Salzberg, Ram Dass and Daniel Goleman.) Today, after more than 30 years of practice, Carol is a member BCBS 2004/05 of IMS’s core faculty, teaching at both the Retreat Center and the Forest Refuge. In discussion with Insight Newsletter, she shares her insights into the fundamental Course Schedule Outline teachings of the Buddha regarding the nature of suffering.

Carol, what set you on a course How did that lead you to teach? towards meditation and that From that point on, I was irresistibly first retreat in India? drawn to the Dharma, to practice and During my late teens, I felt that life serve. Over the next 15 years, I sat longer didn’t quite make sense. I became retreats, cooked at IMS after it opened in aware of a deep inner urge that I 1976, ordained as a nun in Thailand, couldn’t define. It drew me to India. practiced intensively in England and I didn’t intend to learn about Buddhism returned to IMS to manage the center. specifically, but simply to travel, and By 1986, this process had naturally perhaps understand myself a little progressed into formal teaching. better. While at a yoga conference in New Delhi, I heard about a meditation In what ways does practice retreat in Bodhgaya with Goenkaji. inform our lives? I went to that course, and it changed Firstly, we need to define ‘practice.’ For my life. many years, when I thought about this,

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THE NEWSLETTER OF THE INSIGHT MEDITATION SOCIETY it was with an emphasis on the form of to incredible frustration, disillusionment, INSIGHT intensive meditation. In my early years anger and bitterness. When we stop NEWSLETTER of meditating, I coasted from retreat to looking for a place to assign blame, either retreat, without giving much attention to externally or internally, we are then free A twice yearly publication of the Insight mindfulness in daily life. The depth of to turn our attention inward and explore Meditation Society, a tax-exempt nonprofit organization whose purpose is to foster concentration and clear seeing that the real source of the anguish. the practice of vipassana (insight) and metta would arise during a course was very (lovingkindness) meditation, and to preserve compelling. This made it so much easier At this point, we can discover that the the essential Buddhist teachings of liberation. to notice the greed, hatred and delusion way we relate to our experience of pain that came up in my mind than was is the cause of our suffering, rather than The goal of the practice is the awakening of wisdom and compassion through right possible to observe during the complexity the pain itself. This was a major insight action and cultivating mindful awareness and speed of everyday householder life. for me. in all aspects of life. So I naturally preferred the silence and clarity of retreat. Can meditation practice help Editor: Gyano Gibson Production: Éowyn Ahlstrom those with chronic and acute Cover photo: Libby Vigeon It wasn’t long before I recognized it body pain? IMS Buddha Photos: Dawn Close, doesn’t make sense to separate the rest It has transformed my own situation Libby Vigeon & Éowyn Ahlstrom of life from practice – in fact, to do so is enormously. Some years ago I discovered Design: Lux Productions a delusion and creates suffering. Life is a I have an autoimmune disorder that

Please address correspondence to: process of continuous change; we move affects my energy and my joints. IMS, 1230 Pleasant St. through various states of mind and Initially, I was caught in the idea that I Barre, MA 01005, USA conditions, whether we’re undertaking was a spiritual failure because I had this Phone: (978) 355-4378 formal periods of meditation, or taking disease. A subtle pain in my knee could Email: [email protected] care of family, business, home and health. set my mind to imagining a bleak and Website: www.dharma.org My practice has shifted from being a crippling future. I blamed myself and felt Printed in Canada on recycled small, prescribed part of my day to betrayed by my body. All this only made paper using soy-based inks having it embrace everything. Every the physical experience seem worse. moment can be fodder for awakening. This growing understanding helps me to Bringing basic mindfulness – attentive- Let Your Legacy stay interested and alert, not only during ness coupled with compassion – to the times when life is full of beauty and physical manifestation of pain can be Preserve the Dharma goodness, but also during those illuminating. It’s important, however, challenging times of pain and suffering. to be clear about where to focus the attention – it isn’t skillful to linger on A simple way to ensure that What opportunities can pain thoughts about the pain, such as the and suffering present to us? name of our sickness, its prognosis or future generations benefit The first noble truth of the Buddha’s our worries. Instead, it’s more helpful from the teachings is to teachings is that everyone suffers. to bring stable and compassionate Whether on a grand or small scale, awareness to the actual sensations in place IMS in your will. pain touches us all. The unreliability the body, without trying to change or of not having things the way we want analyze them. This takes some forms part of everybody’s journey. willingness on our part. For information on how to do this, The teachings show us that this is or to talk about additional planned nobody’s fault; it is simply how it is. I learned that the experience of the pain as it is in the moment may be vastly giving options, please contact the Frequently, we look for something or different from the unbearable nature of IMS Development Office by someone to blame for our suffering – the mind’s fears. The repeated practice often ourselves. This keeps us caught in a of holding the pain with a gentle and calling (978) 355-4378, ext. 19 painful fantasy that somehow everything undemanding kindness can free the or emailing [email protected] can or should be made okay – and leads mind from many tormenting patterns.

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Compassionate awareness is free of awareness, we see that it is reactive LOU ALBER concept. Mindfulness practice helps us emotions that cause us to suffer. to cultivate compassionate awareness. To prevent their seduction and rule over Another good technique is metta, or our lives, the first step in working with lovingkindness practice. Through this, reactive emotions is to acknowledge I realized I had been relating to my body when they’re present within us. We also as an enemy. With that understanding, need to put aside the notion that we my attitude naturally changed to one of should make them go away. Through compassion for this body. I could then practice, we become willing to explore make choices about how to care for my them, much as we investigate physical physical and emotional well-being from pain, without either apportioning blame a loving and informed place, rather or being driven to act from them. than from fear. Even if this is possible for only very brief moments, it’s quite significant – it means Carol Wilson What about mental suffering? we’re learning to relate to life with How can it be a tool for greater faith. What inspiration and awakening? motivation can we draw from Things seem more complex when we talk So we start to move from identifying the Buddha’s teachings, given about mental suffering – for example, the with thoughts such as “Oh, I’m so the current global picture of suffering of loss or of those patterns of afraid” to examining “Oh, this is the so much suffering? mind such as worthlessness, pride and way fear feels.” As this perspective The Buddha taught that all of us, without jealousy. This type of suffering is as deepens, we make a huge shift of exception, want to be happy, no matter much a part of the human condition as allegiance towards trust and finding what actions we take through ignorance, physical pain – for example, at some refuge in this new understanding. clinging and aversion. If I continue point in everyone’s life a loved one will Although the method is simple, it’s not looking into my own heart to discover die, someone we love could abandon us, always easy! It’s helpful to start with how I contribute to both the hatred and or we could lose our financial security. small situations of reactivity to the joy in the world, I stand a good strengthen our confidence before chance of lessening that hatred, and So, how to practice with this? The attempting to cut through seemingly increasing that joy. Buddha taught that the key to the insurmountable suffering. cessation of suffering is to free our At the end of every retreat I teach, hearts and minds from greed, hatred Sometimes we shut down in the face of I notice how much more open and bright and delusion. On the spiritual path it’s suffering. We don’t feel anything, nor are each of us has become over the duration not uncommon to assume that we’re we inclined to do anything about it. of the course. We can take that radiance not supposed to experience any reactive This is a form of shrinking away into back into the world – through all our emotions like anger, grief, fear, selfish- passivity. Gratitude practice is one different interactions it naturally ness, irritability or grumpiness. powerful tool that serves as an antidote communicates itself with anyone we Sometimes, we can be in such denial that and allows us to move forward. meet. Just as hatred is catching, so is we don’t know these emotions are there. compassion, so is awareness, so is love. This attitude interferes with our ability By recalling any fortunate circumstance to bring mindfulness to the shadowy and of our life, or a person who has helped us Carol Wilson, together with unacceptable corners of ourselves. in whatever major or minor way, we can Guy Armstrong and Rodney Smith will transform our worldview from one of teach a vipassana course (including a In order to be free, we have to look helplessness and contraction to one of period each day devoted to metta honestly at our internal landscape – ease and quiet connectedness. From this practice) at the IMS Retreat Center, not with labels of good or bad, but to place of balanced clarity, the actions we March 25 – April 3, 2005. discover what causes suffering in our take in our daily lives have a greater Please visit www.dharma.org hearts and what doesn’t. When we potential to affect positive change, both or see pages 16 & 21-22 for schedule observe with this compassionate in ourselves and in the world. and registration information.

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INSIGHT

As our organizational structure has lines of authority, streamlining the Moving evolved, so too have our primary con- decision-making process, and stituencies. The generation of teachers improving communication and who trained in Asia and founded IMS conflict-resolution skills. Forward is aging. In recent years, the average An open letter from Andrew Dey, age of our retreatants has been Facilities – We will explore greater President of the IMS Board of Directors increasing as well. use of environmentally-friendly designs and resources. We will The strategic planning process was upgrade existing facilities as needed. Since sitting my first retreat at IMS, inspired by the significance of these at the age of 17, I have felt deep challenges. Eileen Harrington, a Diversity – We will cultivate diversity appreciation for all the organization consultant and a friend of IMS, skill- across all aspects of the IMS communi- stands for. I value its mission to fully led the effort, which included six ty. We envision a vibrant community uphold the possibility of liberation for months of diligent work by representa- of retreatants, donors, friends, teach- all beings. I value the teachings it tives of a cross section of the IMS ers, board and staff, representing all offers, and the wisdom and compassion community. The process identified racial and economic backgrounds, they give to our lives. In this spirit, seven key issues facing IMS, and ages, genders and levels of wellness. I’d like to share with you the outcome established our path for the coming of the strategic planning process that years. Our seven strategic goals are: Leadership & Succession – In recogni- IMS conducted this year. tion of the importance of long-term Programming – In order to meet the support for current teachers, we will With the Forest Refuge coming to practice needs of the growing commu- train new teachers who will be well- fruition, we recognized the importance nity of meditators, we will increase the experienced to offer the Dharma to of taking stock of our current reality, number and variety of courses offered. the next generation. We will establish and clarifying goals for the future. The courses will remain firmly rooted board and staff development programs Strategic planning should periodically in the Theravada Buddhist tradition, so that greater responsibility can be be undertaken by all organizations. while representing a broader spectrum assumed whenever needed. When done well, the results describe of emphasis and duration. We hope the overarching priorities and guide the that these changes will invigorate and Outreach – We will significantly allocation of resources to attend to enhance the quality of the retreat increase awareness of IMS programs those priorities. It allows all those who experience, while continuing to provide by expanding our outreach to individu- publicly represent IMS – teachers, staff teachings appropriate for both new als and groups seeking access to the and board members – to move forward, and experienced students. Buddha’s teachings. Our efforts will with shared understanding, along the include cultivating media relationships same course. Financial Position – We are committed and opportunities, developing an to providing broad access to IMS, enhanced and interactive website, The strategic planning process and to ensuring a lasting legacy of collaborating with other sanghas to provided a lens through which to view the Buddha’s teachings for future promote the Dharma, and producing IMS’s development. During our generations. We intend to stabilize timely literature of interest to experi- 28-year history, we have evolved from and eventually reduce retreat fees, enced and potential retreatants, and to operating a single facility governed while continuing to provide an optimal existing and prospective donors. by consensus to today’s larger, more experience for meditators and staff. hierarchical organization with two We will achieve these goals by As we progress toward full implemen- distinct programs accommodating a total increasing our endowment, and tation of these goals, we would like to of 130 retreatants. While the gradual operating cost-efficiently. keep the sangha informed of the chal- addition of a professional salaried staff lenges we face, and the successes we to the original volunteer positions has Organizational Structure and Culture – achieve. I welcome questions and com- allowed us to improve the retreat To support our programming and ments about these strategic issues. I can environment, it has also engendered a financial objectives, we will strengthen be reached at [email protected]. rich mix of issues relating to communi- our organizational team of teachers, May our work together continue to ty, sustainability and governance. board members and staff by clarifying benefit all beings.

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Web News: Online Sliding Scale Fees If you have experience in working Registration and Donation with teenagers or children, are an As many of you know, we introduced experienced meditator, and are For almost 30 years, registering for a sliding scale fee structure in 2004 that interested in being a group leader, IMS retreats has required a somewhat allows retreat participants to pay at please call us at (978) 355-4378 or email cumbersome process, on the part of a rate that best suits their financial [email protected]. We are happy to offer both retreatants and staff who process situation. For most 2005 courses, sitting days in return for your service. each application. To sign up for 2005 there is no cost increase for practice Retreat Center courses, you can now at either the Retreat Center or the In addition, funding is needed to cover register online through our website. If Forest Refuge. the cost of special materials for these you have a credit card, this new and retreats, such as Dharma-related books secure option can save time and ensure If you can afford to pay at our Sponsor for the teens, and art supplies for the the instant arrival of your application! level, you help make it possible for children. Please contact us if you others with lesser means to attend. would like to find out more about An email acknowledging receipt will becoming a 2005 benefactor for one be sent to you immediately and further We have now added a new or both of these courses. correspondence will follow advising Scholarship rate to our fee structure at you of the status of your application, the Retreat Center. If you would like Summer High School Program once it is processed. to register in this category, please see page 13 for further information. For five days in July, almost 40 Donating online is also now easier, teenagers, parents and faculty from the particularly for international donors. Assistance for Teen Hyde School in Maine came to IMS to Membership contributions, meal dana & Family Retreats explore meditation and the retreat envi- offerings, support for any of our ronment. For many of the participants it scholarship funds, as well as donations Each year, IMS endeavors to cultivate was their first experience of extended to capital and endowment campaigns the mindfulness, compassion and periods of silence.Their retreat afforded can be made quickly and safely wisdom of the next generation through them an opportunity to learn how mind- through our encrypted system. two of its courses: the Teen Retreat fulness and lovingkindness practices can

Visit www.dharma.org and click on for ages 14-19 and the Family Retreat. help with significant life transitions. CHRISTINE PICHLKOSTNER Ways To Support IMS.

A generous donation has made these developments possible – we are most grateful.

Fall • W i n t e r 2004 / 2005 Page 5 As one student said, “What I took away Do You Live Near IMS? he says. “Plus, the food alone is from IMS is a better sense of my inner worth the trip!” self and a final step to becoming fully IMS often needs volunteer assistance honest.” Another participant left “with from the local community for short If you are available on a regular a powerful aspiration to let go of my periods of time. If you have already sat basis, weekly or biweekly, that is prejudice of others as well as myself.” a retreat at IMS, and currently have especially useful. If interested, some spare hours, why not come and please contact Human Resources. Check Our Website help us – for half a day, a few days – Email [email protected] or whatever time your schedule permits. call (978) 355-4378 ext. 23. Due to last-minute cancellations, places in some courses at both the This can be a wonderful way to Retreat Center and the Forest Refuge experience a practice community and to can suddenly open up. We recommend serve the Dharma. Tasks are many and that you check www.dharma.org (click varied across our office, development, on IMS) for the latest announcements housekeeping and kitchen departments.

regarding space availability. CHRISTINE PICHLKOSTNER For the last two years, Rob Weiland, The site also gives information on: a lawyer from Wayland, MA, has volunteered for two days each week. - Program schedules and registration “Volunteers form an integral part of the - Online donations team and, through their activities at - Interviews with teachers IMS, help make it possible for yogis to - Latest news attend retreats. The staff at IMS - Job postings comprises a fascinating amalgam of - Links to teachers, centers and types, with compassion, honesty and other sites of interest wisdom as their guiding principles,” Local volunteer Rob Weiland, who helps out in the Retreat Center office.

connection to the dharma... connection to the oral tradition... connection to your practice Inspired Teachings Series 2005 Now available on CD or Audio Cassette

When you subscribe to the Inspired Teachings Series There is no fixed price for subscribing to the Inspired 2005 program, we will choose four tapes from among Teachings Series 2005 program. Please join us in the latest, most powerful and inspiring Dharma talks practicing dana together. Your contribution can make a and send them to you throughout the year 2005. Our crucial difference to whether Dharma Seed will goal is to support you in staying connected to your succeed in our effort to operate on the principle of practice, which in turn benefits everyone. dana. Please be as generous as you can be.

Also remember that the Inspired Teachings Series 2005 program makes a great gift.

Dharma Seed Archival Center Please join us and subscribe to Inspired Teachings Series 2005 by calling Dharma Seed at (800) 969-7333, email us at [email protected] or mail to: Box 66, Wendell Depot, MA 01380 it’s what we do: preserve the teachings... share the dharma

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New Scholarships Available Thank You to Yogis Helping Yogis Celebrate Sitting participants

Three new scholarship funds have We would like to extend our recently been established, due to the appreciation to the many participants generosity of retreatants and friends in our recent campaign to raise funds of IMS. for the IMS Youth Outreach Scholarship. Individuals, small sitting The first, known as the Danic groups and larger Dharma centers Scholarship, is specifically for those around the country joined us over the in pain. In recognition of the greater summer as we celebrated meditation degrees of suffering that some of us and honored Joseph Goldstein’s 60th experience, an anonymous donor has birthday wish to develop a lasting kindly designated funds to provide the program supporting youth in practice. means for people in any kind of pain – Cambridge Insight whether emotional or physical – to One sangha, the Twin Cities Vipassana attend IMS retreats, both at the Meditation Community in Minneapolis/ Meditation Center Retreat Center and the Forest Refuge. St.Paul, held a benefit that included CIMC is a non-residential urban If you would like to receive assistance music, retreat stories, a skit about the center for the teaching and practice from this fund, call us at (978) 355- five hindrances, a video of interviews 4378 or email [email protected]. with teachers as well as a silent auction. of insight meditation. At IMS, staff and friends gathered CIMC’s programs are designed to If you are interested in contributing for an afternoon of sponsored sitting provide a strong foundation in to the fund, expanding our ability to and walking meditation, followed by formal meditation as well as daily offer this kind of support, please call a lively community dinner. Members practice. Our schedule includes daily (978) 355-4378 ext. 19 or email of other centers – from Hawai’i, up and sittings, weekly Dharma talks, [email protected]. down the west coast, across the south and southwest to the midwest, the DC ongoing classes and practice groups, The second fund benefits those who region, New York and the northeast – teacher interviews, and a variety would like to participate in the 2005 offered contributions at local evening of weekend workshops and People of Color Retreat, to be held at talks, sits and other Dharma events. meditation retreats. the IMS Retreat Center, July 29- August 3. A generous donation allows Celebrate Sitting was a great success, An open invitation is extended to us to offer this course at reduced rates due to the efforts of all of you who took all to stop by CIMC and browse – see page 16 for more information. the time to play a part. We have raised through the library or join in any thousands of dollars. On behalf of the of the public sittings or Wednesday The third fund, created from a many younger people who can now bequest, supports practice at the Forest come on retreat at IMS as a result of evening Dharma talks. A growing Refuge. Anyone involved in projects – this effort, we sincerely thank you. number of out-of-town yogis have either in the US or elsewhere – that enrolled in our weekend help individuals or communities attain Gift Certificates Now Available! retreats. Contact us for a list of bed economic independence is welcome and breakfasts in the area. to apply. Please call the Forest Introduce a friend to IMS or support Refuge at (978) 355-2063 or email a long-term retreatant. For further 331 Broadway [email protected] to find out more. information please call the IMS Cambridge, MA 02139 registrar at (978) 355-4378 ext. 20 or email [email protected]. Office: (617) 441-9038 24-hour information and fax line: (617) 491-5070 Website: www.cimc.info

Fall • W i n t e r 2004 / 2005 Page 7 IMS Program Highlights

At the Retreat Center... Why is this? “At face value, the notion can be helpful in their own efforts that freedom can be cultivated by being towards freedom,” she added. Perhaps you’ve often wondered silent, sitting down, closing your eyes what happens on a meditation retreat. and attending to your inner experience Almost one hundred people gathered Or maybe you’ve just started to can sound suspiciously like a prescrip- at the Garrison Institute last June, practice vipassana and would tion for individualistic, ultimately- ready to take some steps along the path. appreciate more guidance. If so, a oppressive passivity,” Rachel explains. “The sense of community was palpable,” weekend course for new students observed Allyson Pimentel, a Black could be of interest. Taught by “Teachers of color, however, can be woman from Manhattan. “There was Narayan and Michael Liebenson living, breathing proof that practicing something symbolically powerful about Grady, it will take place April 15-17. these teachings helps us deal skillfully being in that large meditation hall, with the personal and collective suffer- knowing that on the surrounding Following on from the successful 2004 ing of ‘ism’ schisms. When we give cushions were other people of color all Youth Retreat, Michele McDonald, personal examples of how becoming engaged in the same quest for freedom. together with Rebecca Bradshaw and deeply aware of the workings of Even though we were from different Marvin Belzer will lead a summer greed, hatred and delusion in our lives ethnic backgrounds, each with its own retreat for 18-32 year olds. leads to freedom from the clutches of historical and cultural struggle, we The course – from August 22-28 – those dynamics, other people of color came together in a common practice.” will focus on meeting the challenges empathize with our experience. They of early adulthood with greater love, can see themselves in our shoes. That “I was astounded and encouraged by courage and openness. empathy motivates and supports them the vast array of colors sitting around to take a few steps along the Dharma me,” commented Jerry Jung, a Two retreats in 2005 will offer yoga path to see if the Buddha’s teachings Chinese American born and raised in instruction to complement vipassana practice. Steven Smith and others will help us cultivate a deepening aware- ness in a vipassana and yoga course, May 20-29. Larry Rosenberg and his RODNEY JOHNSON team will teach a vipassana and Viniyoga course with an emphasis on mindful breathing, June 24-July 1. A full listing of Retreat Center courses is on page 16.

People of Color Retreat

“The liberating practices rooted in the Buddha’s teachings only become accessible for some people of color when offered through the experience of teachers with similar backgrounds, life stories and skin tones,” says Rachel Bagby, one of the teachers of the successful People of Color retreat, held again last summer.

Page 8 Fall • W i n t e r 2004 / 2005 New York. “As the collective energy of room, the hallways, the bathrooms and our initial meditation period permeated the accommodation areas, awareness the environment, a profound sense of of habituated patterns grows. “As I peace enveloped me.” observed the way my mind manufac- tured and replayed scenarios over and For Alicia Muñoz, from Brooklyn, it over again, I made some shocking dis- was her first retreat. She didn’t know if coveries about its relationship to reali- she could survive three days of silence ty,” Alicia Muñoz tells. “I was acutely and meditation. On top of that, she had aware of the extent to which I resist to suddenly vacate her unsafe Brooklyn life as it presents itself or how stub- The Insight Meditation apartment just prior to the start of the bornly I try to adjust situations to suit course. Sitting in the hall on the open- my perceived needs. With this, I start- Community of Washington ing night, her anxiety shifted, and a ed to get in touch with feelings of sense of solidarity with the other helplessness, fear, shame and anger.” IMCW offers training in Vipassana retreatants arose. “Being together – or Insight – meditation and related with African Americans, Asians and By the final day, the capacity for Buddhist practices that awaken the heart Latinos all taking a vow of silence and greater ease and spaciousness had and mind. We serve the entire DC metro committing themselves to learning and developed. “Something that resembled area. In addition to our flagship practicing the Dharma for three days, the compassionate awareness the teach- I became excited by the prospect of ers referred to in their Dharma talks Wednesday night class in Bethesda, developing a greater sensitivity to the and guided meditations was apparent,” IMCW’s programs include weekly classes subtleties of my inner experience.” explains Alicia. “It felt joyous. This and sitting groups in Washington; awareness was – and continues to be – Takoma Park and Frederick, MD; The teachers helped clarify how this a tremendously refreshing antidote to northern Virginia and heightened sensitivity has the potential those feelings of insecurity and isola- Shepherdstown,WV. We also offer not only to transform those on the tion. My problems didn’t go away – but course, but also to flow on to those who my attitude toward them has changed.” nonresidential weekend retreats and come in contact with the participants workshops, as well as a thriving once retreats are over – coworkers, “No striving, nothing to attain” was community of peer-led Kalyana Mitta – friends, relatives and partners. “I began the insight Jerry Jung came away or spiritual friends – groups. to understand on a cellular level how, in with, the retreat having reminded him Longer residential retreats, held order to decrease suffering in the world, of the sanctity of life and “the splendor several times a year, are open to I needed to cultivate greater kindness of just being.” toward myself. This was an important out-of-towners as well as DC-area insight,” Alicia says. “Everybody’s efforts to practice, the residents. IMCW is guided by founder glimmers of insights evident in their and senior teacher, Tara Brach, Helen Wood, born in the Philippines questions, and the lights in their eyes in addition to a Teachers Council and living in California, decided to at the close of the course all spurred me and Board of Directors. sit the course at the last minute. to redouble my own commitment The retreat reinforced for her how to this path,” says Rachel Bagby. important it is to maintain a consistent “The three jewels of the Buddha, IMCW extends a warm welcome to both daily meditation practice. Noticing Dharma and Sangha were certainly newcomers and experienced meditators. everyone during walking meditation polished and shining brightly by the There are many ways to participate in sessions, she felt: “Time stood still in retreat’s end.” every step.” our community and deepen your Note: The next People of Color retreat practice. Please visit our website for a Retreat life is a process that gradually will be held at the IMS Retreat Center, full schedule of classes, retreats and unfolds. As mindfulness deepens, not July 29 - August 3, 2005. It will be taught other activities. only while sitting in the meditation again by Joseph Goldstein, Gina Sharpe, hall, but also throughout all activities, Rachel Bagby and Russell Brown. More Look for us at www.imcw.org whether they take place in the dining information can be found on page 16 & 20. or call us at (202) 986-2922

Fall • W i n t e r 2004 / 2005 Page 9

INSIGHT

At the Forest Refuge...

A personal retreat at the Forest Refuge LISA ELANDER is an opportunity for experienced EDWIN KELLEY meditators to considerably deepen their practice. Throughout 2005, many respected vipassana teachers will be in residence to guide exploration of this 2,500 year old path to liberation.

Eminent Burmese meditation master Sayadaw U Pandita will return to the Forest Refuge for six weeks, May 15 – June 30. He will lead a structured retreat, and yogis will be expected to follow his schedule and instructions, based on the method taught by the late Mahasi Sayadaw. A lottery will be held Sayadaw U Lakkhana Sayadaw U Janaka at the for this course; applications are due no Forest Refuge, July 2004 later than December 1, 2004. participating in some guided sittings,” We are honored to host another explains Myoshin. “This is an ideal “When I teach, I like to emphasize renowned Burmese meditation master, time to launch a longer retreat, or a natural awareness,” she explains. Sayadaw U Lakkhana, for the month to receive an introduction to the “This encourages us to deepen our of August. In addition to his extensive Forest Refuge’s less-structured form sensitivity and to respect our own teaching commitments and his role as of practice.” unfolding of the meditative process.” abbot of the Kyaswa Valley Monastery in Sagaing Hills in upper Burma, he Marcia, a former IMS resident teacher, For schedule and application has spent the last 20 years establishing recently co-founded a small long-term information, please see page 15. medical and educational support center, The Mountain Hermitage, in services for the local ordained and Taos, New Mexico, where she lives. lay communities. He will offer classical “The development of sustained Seeking Volunteer Consultants Burmese Theravada teachings, comple- concentration and mindfulness as a mented by contemporary interpreta- way of investigating the selfless nature IMS frequently needs help tions and understandings from Steven of all experience can be some of the from people with professional Smith, one of the first Western students most profound and fruitful work we skills willing to volunteer some of Sayadaw U Pandita. This fusion of do,” she observes. “As we recognize time or resources. East and West provides a unique door this more fully, we realize the If you have expertise for practitioners to enter this ancient potential for liberating insight.” in one of the areas below, practice lineage. please contact Deborah Crown, Throughout July, Patricia Genoud- Human Resources Director. From February 1-14, Marcia Rose Feldman will teach together with Call (978) 355-4378 ext. 31 and Myoshin Kelley will conduct a Myoshin. Patricia is a student of or email [email protected]. two-week intensive vipassana course. Sayadaw U Pandita, and ordained as Instead of the usual two interviews and a nun for the six months of practice • IT Technical/Help Desk Support Dharma talks given each week at the she undertook at the Forest Refuge in • Human Resources center, they will offer three interviews 2003. Over the last two decades, she • Salary Administration and Dharma talks, providing an has also received Dzogchen teachings increased level of teacher support. from the late meditation masters HH • Employment or Immigration Law “Yogis will also have the option of Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche and Tulku • Brochure Design/Printing Services following a suggested schedule and Urgyen Rinpoche.

Page 10 Fall • W i n t e r 2004 / 2005 INSIGHT

Entering the Silence for long, uninterrupted periods, when it didn’t fit my ideas of how it A Personal Retreat at the Forest Refuge or for shorter sessions – as the chang- should be, I suffered. I had to learn By Richard Shankman ing cycles of the practice unfolded. that both the pleasant and the There can be a danger with this, unpleasant come and go. Happiness IMS has long been a special center however, and I had to be vigilant and sadness come and go. I under- for Dharma practice and I had been concerning my fleeting moods, so that stood that the Dharma knows when looking forward to spending time at they didn’t hold sway over my routine. and how to unfold, and that by simply the Forest Refuge since first hearing meeting experience with mindfulness of plans for its construction. I had sat Over the course of a long retreat, and clear comprehension, to the best quite a few retreats, and in recent there are natural ups and downs in of my ability, everything developed in years had been practicing in a less energy levels and enthusiasm. Some its own time. structured, more self-directed style. days the momentum and ardor flowed So when the new facility opened, effortlessly, with all the factors of And so the eleven months passed. I applied and was accepted. enlightenment balanced and in I watched the seasons complete a harmony. On other days it all seemed full turn. I watched the animals and I arrived in August of 2003, and to fall apart, as though my practice creatures that live around the center a very different person left eleven was feeble and ineffective. But I came adapt to the dramatic Massachusetts months later! But one step at a time. to see that my job was simply to show climate changes. I watched the staff What struck me immediately on enter- up, to sit and walk as continuously as offer their untiring selfless service. ing the buildings was the power of possible, regardless of how I felt. Their kindness, care and sensitivity the silence; the stillness was palpable. were the greatest of the many There were no bells or mass move- After six months of practicing conditions at the Forest Refuge that ments of people at specific times, intensively in this way, the teachers support letting go and simply being. going to and from the meditation hall, strongly suggested I spend a week as or to and from the dining room. a work retreatant, helping out for five The floors are made of special cork hours a day in the kitchen. For long- tiles, which absorb the sound – term practitioners, this activity is I rarely heard anyone walking through recommended so that integration and

the halls. Even during meals, the usual grounding of everything that happens ÉOWYN AHLSTROM bustle of silverware, dishes and pots on retreat can take place. I suddenly was quieter. found myself quite resistant to their request. I was deep in samadhi I was able to find the right amount of (concentration) at the time, and was solitude to suit my temperament and enjoying the precious stillness. I didn’t changing needs. Over the months, I want to emerge and participate in did almost all the sitting practice in daily activities, imagining it would my room, but often walked in the din- somehow hurt my retreat. But I ing hall and the numerous other followed their guidance and that week indoor and outdoor spots around the turned out to provide a great teaching center. I noticed some people rarely in letting go – it unmasked a level of left their rooms at all, while others clinging to the stillness that I hadn’t tended to sit in the deeply peaceful been aware of. meditation hall or the counseling area. Richard Shankman let go of his professional During the following months this life to sit the long retreat. He left the Forest Since there was no set schedule, realization deepened and matured. Refuge in July 2004 and returned to other than meals and yogi job periods, I observed that I couldn’t make Oakland, CA, where he is currently in I was free to find my own rhythm. anything happen in my practice, no transition between retreat life and whatever The benefit of the Forest Refuge style matter how much I tried. If I clung may come next. Meditating since 1970, of practice is that it allowed me to to any heightened experiences I he co-founded the Sati Center for Buddhist customize my schedule, and optimize suffered. If I worried about how the Studies, and created meditation programs the daily routine – sitting or walking practice was going, or if I resisted in two California State prisons.

Fall • W i n t e r 2004 / 2005 Page 11

About IMS

Insight Meditation Society General Information Meals at both facilities are vegetarian. 1230 Pleasant St., Barre, MA 01005, USA Retreat Center courses are designed Accommodations at the Retreat Center www.dharma.org for both new and experienced medita- are simple single and double rooms; all tors. Instruction in meditation and spaces at the Forest Refuge are single. RETREAT CENTER evening talks about the Buddha’s Men and women do not share rooms. (978) 355-4378; [email protected] teachings are given daily. Individual Camping is not available. Office hours: daily, 10am-12 noon & 3-5pm or group interviews with the teachers (except Sun. & Tues.) take place at regular intervals. Evening Discourses Complete silence is maintained during When a Retreat Center course is FOREST REFUGE most retreats at all times, except dur- in progress, anyone is welcome to (978) 355-2063; [email protected] ing question and interview periods. attend the evening Dharma talks; Fax: (978) 355-4307 A typical daily schedule starts at 5 am meditators with vipassana experience Office hours: Mon.-Fri., 9am-4pm and ends at 10 pm. The entire day is are also welcome to attend group spent in silent practice comprising sittings. Some restrictions apply. The Insight Meditation Society was founded alternate periods of sitting and walk- Please call the Retreat Center office in 1975 as a nonprofit organization to ing meditation, as well as a one-hour for a daily schedule. uphold the possibility of liberation for all work period. This schedule, in combi- beings. Its Buddhist meditation retreats pro- nation with the silence, group support Lotteries vide spiritual refuge, allowing the in-depth and daily instruction, provides a bene- Due to the popularity of certain courses, exploration of freedom from the sufferings ficial environment for developing and admission is by lottery. Each lottery of mind and heart. deepening meditation practice. course has a deadline (see schedules on pages 15 & 16). All registrations IMS now operates two retreat facilities – the At the Forest Refuge, retreatants received by the deadline are included Retreat Center and the Forest Refuge, which can select a time to come based either in the lottery. Those not selected by are set on 160 secluded wooded acres in on their own schedule, or on working lottery, as well as any late registrations, the quiet country of central Massachusetts. with a particular teacher in residence are put on a wait list. The Retreat Center, which commenced a (see the Teacher Schedule on page 15). program of silent courses in 1976, offers In consultation with the teachers, a per- At the Retreat Center, anyone who a full yearly schedule of meditation retreats sonalized program of meditation prac- has applied for a particular lottery lasting in duration from a weekend to three tice is created, designed to nurture the course two or more times without months. Most courses run for 7-9 days. A highest aspiration for liberation. getting in is eligible for automatic group of senior teachers provides regular inclusion – however, you must notify guidance and direction as well as teaching Support for a personal retreat us if this is the case. a number of retreats each year themselves. includes two individual interviews In addition, recognized insight meditation with a teacher each week and twice- At the Forest Refuge, lottery teachers from all over the world come to weekly Dharma talks in the medita- participation is dependent on an offer teachings. tion hall. Tapes are also available on approved application. evenings without talks. The Forest Refuge opened in May 2003. Self-Retreat For experienced vipassana meditators, its For those interested in practicing If you have participated in a course at calm and peaceful environment establishes at the Forest Refuge, there is an the Retreat Center, you can schedule the sense of harmony most conducive to application process. Guidelines and an individual self-retreat between sustained, long-term personal retreat. an application form are available from courses. The length of stay may not Retreatants can practice for periods ranging the office or can be downloaded exceed the longest period of teacher-led from two weeks to stays of a year or more. from our website. retreat that you have done at the center.

Page 12 Fall • W i n t e r 2004 / 2005 During this time, you are expected to If you can afford the Sponsor level or In keeping with the tradition of dana, meditate in silence, observe the five higher, you help make it possible for (the Pali word for generosity) that precepts and maintain a continuity of others with lesser means to attend. stretches all the way back to the practice. The sliding scale fee is $48-63 Buddha, Retreat Center teachers per day, depending on your means. At the Retreat Center, registration at are not paid by IMS but offer the For self-retreats of up to six days the Mid and Low rates goes toward teachings freely. immediately before or after a specific room, board and some administrative group course, you can put the dates on expenses only. Forest Refuge fees at The direct service staff at both the your registration form. For self- these rates also include an honorarium Retreat Center and the Forest Refuge retreats of longer than six days, please for the teachers. provide service for a small stipend. call the office for an application form. At the end of each course, retreatants Any amount paid above the Low rate have the opportunity to offer a dona- Work Retreats is a tax-deductible donation. tion to the teachers, service staff and Work retreats at both our facilities also to IMS itself. provide an opportunity to explore the Scholarships integration of mindfulness practice with Our Scholarship funds assist those Since all fees cover less than 60% of our work activity. The daily schedule com- who are genuinely unable to afford the operating costs, we rely on your gener- bines periods of formal meditation and entire cost of a retreat. Each request is ous support to ensure the continuity of instruction with five hours of work – carefully assessed in terms of financial the teachings, and access to the retreat in silence – in either the Kitchen or need, previous history and funds experience for future generations. Housekeeping department. available. Due to limited resources, we cannot guarantee that every Media Visits Participation is limited to experienced application will result in a scholarship As the Dharma takes root in our society, meditators and requires a high degree award. Please be assured, however, that various media are expressing interest in of self-reliance. Since the work can be we will do our best to help you attend a reporting aspects of the work that we do physically demanding, a moderate level retreat with us. at IMS. This presents our community of physical fitness is required. with a valuable opportunity to introduce To apply for a scholarship at the Retreat the teachings to a wider audience. At the Retreat Center, the timing of Center, complete the registration form work retreats usually corresponds with on page 22 and include the appropriate While maintaining our primary the schedule of teacher-led courses. deposit. Check the relevant boxes commitment to supporting practice, At the Forest Refuge, a one-month regarding scholarship. You can also IMS may agree occasionally to requests commitment is ideal. apply online. from appropriate media to visit IMS for reporting. Before any such request is Special application forms need to Please submit your scholarship applica- granted, the requesting journalists will be completed; the only cost is a $25 tion – which can be either downloaded be carefully screened to assure as best nonrefundable processing fee. For a from our website or mailed to you – at we can, their ability to report fairly on work retreat at the Retreat Center, least six (6) weeks in advance of the our work with minimal interference. please contact the Human Resources retreat start date. (For the Three-Month Coordinator by calling (978) 355-4378, Retreat, we need to receive your appli- Notice of any media visit that occurs ext. 23 or emailing [email protected]. cation by June 1, 2005.) This allows during a course will be given. We will For the Forest Refuge, call (978) 355- for a process to review, award and advise retreatants as far in advance as is 2063 or email [email protected]. advise in a timely manner. practically possible. We will respect the You can also find out more online wishes of any yogi who prefers not to be at www.dharma.org/ims/jobs. For the Forest Refuge, complete the included and endeavor to work with the retreat application and indicate interest journalist(s) to minimize any impact on Fees in receiving scholarship information. our meditative environment and on Fees for 2005 are on a sliding scale A scholarship form will be sent to you, yogis. We appreciate your understand- basis. At the Retreat Center, there if your retreat application is approved. ing of our efforts to share the Dharma are four rates – Sponsor, Mid, Low in this way and welcome any comments, and Scholarship. The Forest Refuge Dana suggestions or questions you may have. has three rates – Sponsor, Mid The Buddha taught that practicing a T and Low, with some scholarship lifestyle of generosity is a necessary

support available. precondition for attaining wisdom. LOU ALBER

Fall • W i n t e r 2004 / 2005 Page 13 bringing health and education support to remote areas, monasteries Trudy Goodman has studied Zen and vipassana since 1974. IMS Core Faculty and nunneries in Burma. She is a co-founder and guiding teacher of the Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy. Teaching nationwide, she recently Ven. Ajahn Sucitto was ordained in Thailand in 1976. He has founded Insight LA and a family program Growing Spirit in LA. been closely associated with Ajahn Sumedho for the last 26 years, and Guy Armstrong has practiced insight meditation for over 20 years. is currently abbot of Cittaviveka Buddhist Monastery in Chithurst, Bhante Gunaratana has been a Buddhist monk for over 50 years, His training includes practice as a Buddhist monk in Thailand with Ajahn England. He has taught at IMS since 1989. and is the founder of Bhavana Society in rural West Virginia. He is the Buddhadasa and in Burma with Pa Auk Sayadaw. He began teaching in author of a number of books, including Mindfulness in Plain English 1984 and has led retreats in the US, Europe and Australia. Carol Wilson has been practicing meditation since 1971. She has and his autobiography Journey to Mindfulness. studied with a variety of teachers, including practice as a Buddhist nun Steve Armstrong has practiced mindfulness since 1975, and has led in Thailand. She has been teaching retreats, including the 3-month Ed Hauben is a long-term vipassana meditation practitioner and friend vipassana and metta retreats grounded in the Buddha’s understanding course, at IMS and around the world since 1986. of IMS. He has served on the IMS board and has assisted with the of mind since 1990. A co-founding director and guiding teacher of Family and Teen retreats for the past 25 years. Ho’omalamalama, a Dhamma sanctuary and hermitage on Maui, he offers the Dhamma internationally. Visiting Faculty Sarah Hegarty, originally from Ireland, has spent the last five years traveling to teach and study yoga internationally. Her focus is to com- Ruth Denison studied in Burma in the early 1960s with the medita- plement vipassana practice by bringing awareness to the breath, quiet tion master Sayagi U Ba Khin. She has been teaching since 1973 and Fred von Allmen has studied and practiced under Tibetan and to the mind and balance to the body’s energy. is founder of Dhamma Dena, a desert retreat center in Joshua Tree, CA, Theravada teachers since 1970 in Asia, Europe and the US. He has and The Center for Buddhism in the West in Germany. taught retreats worldwide for 20 years. The author of several Buddhist Catherine McGee has practiced insight meditation under the guid- books in German, he is also the co-founder of the Meditation Center ance of senior Dharma teachers in Asia and the West. She has been Sarah Doering has practiced vipassana meditation since 1981. Beatenberg in the Swiss Alps. teaching since 1997 both at Gaia House and internationally. She is also She has taught at both CIMC and the IMS Retreat Center, and is a student of the Diamond Approach of A.H. Almaas. currently a member of the Forest Refuge Teacher Council. Rachel Bagby, a long-time meditator, is a vocal artist, composer, activist and poet. She is the author of Divine Daughters: Liberating the Ven. Ayya Medhanandi, a Canadian now based in New Zealand, Christina Feldman is a co-founder of Gaia House in England and an Power and Passion of Women’s Voices. began monastic life in 1987 in Burma. She first took precepts with IMS senior teacher. Following training in the Theravada and Mahayana Sayadaw U Pandita and later trained under Ajahn Sumedho at Buddhist traditions, she has been teaching meditation since 1976 and Marvin Belzer has practiced vipassana since 1982, studying primarily Amaravati Buddhist Monastery. has an ongoing commitment to the long-term retreat program at Gaia with Sayadaw U Pandita since 1986. He teaches philosophy at Bowling House. Her books include Woman Awake! and more recently Silence Green University. Franz Moeckl has practiced vipassana since 1985, both in the West and The Buddhist Path to Simplicity. and as a monk in the East. He has studied and practiced Tai Chi and Bhante Bodhidhamma is the teacher-in-residence at Gaia House in Qigong for 25 years and now teaches in the US, Europe and Asia. Joseph Goldstein is a co-founder and guiding teacher of IMS’s England. Since 1978, he has practiced in the Zen and Theravada tradi- Retreat Center and Forest Refuge programs. He has been teaching tions. In l986 he ordained, subsequently spending eight years at a Phillip Moffitt began studying vipassana meditation in 1983 and vipassana and metta retreats worldwide since 1974 and in 1989 helped monastery in Sri Lanka, returning to the UK to teach in 1998. is a member of the Spirit Rock Teacher Council. He writes the Dharma establish BCBS. He is the author of One Dharma, The Experience of Wisdom column for Yoga Journal, is the co-author of The Power to Heal Insight and Insight Meditation. Rebecca Bradshaw has been practicing vipassana meditation since and the founder of the Life Balance Institute. 1983 and teaching since 1993. She is a guiding teacher of the Insight Myoshin Kelley has been practicing meditation since 1975, Meditation Center of Northampton, MA and works as a Spanish- Annie Nugent has practiced in the Theravada and Tibetan traditions working with a number of teachers in various traditions. Her own speaking psychotherapist. since 1979. She was an IMS resident teacher from 1999-2003. Her teaching reflects a strong influence from Burmese masters with an teaching style aims to reveal how our lives are opportunities for a clear emphasis on simplicity and lovingkindness. She currently teaches at Russell Brown, a long-time meditator in the Theravada and understanding of the Truth. the Forest Refuge. Vajrayana traditions, has been a practicing psychiatrist for 23 years. Since 1998, he has worked primarily in correctional facilities in NM. Susan O’Brien has been practicing vipassana meditation since Michael Liebenson Grady has been practicing vipassana since 1973. 1980 and has studied with a variety of Asian and western teachers. He is a guiding teacher at CIMC. Eugene Cash is the founding teacher of the Insight Meditation She began teaching in 1996 and coordinates the Insight Meditation Community of San Francisco. He is a Spirit Rock teacher and leads correspondence course. Narayan Liebenson Grady is a guiding teacher at CIMC where she retreats internationally. He is also a teacher of the Diamond Approach has taught since 1985. She is the author of When Singing, Just Sing: with A. H. Almaas. Douglas Phillips has trained in Buddhist meditation since 1978, Life As Meditation. and currently teaches vipassana in the New England area. He is also a Pat Coffey has practiced and studied meditation for over 25 years. clinical psychologist with a private practice in Newton, MA. Kamala Masters began practicing in 1975. Under the guidance of He is an IMS Board Member and a graduate of Spirit Rock’s Community Anagarika Munindra and Sayadaw U Pandita she has been trained in Dharma Leaders program. Residing in Charlottesville, VA, he leads Yanai Postelnik has practiced and studied insight meditation in Asia vipassana and metta meditations. She is co-founder of the Vipassana several sitting groups in the area and teaches retreats in Eastern states. and the West and has been teaching worldwide since 1992. He was IMS Metta Foundation on Maui and is currently developing resident teacher 1995-96. Originally from New Zealand, he lives in Ho’omalamalama, a sanctuary-hermitage for long-term practice. Mark Coleman has been teaching vipassana retreats since 1997, Devon, England and is a member of the Gaia House Teacher Council. following extensive training over the last 20 years in several Buddhist Michele McDonald has practiced vipassana meditation since 1975 traditions. He also leads Wilderness Meditation courses on the West Sharda Rogell has been teaching in the Theravada tradition world- and has been teaching at IMS and worldwide since 1982. She has a coast and has a private practice in counseling. wide since 1985, bringing a strong emphasis to awakening heartful- deep interest in preserving the ancient teachings and in finding ways of ness. She is on the Teacher Council at Spirit Rock, and a student of A.H. expression that make them more accessible and authentic in our time. Sally Clough began practicing vipassana meditation in India in 1981. Almaas’ Diamond Approach. Since moving to the Bay Area in 1988, she has served at Spirit Rock in Larry Rosenberg practiced Zen in Korea and Japan before coming to a number of roles. She began teaching in 1996, and is one of the Marcia Rose has practiced Buddhist meditation since 1970. She is vipassana. He is a guiding teacher of CIMC and the author of Living in guiding teachers of Spirit Rock’s Dedicated Practitioner Program. co-founder and the guiding teacher in Taos, NM of The Mountain the Light of Death and Breath By Breath. Hermitage and Taos Mountain Sangha. She was IMS resident teacher Matthew Daniell has been practicing Buddhist meditation (vipassana from 1991-95 and currently teaches in the US and internationally. Sharon Salzberg, a co-founder of IMS and BCBS, has practiced and Zen) and yoga since 1984. He teaches ‘mindfulness yoga’, Buddhist meditation since 1971 and has been teaching worldwide primarily based on the Viniyoga tradition of T.K.V. Desikachar, and Gina Sharpe has studied and practiced Buddhism for over 30 years, since 1974. She is a guiding teacher of IMS and author of Faith, also holds teaching certificates in the Kripalu and Sivananda lineages. across several traditions. She is a graduate of the first Spirit Rock Lovingkindness and A Heart As Wide As the World. Community Dharma Leaders Program, and a co-founder of New York Chas DiCapua has practiced Zen and vipassana since 1989 and is Insight. She has taught meditation since 1994. Rodney Smith has been teaching insight meditation since 1984. He is currently an IMS Resident Teacher. He has worked with youth and a former Buddhist monk and worked in hospice care for 16 years. He is meditation since 1998 and has a particular interest in combining Woods Shoemaker has been practicing Zen and vipassana since the author of Lessons From the Dying and is currently the founding and meditation with outdoor wilderness experiences. 1974, and currently teaches vipassana meditation. guiding teacher for the Seattle Insight Meditation Society. Patricia Genoud-Feldman has been practicing Buddhist meditation Tempel Smith has practiced vipassana meditation since 1989 includ- Steven Smith has practiced in the Mahasi Sayadaw lineage for (vipassana and Dzogchen) in Asia and the West since 1984 and teach- ing a year ordained in Burma. He works for the Buddhist Peace over 30 years. He is a cofounder of Vipassana Hawai’i and the Hawai’i ing vipassana internationally since 1997. She is co-founder of the Fellowship and is the co-founder of BASE House in San Francisco. Insight Meditation Center. He also founded the MettaDana Project, Meditation Center Vimalakirti in Geneva, Switzerland.

Page 14 Fall • W i n t e r 2004 / 2005 2005 Forest Refuge Teaching Schedule

Application Information Jan 1 - Jan 10 Sarah Doering & Marcia Rose

For those interested in practicing Jan 11 - Feb 28 Myoshin Kelley & Marcia Rose at the Forest Refuge, there is an (Includes a Vipassana Intensive, Feb 1- Feb 14) application process. Guidelines and an application form are Mar 1 - Mar 31 Joseph Goldstein & Myoshin Kelley available from our office or can be downloaded from Apr 1 - Apr 30 Joseph Goldstein & Michele McDonald www.dharma.org. May 1 - May 7 Joseph Goldstein & Annie Nugent If there is no accommodation available at the time you wish to May 8 - May 14 Annie Nugent come, we encourage you to keep your application in process. May 15 - Jun 30 Sayadaw U Pandita You may like to change your Lottery course. Applications due by December 1, 2004 dates, or we can put you on a waitlist, if your application is Jul 1 - Jul 31 Patricia Genoud-Feldman & Myoshin Kelley approved. There are often cancellations from those already Aug 1 - Aug 31 Sayadaw U Lakkhana & Steven Smith confirmed, and spaces open up. You can also check our website Sep 1 - Oct 31 Bhante Bodhidhamma & Myoshin Kelley (click on IMS, and then the Forest Refuge) where we post Nov 1 - Nov 30 Sharda Rogell & Myoshin Kelley updates about space availability. T Dec 1 - Dec 31 Yanai Postelnik & Myoshin Kelley Please read pages 12-13 for LOU ALBER general IMS retreat and payment information. Joseph Goldstein is the Forest Refuge Guiding Teacher.

The teaching schedule may change without notice. It is our intention Fees for 2005 are outlined that retreatants will have the opportunity to practice with a variety in the box to the right. Payment of experienced and well qualified vipassana teachers. is due, once your application has been approved, and is accepted by mail, phone or in person. Please make check or money LENGTH OF STAY SLIDING SCALE FEES order payable to IMS, or include High Mid Low Visa or MasterCard information. Two weeks $980 $910 $840 First month (30 days) $1,800 $1,650 $1,500 For scholarship information Second month (31-60 days) $1,740 $1,590 $1,440 please see page 13. Third month (61-90 days) $1,650 $1,500 $1,350 Long-term daily rate (after 90 days) $35 $30 $25

Fall • W i n t e r 2004 / 2005 Page 15

2005 Retreat Center Schedule

Dates Length Course Title Teachers

Jan 28-Feb 4 7 days Metta Retreat* Sharon Salzberg, Susan O’Brien & Mark Coleman Feb 4-Feb 13 9 days Vipassana Retreat* Joseph Goldstein, Sharon Salzberg, Susan O’Brien & Mark Coleman Jan 28-Feb 13 16 days Metta & Vipassana Retreat* As above *Lottery courses. Registration due by Dec. 27, 2004 Feb 18-Feb 22 4 days Men’s Retreat Joseph Goldstein, Phillip Moffitt & Pat Coffey Feb 26-Mar 5 7 days Vipassana Retreat Larry Rosenberg & Michael Liebenson Grady Mar 13-Mar 20 7 days Women’s Retreat Christina Feldman & Narayan Liebenson Grady Mar 25-Apr 3 9 days Vipassana Retreat Carol Wilson, Guy Armstrong & Rodney Smith Apr 15-Apr 17 2 days A Weekend for New Students Narayan & Michael Liebenson Grady Apr 22-May 1 9 days Monastic Retreat Ajahn Sucitto, Ayya Medhanandi & Others May 6-May 15 9 days Vipassana Retreat Yanai Postelnik, Sharda Rogell, Myoshin Kelley & Eugene Cash Awakening the Heart May 20-May 29 9 days Vipassana & Yoga Retreat Steven Smith & Susan O’Brien with Sarah Hegarty Jun 3-Jun 10 7 days Metta Retreat Michele McDonald, Steven Smith, Rebecca Bradshaw & Patricia Genoud-Feldman with Franz Moeckl (Qigong) Jun 10-Jun 19 9 days Vipassana Retreat Michele McDonald, Steven Smith, Susan O’Brien & Patricia Genoud-Feldman with Franz Moeckl (Qigong) Jun 3-Jun 19 16 days Metta & Vipassana Retreat As above Jun 24-Jul 1 7 days Vipassana & Viniyoga Retreat Larry Rosenberg with Woods Shoemaker, Doug Phillips & Matthew Daniell Jul 2-Jul 6 4 days Teen Retreat Rebecca Bradshaw with Ed Hauben, Tempel Smith & Chas DiCapua Jul 9-Jul 17 8 days Vipassana Retreat Christina Feldman, Fred von Allmen & Yanai Postelnik Jul 22-Jul 27 5 days Family Retreat* Yanai Postelnik, Trudy Goodman & Catherine McGee *Lottery course. Registration due by February 11, 2005 Jul 29-Aug 3 5 days People of Color Retreat** Joseph Goldstein, Gina Sharpe, Rachel Bagby & Russell Brown Aug 12-Aug 21 9 days Vipassana Retreat Narayan & Michael Liebenson Grady Aug 22-Aug 28 6 days Vipassana Retreat for Ages 18-32 Michele McDonald, Rebecca Bradshaw & Marvin Belzer Sep 2-Sep 5 3 days Labor Day Weekend Ruth Denison Sep 5-Sep 11 6 days Vipassana Retreat Ruth Denison Sep 2-Sep 11 9 days Vipassana Retreat Ruth Denison Sep 16-Sep 18 2 days Dana Weekend Bhante Gunaratana Sep 23-Dec 16 84 days Three-Month Retreat* Joseph Goldstein Sep 23-Nov 4 42 days Part 1* Steven Smith, Michele McDonald, Rebecca Bradshaw & Patricia Genoud-Feldman Nov 4-Dec 16 42 days Part 2* Steve Armstrong, Kamala Masters, Guy Armstrong & Sally Clough *Lottery courses. Registration due by Jan. 31, 2005 Dec 28-Jan 6, 2006 9 days New Year’s Retreat Rodney Smith, Yanai Postelnik & Others

Please see the following pages for retreat descriptions and registration information. t If you would like to pay for your retreat at the scholarship rate, please refer to page 13 for application information. ** Thanks to a generous donation, we can offer reduced rates for the People of Color Retreat. No one will be turned away due to a lack of funds.

Page 16 Fall • W i n t e r 2004 / 2005

INSIGHT

Code Deposit Sliding Scale Fees Sponsor Mid Low Scholarshipt Support the SS $175 $455 $405 $350 $210 Scholarship Fund JS $175 $585 $520 $450 $270

SJ3 $175 $1,040 $920 $800 $480 IMS is committed to offering scholarship assistance to those MEN $125 $300 $270 $240 $120 who cannot afford the entire LR1 $175 $455 $405 $350 $210 cost of a meditation retreat. WOM $175 $455 $405 $350 $210 Your generous donations have CW $175 $585 $520 $450 $270 provided funding for many NSW $100 $180 $165 $150 $60 individuals seeking to participate in our programs. MR Donation $585 $520 Donation Donation

AH $175 $585 $520 $450 $270 Help someone else to sit. You may designate that your donation STS $175 $585 $520 $450 $270 be directed to one or more of the SM1 $175 $455 $405 $350 $210 following specialized scholarship areas: General, People of Color, SM2 $175 $585 $520 $450 $270 Youth Outreach (for those aged 18-25), Danic (for those in SM3 $175 $1,040 $920 $800 $480 pain), the Forest Refuge or the LR2 $175 $455 $405 $350 $210 Retreat Center. TR $240 $300 $270 $240 $120 Contributions can be sent to: CF $175 $520 $460 $400 $240 IMS FAM Adult: $175 $450 $410 $375 $150 Attn: Donations Child: $240 $200 $165 $150 1230 Pleasant St. POC Donation $350 $275 Donation Donation Barre, MA 01005, USA NLG $175 $585 $520 $450 $270 To donate online, visit our website MM Donation $390 $345 Donation Donation www.dharma.org and click on RD1 $125 $240 $220 $195 $90 Ways to Support IMS RD2 $175 $390 $345 $300 $180 RD3 $175 $585 $520 $450 $270 DANA Donation 3MO $750 $5,040 $4,410 $3,780 $2,520 PT1 $375 $2,520 $2,205 $1,890 $1,260 PT2 $375 $2,520 $2,205 $1,890 $1,260

NY $175 $585 $520 $450 $270

Fall • W i n t e r 2004 / 2005 Page 17 LIBBY VIGEON

a vipassana retreat as well as those who are brand new to vipassana meditation. A continuity of mindful- ness will be emphasized in a supportive and silent atmosphere. Sitting and walking periods will be shorter than the standard retreat format at IMS and the schedule will also include talks and periods of discussion.

Monastic Retreat Western nuns and monks from the Retreat Center These practices lead to the develop- Thai Buddhist monastic tradition teach Course Descriptions ment of concentration, fearlessness, a vipassana retreat each year at the happiness and a greater ability to love. center. The 2005 course will focus on Vipassana mindfulness of breathing. Retreatants Insight Meditation (vipassana in Men’s Retreat will be asked to observe the eight Pali, the language of the original For over 2,500 years men have come monastic precepts (which include Buddhist teachings) is the simple and together to practice the Buddha’s abstaining from eating after noon each direct practice of moment-to-moment teachings. As a way of continuing this day) and to participate fully in the mindfulness. Through careful and tradition, IMS offers a vipassana daily routine of sitting, standing and sustained observation, we experience course for men, complementing the walking meditation. Each day, group for ourselves the ever-changing flow long-established Women’s Retreat. practice will begin with an offering of of the mind/body process. This aware- The traditional format of sitting and flowers, light (in the form of candles) ness leads us to accept more fully the walking meditation, group interviews and fragrance (incense), as well as pleasure and pain, fear and joy, sadness and evening Dharma talks helps foster chanting to the Triple Gem. and happiness that life inevitably a powerful and encouraging sense of brings. As insight deepens, we community. This retreat is designed Awakening the Heart – develop greater equanimity and peace to strengthen the practice of men A Vipassana Retreat in the face of change, and wisdom and experienced in meditation and be an The Buddha’s path of awareness and compassion increasingly become the introduction for those new to the freedom is an invitation to discover guiding principles of our lives. practice. Beginners are welcome. inner peace and a compassionate heart in the very midst of our human reality. The Buddha first taught vipassana Women’s Retreat In this retreat we will cultivate a mind- over 2,500 years ago. The various In the classical context of silence and ful presence which embraces life and methods of this practice have been well sustained meditation practice, women enables us to see things as they are. preserved in the Theravada tradition of have gathered together on this annual We will emphasize embodiment and Buddhism, and the retreats at IMS are retreat for more than twenty years, acceptance as the basis for genuine all rooted in this ancient and creating a powerful sense of communi- intimacy with our direct experience. well-mapped path to awakening. ty in which our capacity for deepening The practice of meditation in sitting, in wisdom and compassion is supported. standing, walking and lying postures Metta There are daily talks, instructions, will be supported by Dharma talks, Metta is the Pali word for friendship lovingkindness practice and meetings instructions, lovingkindness practice or lovingkindness. It is taught as a with the teachers. Over the decades, and regular meetings with the teachers. meditation that cultivates our natural this course has played a seminal role in capacity for an open and loving heart. honoring the long tradition of women Vipassana & Yoga Retreat With its roots in practices said to be in the meditative life. The teachings throughout this course taught by the Buddha himself, metta are based on those of the eminent is traditionally offered along with medi- A Weekend for New Students Burmese nun Daw Yazana and the tations that enrich compassion, joy in This weekend is designed for Mahasi meditation masters Sayadaw the happiness of others and equanimity. practitioners who have never attended U Pandita and the late Shwe Oo Min

Page 18 Fall • W i n t e r 2004 / 2005 INSIGHT

Sayadaw. They will focus on the culti- Insight Meditation Retreat Due to the popularity of this retreat and vation of a relaxed and open awareness Insight meditation is a path of our wish to support continuity for regulars of awareness itself. Twice-daily option- awakening, and a retreat is an invita- as well as accessibility for new participants, al yoga sessions will be offered to tion to nurture our capacity for the all applications received by February 11, ground and energize the body and vastness of heart and mind that is 2005 will be processed as follows: half of mind, complementing and integrating possible for each of us. Attending to available spaces will be given to families the deepening mindfulness and insight. our body, mind, heart and each unique who have attended three out of the past five moment with a mindful and compas- years, or two out of the last three years, by Whether experienced or new to sionate attention, we walk an ancient lottery from all qualifying registrations. either vipassana or yoga, everyone is path that leads to the end of sorrow Families who have registered for the last welcome. Please bring a yoga mat. and the emergence of joy, serenity and two years without getting a place are freedom. Daily instructions, Dharma automatically confirmed. The balance of Vipassana & Viniyoga Retreat talks, lovingkindness meditations as places will be drawn by lottery from all The particular form of vipassana well as regular meetings with the remaining registrations. meditation emphasized during this teachers are offered during the course. retreat is Anapana Sati, where conscious breathing is used to develop Family Retreat both calm and liberating insight. This course is an invitation to honor Viniyoga in the tradition of TKV and nurture the spirituality of family Desikachar is a form of training that life. Through formal meditation prac- emphasizes the coordination of mindful tice, discussions, family meditations breathing with all bodily movement, and Dharma teachings, we will explore making the breath sensations more what it means to realize a deep wisdom vivid and in general preparing the and compassion that is not separate body for extended periods of sitting from our lives and relationships, and meditation. The yogic postures will yet not bound by them. emphasize mindfulness, so that this training is fully compatible with vipas- A Dharma program for children over sana meditation practice. There will be 2 years old is included; it is staffed two optional periods of viniyoga each by volunteers who coordinate age- day. Individual needs will be honored; appropriate activities. A parent or beginners to vipassana and yoga are friend needs to stay with any child welcome. Please bring a yoga mat. under 2 years old at all times.

Teen Retreat Each family unit pays an additional This retreat is specifically for teens fee for the children’s Dharma aged 14-19. It offers beginning medita- program. This is on a sliding scale tion instruction, half-hour sitting and basis, ranging from $50 to $150. walking periods, discussion groups, You MUST specify name, full date meditative arts and free time. The aim of birth and gender of all children is to allow young adults to develop and on your registration. value their natural spirituality within a supportive environment. Extensive supervision is provided.

Though Michele McDonald will not be present during this retreat, she is the supervising senior teacher and her valu- ÉOWYN AHLSTROM able input will help guide the program.

Fall • W i n t e r 2004 / 2005 Page 19 New York Insight

New York Insight (NYI) was People of Color Retreat Dana Weekend founded as a nonprofit center This retreat provides an in-depth This course is offered by IMS to for the practice of mindful experience of insight meditation, affirm the spirit and practice of fostering support and understanding generosity. There is no fixed fee. awareness (vipassana or insight among people of color who find Participants are asked to offer meditation). NYI provides a nourishment and inspiration in this whatever contribution fits their means. place where all are welcome to practice. It is also an introduction to begin or deepen meditation the Buddha’s teachings on mindful Three-Month Retreat practice based on the liberation awareness for those without previous The annual three-month course is a teachings of the Buddha. meditation experience. Beginners are special time for practice. Because of Programs include evenings with encouraged to attend. its extended length and the continuity renowned meditation teachers, of guidance, it is a rare opportunity to Thanks to a generous donation, we deepen the powers of concentration, ongoing classes, daylong can offer reduced rates for this wisdom and compassion. The teaching retreats and weekend courses course (see page 16). No one will be is in the style of Mahasi Sayadaw, for the integration of meditation turned away due to lack of funds; we refining the skillful means of mental teachings in daily life. will accept whatever you can afford noting, slow movement and precise, The events, except where noted, to contribute. open awareness. are suitable for beginning as well as experienced meditators. Vipassana Retreat Prerequisite is three retreats of a NYI welcomes the participation for Ages 18-32 week or more in duration with a of all interested people. This retreat specifically addresses the recognized vipassana teacher, or practice needs of new and experienced special permission. This experience, meditators in the challenging years of including teachers’ names, as well as NYI has recently opened its early adulthood. The format includes dates and length of retreats must be new center in central Chelsea. daily meditation instruction, group and documented on the registration form. Spacious, filled with light and individual interviews as well as oppor- peaceful, it is located at tunities for questions and discussion. Special cancellation fees and deadlines 28 W 27th St, 10th Floor apply for this retreat. 3MO and Part 1: up (between 6th Ave & Broadway), Retreats with Ruth Denison to March 31, $50; from April 1 to May 15, New York, NY 10001. The style of teaching of these $150; after May 15, $350 for 3MO, and $250 for Part 1. Part 2: up to May 15, $50; Please check our website retreats is unique in the IMS schedule. In addition to traditional sittings and from May 16 to June 30, $150; after www.nyimc.org for event Dharma talks, Ruth leads her students June 30, $250. Please note that these descriptions and registration into the phenomenology of sound amounts will apply even if you wish information, or call and movement, which then become to move from any part of the course (212) 213-4802. the subjects of insight and wisdom. to another. Individual and group-as-a-whole activities such as chanting, dance New Year’s Retreat and playful celebration, done with The New Year is an opportunity respectful mindfulness, become vehi- for reflection and intention. Before cles for vipassana attention and awak- deciding the direction our life ening. This is accomplished with should head towards, it is helpful Ruth’s ever-present, skillful support. to thoroughly investigate ourselves as we are now. This vipassana retreat Participants can help Ruth celebrate will gently explore the terrain of our her 83rd birthday during this time. lives with compassion and wisdom.

Page 20 Fall • W i n t e r 2004 / 2005

Retreat Center Registration Information

Registrations • IMS strives to provide a safe, • Please pay by check, credit card or • Are accepted online, by mail, phone peaceful and efficient environment money order in US funds, drawn on a or in person. For security reasons, we for meditators. It is with regret that US or Canadian bank. We cannot do not accept registration by email. we find, at times, the need to turn accept foreign cash or bank drafts. Incomplete applications, including some one away. Please know that we • If possible, please pay the entire those without sufficient deposit, will take great care in such situations – retreat cost on registering; this helps be returned. the discernment process is thorough our efficiency. • Are processed by date received and always with the intention to • Make check or money order payable or by lottery. protect the majority of those who to IMS, or include Visa or MasterCard • If registering online, an email is sent practice here. on the form. immediately acknowledging receipt of your application. Wait List Cancellation • Confirmation is mailed or emailed as • If a course is full, you will be placed • If you need to cancel your registra- soon as your registration has been on a wait list and notified if an opening tion, please contact us as soon as processed. Please allow up to two occurs. If you do not get into a course, possible. Fees are: $25 if you cancel weeks for this. your deposit will be refunded. six or more weeks before a course • All retreatants are expected to begins; $100 four to six weeks before; participate in the entire course. Prior Payments and the full deposit less than four approval of both the teacher and the • Retreat fees and deposits are listed weeks before. office is required for those wishing to beside each course on the schedule • The cancellation policy for the Three- arrive late or leave early. Once a (see page 16). Pricing is on a sliding Month Retreat is more stringent. retreat is in process, such movement scale basis – this allows you to pay (Please see page 20 for information.) is disruptive to others and places an according to your means. • Cancellation fees apply if you are additional burden on other retreatants Any amount paid above the Low confirmed into a course off of the wait with regard to work periods. Your rate is a tax-deductible donation. list and do not accept. So please be room cannot be guaranteed if you • The full deposit is required even if sure to notify us immediately if you arrive late; the full course fee will be you are applying for a scholarship, decide to cancel. charged regardless of length of stay. except for those applying through • Please contact the office if you are the Youth Outreach Program, in • All cancellation fees support chemically sensitive. which case a $50 deposit is accepted. the Scholarship Fund.

In keeping with this tradition, particular day or meal. The date chosen we welcome your donation to cover for this often celebrates a birthday, Meal Dana the costs of IMS meals – you have honors someone who has died (Generosity) the choice of funding an individual meal or commemorates another of life’s many or group of meals, at both our programs, milestones. If you do not specify a date, or just at one, as outlined below: we can advise you in advance when your donation will be used, allowing you to Retreat Forest take joy in knowing when you are The tradition of IMS Center Refuge encouraging the practice and service of the meditators, teachers and staff. donating meals to Breakfast $120 $80 $40 Lunch $180 $115 $65 spiritual practitioners Tea $50 $35 $15 To receive additional information or to Entire Day $350 $230 $120 request that a Meal Dana form be sent has flourished in Asia to you, please contact the IMS Kitchen since the time of If you, or your group of friends and Manager – call (978) 355-2063, ext. 13 fellow practitioners would like to offer or email [email protected]. If you the Buddha. Meal Dana, we will acknowledge your prefer to submit the form and make your gift – if you wish – by inscribing your donation online, visit www.dharma.org name(s) on the menu board for a and click on Ways to Support IMS.

Fall • W i n t e r 2004 / 2005 Page 21 Page 22 oa mutt hreCei ad$______CardholderSignature______Total $______amounttochargeCreditCard May weaddyouremail May weaddyour 3-Digit V ______Date Expiry /______Card Credit on Name Credit Card# Exact ❑ Payment Infor I haveadded$______asadonationtoIMS. I wishtoapplyforascholarship: ______Retr ______Please indicateanyphysicaldisabilitiesorspecialneedstoassistinassigningyourroom.______M ______Email Day Phone______Evening Check ______Zip______City ______State______Country Addr SlidingScaleAmountYou Will Pay$____ Name ______Course Code______Visit Dates:From______To ______Deposit$______Or, onlineatwww.dharma.org. youmayprefertoregister Mail toIMS,1230PleasantSt.,Barre,MA01005,USA,orcall(978)355-4378. If youar PLEASE COMPLETEINFULLANDPRINTCLEARL Retreat CenterRegistrationForm ❑ My checkisenclosedfor$______eat Experience(forPT1,PT2,3MO).Pleaselistteachernames,datesandlocations ess ______Have youbeentoIMSbefore?YES ess ______F ❑ erification Code(last3digitsofthesequenceonback Cr ❑ e registering for more than one course, photocopy this form andsendaseparateformforeachretreat. e registeringformorethanonecourse,photocopythisform if newaddress.OldAddress______Y ear ofBir mation str th ______Doyousmoke? eet address toouremailing list? address toourmailing list? I have downloaded the form already I havedownloadedtheform Please sendmeanapplicationform ______Y ❑ ❑ . Do yousnor edit Car For sharingwithsimilaror For IMSuseonly?YES YES For sharingwithsimilarorganizations? For IMSuseonly?YES d) e? _____Canyouofferaride?YES ❑ ❑ (attach extrapaperifnecessary). ❑ ❑ ganizations? NO NO ❑ ❑ Fall YES ❑ • 2004/2005 r e t n i W ❑ ❑ ❑ NO ______NO NO NO ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ✁ 149 Lockwood Road Barre, MA 01005 Phone: (978) 355-2347 Barre Center for Buddhist Studies Fax: (978) 355-2798 Email: [email protected] ...for the integration of scholarly understanding and meditative insight... Website: www.dharma.org

The Barre Center for Buddhist Studies (BCBS) offers a variety of study and research opportunities: lectures, classes, workshops, retreats and independent study programs. While rooted in the classical Buddhist tradition, the BCBS mission calls for the study of all different schools of Buddhism and discussions with other traditions. The emphasis is on the interrelationship between study and practice, and on exploring the relevance of classical teachings to contemporary life.

BCBS Schedule for 2004/2005 Oct 29-31 (Weekend) Chip Hartranft & Patanjali & Buddha: Andrew Olendzki Awakening to the Yoga Sutras Nov 6 (Saturday) Mu Soeng Heart Sutra: Form and Emptiness Nov 7 (Sunday 1- 5pm) Sharon Salzberg The Power of a Loving Heart: Metta Meditation Nov 19-21 (Weekend) Christina Feldman Fear, Contraction and Release Nov 28-Dec 3 (5 days) Andrew Olendzki Essentials of Buddhist Psychology Dec 4-11 (7 days) Andrew Olendzki & Bhavana: Contentment Gloria Taraniya Ambrosia Insight Journal Jan 7-9 (Weekend) Andrew Olendzki & Cognitive Science and the Rajesh Kasturirangan Buddhist Understanding of Mind Jan 14-16 (Weekend) IMP Faculty Meditation for Psychotherapists The Insight Journal is a free BCBS publication, containing articles of Jan 28-30 (Weekend) Christopher Queen Mindfulness and Social Change lasting interest on the integration Feb 4-6 (Weekend) Ajahn Thanissaro The Riddle of Desire of scholarly understanding with Feb 12-19 (7 days) Andrew Olendzki & Bhavana: The Three Characteristics meditative insight. Gloria Taraniya Ambrosia Feb 25-27 (Weekend) Rev. Issho Fujita Inquiry into Zazen: Articles in the Reading Dogen Spring 2004 issue include: March 6-11 (5 days) Paul Fulton & Others Clinical Applications of Mindfulness Teacher interview with Trudy Goodman March 18-20 (Weekend) Jason Siff Understanding the Meditative Process Fear, Pain and Trust March 24-27 (3 days) Gregory Kramer Insight Dialogue by Joseph Goldstein April 1-10 (9 days) Leigh Brasington Satipatthana and Jhana The Fourth Foundation of Mindfulness April 15-17 (Weekend) Daeja Napier Patience: Emptying the Ocean by Andrew Olendzki April 22-24 (Weekend) Mu Soeng The Great Way is Not Difficult All About Change by Thanissaro Bhikkhu April 29-May 1 (Weekend) Sensei Pat Enkyo O’Hara Dogen: Being-Time May 7-14 (7 days) Andrew Olendzki & Bhavana: Dependent Origination Teaching Meditation to Children Gloria Taraniya Ambrosia by Sumi Loundon May 22-27 (5 days) Andrew Olendzki & Others Essentials of Buddhist Psychology …and more. June 19-24 (5 days) Mu Soeng Emptiness: Still Point of the Turning World

If you’d like a copy of this and July 8-10 (Weekend) Mu Soeng Buddhist Models of Enlightenment future issues, please call or email us. July 15-17 (Weekend) Taitetsu Unno & Mark Unno Shin Buddhism The Fall 2004 issue of Insight Journal July 21-24 (3 days) IMP faculty Meditation for Psychotherapists will be published November 1. Aug 13-20 (7 days) Charles Genoud Bhavana: Vimalakirti Sutra Full course descriptions are at www.dharma.org and in the BCBS program catalog.

Fall • W i n t e r 2004 / 2005 Page 23 Non-profit Org. U.S. Postage INSIGHT NEWSLETTER PAID Insight Meditation Society Permit No.7 1230 Pleasant St. Ashland, MA Barre, MA 01005

A stipend or salaried position at IMS presents an opportunity to integrate work and practice in a supportive environment. It is a valuable way to be of service, and to learn about yourself in relationship to others. A diverse benefits package is offered. Stipend Staff Positions: Kitchen • Front Office • Maintenance • Housekeeping Salaried Staff Positions: Executive Assistant • IT Technical Professional Public Awareness Coordinator (For complete descriptions see www.dharma.org/ims/jobs) Please contact: Human Resources Coordinator Phone: (978) 355-4378 ext.23 Email: [email protected] PHOTOS: ÉOWYN AHLSTROM, CHRISTINE PICHLKOSTNER