INSIGHT

NEWSLETTER

FALL WINTER 2002/2003 Welcome Welcome to the first issue of the newly formatted Insight Newsletter. It contains IMS 2003 Schedules: schedules and all necessary course information for the Insight Society’s The Center two facilities – the Retreat Center and The Forest – as well as an overview of the Barre Center for . The Forest Refuge

In addition to bringing you the latest information about our programs, this BCBS 2002/2003 newsletter is intended to keep you informed of current developments at IMS - Course Schedule Outline what is happening, where we are going and what you can expect in the future. We hope you enjoy our new look. Any feedback you may have is appreciated. Teacher Interview

May all beings be happy. IMS News and Developments Edwin Kelley Executive Director, IMS

In this Issue

Interview with ...... 2 News Worth Noting – IMS Developments ...... 4 An Expression of Gratitude - A Donor’s Story ...... 7 Forest Refuge Update and 2003 Teacher Schedule ...... 8 The Retreat Center - 2003 Schedule and Information ...... 10 BCBS Information and 2002/2003 Course Schedule ...... 16 Book Reviews ...... 18 - Faith: Trusting Your Own Deepest Experience - Knee Deep in Grace: The Extraordinary Life and Teaching of

THE NEWSLETTER OF THE INSIGHT MEDITATION SOCIETY MARCIA LIPPMAN

What is Faith? An Interview with Sharon Salzberg

Sharon Salzberg, IMS co-founder and guiding teacher, talks with Insight Newsletter about her latest book Faith: Trusting Your Own Deepest Experience. A review of the book is on page 18.

Sharon, from a Buddhist again, to love again. Even in times of perspective, what does the immense , it is faith that helps word ‘faith’ mean? Why is us to relate to the present moment in it important? such a way that we can go on, we can move forward, instead of becoming lost In , the language of the original in resignation or despair. The capacity , the word usually trans- for this type of faith is inherent in every lated as faith is saddha, which literally human being. We might not recognize means “to place the heart upon.” To it, or know how to nurture it, but we have faith is to offer one’s heart. In Pali can learn to do both. faith is a verb, an action, as it is also in Latin and Hebrew. It is not a singular How can we practice faith - INSIGHT state that we either have or don’t have, can we learn to incline the NEWSLETTER but is something that we do. mind towards its possibilities? We “faithe.” What is the relationship A twice-yearly publication of the Insight between faith and wisdom? Meditation Society, a tax-exempt nonprofit organization whose purpose is to foster Once, when I was with U the practice of vipassana (insight) and Pandita in Burma, he asked us which We can practice faith in many ways, metta (lovingkindness) meditation, and to of the five spiritual powers – faith, though its appearance is often like a preserve the essential Buddhist teachings energy or effort, concentration, mind- gift. We can certainly practice seeing of liberation. fulness and wisdom – was the most the world in a clearer way, with more The goal of the practice is the awakening important. Since he frequently wisdom, which inclines the mind of wisdom and compassion through right demanded so much courageous effort towards faith. If we see, for example, action and cultivating mindful awareness in all aspects of life. from his students, I responded “Effort.” how much everything and everyone is He replied, “No.” As we were in the constantly changing, we see that in the Editor: Gyano Gibson heartland of , that was my midst of change there is always a sense Cover photo: Libby Vigeon IMS Buddha Photo: Dawn Close next reply. Again, he said, “No.” He of possibility – this realization ignites Design: Lux Productions then answered his own question: “Faith faith. If, in the midst of suffering, we is the most important quality, because can still recognize the ties we have to Please address any correspondence to IMS, without it we wouldn’t be moved to others — that all are vulnerable to pain 1230 Pleasant St. cultivate any of the others.” and loss, whatever our present circum- Barre, MA 01005, USA stances are, that we are still held by the Phone: (978) 355-4378 Fax: (978) 355-6398 The Buddha said, “Faith is the begin- boundlessness of life itself even in our Email: ims@.org ning of all good things.” No matter unhappiness, that in truth we are not Website: www.dharma.org what we encounter in life, it is faith cut off and alone, however tempting the PRINTED IN CANADA that enables us to try again, to trust call of despair – that power of

Printed on recycled paper using soy-based inks Fall • Winter 2002 / 2003 INSIGHT

connection awakens our faith. In many capacity that many of us don’t often a faith that is verified through our ways faith is about connection – a tap into. sincere efforts. Then, as we come to deep connection to our own inherent deeply know the underlying truths capacity for wisdom and love no matter Doubt is usually considered of who we are and what our lives are what, a connection to a bigger picture the force that opposes faith. about, abiding faith, or unwavering of life. Wisdom brings us to connection, Do you agree? faith as it is traditionally called, arises. which is the core of faith. This abiding faith in ourselves is differ- There are several kinds of doubt. ent from “conceit”. Conceit lays claim to There are also traditional faith prac- The most helpful is exemplified by the specialness - whereas our fundamental tices, for example taking refuge in the Buddha when he said, in the Kalama nature is not personal, it’s universal and Buddha, Dharma and , which Sutta, “Don’t believe anything, just shared. When we look at the Buddha remind us that we are part of a larger because I say it. Put it into practice and or a great teacher, we can see our own community, and have immense poten- see for yourself if it is true.” We must potential for happiness and sustained tial for living lives not bound to the ask of any belief system: Can it trans- compassion. This is a potential that all past, or to our habitual sense of limita- form our minds? Can it help reshape beings everywhere share. However, if tion. These practices bring us in touch our pain into wisdom and love? we stop at faith in another, admiring with great joy and love, which is the the other and overlooking ourselves, landscape of faith. This kind of skillful doubt – a sincere our faith remains incomplete. and critical questioning – actually What inspired you to write serves to deepen faith. It is based on a How can an understanding about a topic that is often confidence in our own right, and ability of faith help us face current decried in our culture? to know the truth for ourselves. world events?

I wanted to help redeem the word. Another kind of doubt is known in the Over the last year, I’ve heard many In the summer of 2001, I was part of teachings as skeptical doubt, where we people speak about finding something Tricycle Magazine’s conference on neither honestly question, nor put inside them that they didn’t know they in the West (which something into practice in order to see had. To be at all able to move forward poignantly took place in the Marriott what it has to teach us. With skeptical in times of great difficulty or pain Hotel at the World Trade Center in doubt we stand at a distance - we’re means drawing on one’s own deepest New York). I was in dialogue with cynical and remote. It is a stance of experience, in fact relying on the kind Stephen Batchelor, and he asked why isolation, and often rooted in fear. of faith I’m talking about. It is my wish didn’t I use a more palatable word, So, for me, the right kind of doubt is that we can remember to stay more like “trust”. I responded that the word an intrinsic part of the unfolding of connected to our deepest values, to the “faith” often elicits a strong reaction, genuine faith. I think that the state immediacy of love, and to the need to and that there is something valuable in of mind that is truly the opposite of live a meaningful life. our looking at that reaction. People faith is despair. carry different associations with the On a more personal level, word “faith” - perhaps it connotes Can you say a few words is it true that it took you adherence to a belief system, blind about this unfolding of five years to write this book? surrender, unthinking devotion, or a genuine faith? lack of questioning. But, more uncom- My earliest notes were from five years monly, it also implies the power to The of one’s heart happens in ago. Now I look at the book, and while place our hearts, with intelligence and stages. Faith evolves from an initial I’m very happy with how it turned out, discernment, upon that which is wise bright faith – a falling in love with a I sometimes think, “After five years of and compassionate. Faith is a liberating teaching, a teacher, a way of life – to work, it should be bigger!”

Fall • Winter 2002 / 2003 Page 3 IMS News Worth Noting

Young Adult Retreat Retreat Center Schedule reopen in February, 2004 with a full, The Young Adult retreat, especially Developments year-long program. for teenagers, provides a wonderful After a two-year leave of absence, opportunity to help awaken mindful- will return to the Seeking Volunteer Consultants ness, compassion, and lovingkindness IMS Retreat Center in 2003. He will IMS is looking for help from people in enthusiastic budding meditators. teach a vipassana (insight) course with professional skills willing to vol- For the 2003 course, July 4-8, we are May 2-9. unteer some time. If you have expertise looking for both volunteers to help lead in one of the areas below, please discussion and activity groups, and a Sharon Salzberg will teach an addition- contact Deborah Crown, Human benefactor to help us offer the young al metta (lovingkindness) course next Resources Director, (978) 355-4378 adults a gift to take home with them at year. As well as co-teaching metta and ext. 31 or [email protected]. the end of their retreat. vipassana courses in February, she will offer instruction in this heart-purifying • Facilitation in Interpersonal Group leaders should be experienced practice, together with Kamala Masters Communication and in meditation and enjoy teenagers! If and Susan O’Brien, May 17-24. Conflict Resolution you can help, please call (978) 355-4378 • Human Resources/Recruitment or email [email protected]. You will IMS is pleased to announce an expan- • Management Training receive sitting days at the Retreat sion of our courses offered on a dana • Graphic Design Center in return for your service. (generosity) basis. For many years now we have offered a Dana Weekend Each year, an individual or community in late August for which there is no set group has donated $500 to provide a course fee - participants are asked to dharma book for each Young Adult donate whatever is financially possible. dharma.org course participant. If you are interest- We will again offer this course in July, ed in becoming the 2003 benefactor, 2003. In addition, in cooperation with please contact us. the ordained sangha of the Thai Forest A combined web page for tradition, we experimented in 2002 INSIGHT with offering the Monastic Retreat as MEDITATION SOCIETY a dana course. The experiment was and successful, and we happily offer this course again in 2003 on a dana basis. BARRE CENTER FOR BUDDHIST STUDIES There will be no New Year’s Retreat in 2003. Rodney Smith, who has taught With schedules of retreats and this course for the last few years, will courses, registration information, lead a vipassana retreat in April, 2003. how to get here, news and job The Retreat Center will close after the Three-Month course to begin work postings, as well as links to on the long awaited renovations to teachers, centers, and other sites the Meditation Hall and Catskills of potential interest. dormitory accommodations. We will

Page 4 Fall • Winter 2002 / 2003 INSIGHT

Volunteers for Family Retreat Meditation Retreat for People of Color Each year, IMS endeavors to cultivate the mindfulness, compassion and wisdom and compassion in our lives. wisdom of the next generation through With Joseph Goldstein, its Family Retreat. This hugely Ralph Steele and Gina Sharpe The daily schedule is comprised of popular course is thriving in large part alternate periods of sitting and walk- because of the skill and dedication that Jointly Sponsored by ing meditation. There will be group or volunteer group leaders offer, in devel- Insight Meditation Society, individual interviews with teachers, oping and supporting children’s creativ- New York Insight, time for and a nightly discourse. ity and expression. Vallecitos Mountain Refuge, Silence will be maintained throughout We are seeking group leaders for and Life Transitions Institute the retreat except during the teacher the 2003 Family Retreat (August 4-9). of Santa Fe interviews and talks. No previous If you have experience in meditation meditation experience is necessary; and love working with children, we Friday, June 20 the retreat is suitable for both begin- welcome your help. Please call us to Monday, June 23, 2003 ners and seasoned practitioners. at (978) 355-4378, or email [email protected]. We are happy to give volunteers sitting days at the Retreat Garrison Institute It will be held at the Garrison Center in exchange for service. Garrison, NY Institute, a beautiful setting over- looking the Hudson River about an This is a residential retreat designed hour north of New York City. to offer an in-depth experience of the Off the Cushion, The sponsors are able to offer this but Still on Retreat practice of insight meditation. (…Sitting, Walking, Working, Although this meditation is rooted in retreat free of charge, due to the Sitting, Walking, Working…) the Buddhist tradition, the practice is generosity of grants and donations. the simple and non-sectarian training The teachers do not receive any Would you like to be on retreat and yet in moment-to-moment mindfulness. salary. Voluntary gifts (dana) to the integrate mindful work into your daily Through a growing mindful awareness teachers may be offered at the end practice? Would you like to play an of the course. important role in helping the IMS we are able to access deeper levels of Retreat Center offer courses? ✁ If so, we need you! Work retreatants contribute five hours a day during a retreat, either in the housekeeping To register for the Meditation Retreat for People of Color please department or the kitchen, learning how send us the following information. You can either email it to to mix work activities with formal medi- [email protected] or mail this coupon to: tation practice. We typically need 2-4 people per course who would like to Insight Meditation Society • 1230 Pleasant St. • Barre, MA 01005 experience this kind of practice. The only requirements are an able body and a willingness to serve. Work Name: ______retreatants pay a small application fee Address: ______and are not charged a daily rate. City: ______State: ______Zip: ______For application information, please Phone: ______Email: ______call (978) 355-4378 ext. 23 or email [email protected].

Fall • Winter 2002 / 2003 Page 5 IMS is seeking an Executive Director to spearhead its two programs – Opportunity the Retreat Center and the recently completed Forest Refuge – into a new period of organizational growth and stabilization. Building upon the role IMS has so successfully played in the international spiritual land- for Right scape of the last 27 years, we are looking to the future. The Executive Director is the chief administrator of the organization Livelihood and reports to the Board of Directors, as well as working with the Guiding Teachers. Responsibilities include strategic planning, fundrais- ing, board and teacher relations, fiscal management and program design, as well as the direct supervision of other administrators. Executive Director The successful candidate will have: • Demonstrated competencies in strategic planning and visioning, fundraising and development, fiscal management and administration, investment monitoring, staff supervision Insight and team leadership, and board and community relations. • Two to five years experience in executive level management Meditation of a non-profit or business organization of comparable size.

• A demonstrated ability to achieve fundraising goals and Society maintain successful donor relations.

• Strong interpersonal and effective problem solving skills with an ability to manage challenging situations with impartiality, clarity and openness.

• A degree in Business Administration or equivalent experience.

• An understanding and willingness to abide by the ethical guidelines at IMS.

• A strong commitment to the dharma and an experiential understanding of deep practice and the requirements of an environment devoted to it.

This is a long-term position offering housing, food privileges, compre- hensive health benefits, retirement plan, generous vacation and retreat Qualified applicants should send time, and a modest but adequate salary. It is a unique opportunity for a resumé and cover letter by right livelihood as part of an unsurpassed dharma organization in a beautiful rural New England environment. December 31, 2002.

A candidate will be selected by Further information is available at www.dharma.org under June 1, 2003 to begin work at IMS IMS and then Job Listings. on September 1, 2003. Contact the Director of Human Resources at IMS 1230 Pleasant St., Barre, MA 01005 IMS is an Equal Opportunity Employer or email [email protected] An Expression INSIGHT of Gratitude a donor’s story

Two motivating forces led Mary- opened. As she describes it, “you can’t generations may have the opportunity Louise Gould to the meditation address no-self and not open to love.” to come to IMS, Mary-Louise consid- practice that would have a profound Her practice has also impacted her ers it important to give back “in what- impact on her personal and profession- professional life in important ways - ever small way I can.” A consistent and al life. She was seeking a connection the compassion and equanimity she loyal supporter of the annual member- with something larger than herself as experiences as a result of her practice ship and building funds, she recently well as pursuing personal development are solid supports for her work as a made a further commitment to this and self-healing. A student of vital influence in her life. When Siddha Yoga and Swami planning a recent trip to , Muktananda until his death in she was prompted to “get my 1982, she sat her first IMS retreat ducks in order” and revise her in 1983 at the suggestion of a will. “In addition to my chil- respected friend. She immediately dren, I want to support those took to the practice of vipassana essential outside influences that and what IMS offered, finding a have been life-enhancing in fun- discipline and a leadership she was damental ways,” she said. “IMS comfortable with, as well as a safe is one of a very few such influ- and supportive environment. ences.”

Since that first retreat, Mary- Her generous bequest for the Louise has regularly attended IMS endowment will help the courses and is grateful that IMS organization continue doing the is a part of her life. Now 66 years work it does. She also hopes old, she intends to continue sitting that it will help increase the one or two retreats annually at the accessibility of its courses to a center for the rest of her life. She broader audience. says that IMS provides a place to develop her practice under the Mary-Louise ends her daily guidance of “gifted, perceptive, meditation sessions with the fol- loving and wise teachers.” She has lowing dedication, learned from come to understand the meaning Joseph Goldstein in a dharma of refuge: an atmosphere of silence, talk. “May whatever small good safety and encouragement, com- comes of my practice be joined bined with a not-too-rigid disci- with the of all wholesome pline and an absence of dogma. acts in the three times (past, Together they have contributed to present and future), and together the power of investigation that has be dedicated to the welfare, hap- been life-changing for her. therapist. Many of her clients have piness and liberation of all beings.” experienced childhood abuse. The She describes her bequest to IMS as a Retreat experiences at IMS have meditation practice allows her to be material manifestation of this senti- carried over into Mary-Louise’s life in present with them as they tell their ment. many meaningful ways. She has been stories of “the human capacity to able to drop dysfunctional self-beliefs harm another.” For further information about bequests or and finds that she is now less judgmen- other planned gifts to benefit IMS, please tal. She is more able to accept that In gratitude for what the practice contact Tricia Sawyer, tel. (978) 355-4378 “life is what it is.” Her heart has means to her life, and so that future ext. 82 or [email protected].

Fall • Winter 2002 / 2003 Page 7 Forest Refuge Update

Construction Development The construction of The Forest Refuge is almost complete! Buildings are ready for equipment and furnishings, staff is moving in to prepare for next year’s opening, and final grading and land- scaping has begun to return the work- site to a more harmonious condition. With an eye on possible future expansion, the dining hall The facility consists of a meditation has been constructed to include room for up to fifty yogis. hall, retreatant housing, a dining hall, an administration building and a coun- seling center. Accommodations for staff Sayadaw U Pandita to Teach usual model of practice with no fixed and teachers have also been built. Most Opening Retreat schedule, he will guide a structured of the structures are connected by a From May 12 - June 11, 2003, we retreat for those in residence. Yogis for series of internal and external corri- are honored to have the Venerable this course will be expected to follow dors, making it possible to move Sayadaw U Pandita come to The Forest Sayadaw’s schedule and meditation around without difficulty during Refuge for its inaugural period of prac- instructions, based on the method bad weather. tice. As an exception to the center’s taught by .

The Water Project, which will connect The Forest Refuge, The Barre Center Housing can accommodate up to thirty retreatants. The design for Buddhist Studies, and the IMS provides enough space in each single room for both sitting and walking Retreat Center to town water, will be meditation, for those who wish to practice in a more secluded way. completed before the end of the year. As soon as this system is up and running, permits for occupancy can be issued and the buildings will be fully operational.

Program Development The first ‘systems test’ of the site will be the annual IMS Staff Retreat in January next year. This will be followed by a retreat for vipassana teachers in March and April.

On May 12, 2003, the center will offi- cially open for experienced meditators, providing a secluded environment for long-term, self-sustaining practice. In general, there will be no fixed retreat schedule and practitioners may begin their practice whenever an opening is available.

Page 8 Fall • Winter 2002 / 2003 Application Process There are four There is an application process for designated walking anyone interested in practicing at halls – two large The Forest Refuge. Guidelines and and two “singles”. an application form are available from The Forest Refuge office or can be A number of open downloaded from our website porches and www.dharma.org. Click on IMS connectors also and then The Forest Refuge. exist, allowing for open-air walking The Forest Refuge is fortunate to have practice and shelter a generous endowment, which helps to keep rates as low as possible. Fees for from the elements. 2003 are as follows: PHOTOS: PETER KAPLAN First month (30 days) - $1,200 Second month (31-60 days) - $1,100 Third month (61 - 90 days) - $1,000 Long-term rate (after 90 days) - $15/day 2003 Teaching Schedule Some scholarship support is available. The scholarship application form is Joseph Goldstein is The Forest Refuge Guiding Teacher. available on request. Please contact He, along with other experienced vipassana teachers, The Forest Refuge office by calling The meditation hall, sized will teach as outlined below. (978) 355-2063, emailing to accommodate 65 people, is [email protected] or writing to situated on a remarkably quiet May 12 - June 11 • Sayadaw U Pandita The Forest Refuge, part of The Forest Refuge site, 1230 Pleasant St., Barre, MA 01005. away from the access road and June 12 - July 11 the administration building. Joseph Goldstein & Myoshin Kelley

July 12 - July 31 Myoshin Kelley & Carol Wilson

Aug 1 - Aug 14 Carol Wilson & Sarah Doering

Aug 15 - Aug 19 • Sarah Doering

Aug 20 - Aug 31 Sarah Doering & Joseph Goldstein

Sept 1 - Sept 20 Joseph Goldstein & Marcia Rose

The administra- Sept 21 - Oct 31 tion building Sarah Doering & Marcia Rose welcomes visitors and residents to Nov 1 - Dec 15 Myoshin Kelley & Carol Wilson the site - this is where yogis will Dec 16 - Dec 31 • Myoshin Kelley check in on arrival. It is the Please note that the teaching schedule first building to may change without notice. It is our be completed intention that retreatants will have the opportunity to practice with a variety of and ready for experienced and well-qualified teachers. staff occupation.

Fall • Winter 2002 / 2003 Insight Meditation Society 2003 Retreat Center Schedule INSIGHT

Dates Course Title Teachers Course Code Deposit Cost Jan 31 - Feb 7 Metta Retreat* JS1 $150 $320 Feb 7 – Feb 16 Vipassana Retreat* Joseph Goldstein, Sharon Salzberg, Myoshin Kelley & Susan O’Brien JS2 $150 $390 Jan 31 – Feb 16 Metta & Vipassana Retreat* JS3 $150 $665

*Lottery courses. Registration due by December 6, 2002

Feb 21 – Feb 28 Women’s Retreat Christina Feldman & Narayan Liebenson Grady WOM $150 $320 Mar 8 – Mar 15 Vipassana Retreat Larry Rosenberg & Michael Liebenson Grady LR1 $150 $320 Mar 21 – Mar 30 Vipassana Retreat Carol Wilson, Guy Armstrong & Rodney Smith CW $150 $390 Apr 5 – Apr 12 Vipassana Retreat Rodney Smith, Yanai Postelnik & Catherine McGee ROD $150 $320 Apr 18 – Apr 27 Monastic Retreat Sundara & Others AS Donation Donation May 2 – May 9 Vipassana Retreat Christopher Titmuss CT $150 $320 May 17 – May 24 Metta Retreat Sharon Salzberg, Kamala Masters & Susan O’Brien SS $150 $320 May 31 – Jun 7 Vipassana & Viniyoga Retreat Larry Rosenberg with Woods Shoemaker, Doug Phillips & Matthew Daniell LR2 $150 $320 Jun 13 – Jun 20 Metta Retreat SM1 $150 $320 Jun 20 – Jun 29 Vipassana Retreat Steven Smith, Michele McDonald-Smith, Susan O’Brien & Rebecca Bradshaw SM2 $150 $390 Jun 13 – Jun 29 Metta & Vipassana Retreat SM3 $150 $665 Jul 4 – Jul 8 Young Adult Retreat Michele McDonald-Smith & Rebecca Bradshaw with Diana Winston, YA $205 $205 Ed Hauben & Marvin Belzer Jul 12 – Jul 20 Vipassana Retreat Christina Feldman, Fred von Allmen & Yanai Postelnik CF $150 $355 Jul 25 – Jul 27 Dana Weekend Bhante Gunaratana DANA Donation Donation

Aug 4 – Aug 9 Family Retreat* Trudy Goodman & Seth Castleman FAM $100 adult $240 per adult *Lottery course. Registration due by February 21,2003 child $60 Aug 16 – Aug 23 Vipassana Retreat Narayan & Michael Liebenson Grady NLG $150 $320 Aug 29 – Sep 1 Labor Day Weekend Ruth Denison RD1 $170 $170 Aug 29 – Sep 7 Vipassana Retreat RD2 $150 $390 Sept 19 – Dec 12 Three-Month Retreat* Joseph Goldstein 3MO $750 $3,150 Sept 19 – Oct 31 Part 1* Steven Smith, Michele McDonald-Smith, Carol Wilson & Myoshin Kelley PT1 $350 $1,650 Oct 31 – Dec 12 Part 2* Sharon Salzberg, Steve Armstrong, Kamala Masters & Guy Armstrong PT2 $350 $1,650

*Lottery courses. Registration due by January 24, 2003

See following pages for retreat descriptions and information. Please note: the Retreat Center will be closed mid-December, 2003 – February, 2004 for renovations to the Meditation Hall and the Catskills.

Page 10 Fall • Winter 2002 / 2003 About IMS

Insight Meditation Society 1230 Pleasant St. Barre, MA 01005 Phone: (978) 355-4378 Fax: (978) 355-6398 Email: [email protected] Office Hours: Daily, 10am-12noon & 3-5pm (except Sundays & Tuesdays) Sitting a Retreat Retreat Descriptions

General Information Vipassana The Insight Meditation Society Retreat Center courses are designed Insight Meditation (or vipassana as it is was founded in 1975 as a nonprofit for both new and experienced medita- called in Pali, the language of the origi- organization to provide an environ- tors. Daily instructions in meditation nal Buddhist teachings) is a simple and as well as evening talks about the direct practice - the moment-to-moment ment conducive to the practice of Buddha’s teachings are given, with observation of the mind/body process vipassana (insight) and metta individual or group interviews with through calm and focused awareness. (lovingkindness) meditation, and the teachers taking place at regular This practice originates in the to preserve the essential Buddhist intervals. Complete silence is main- tradition of the teachings of teachings of liberation. tained during most retreats at all times, the Buddha. Sitting and walking medi- except during teacher interviews. tation, the first steps in formal practice, A typical daily schedule starts at 5am become the foundation and continuous IMS now operates two retreat and ends at 10pm. The entire day is inspiration for meeting all aspects of facilities – the Retreat Center and spent in silent practice comprising life with greater openness and accept- The Forest Refuge, which are set on alternate periods of sitting and walking ance. Learning to observe experiences 160 secluded wooded acres in the meditation, as well as a one-hour work from a place of stillness enables us to quiet country of central Massachusetts. period. This schedule, together with relate to life with less fear and clinging. the silence, group support and daily Seeing life as a constantly changing instruction combine to provide a process, we begin to accept pleasure Information about The Forest Refuge beneficial environment for developing and pain, fear and joy, and all aspects can be found on pages 8 and 9. and deepening meditation practice. of life with increasing equanimity and balance. As insight deepens, wisdom The Retreat Center, which com- Meals are vegetarian, and accommoda- and compassion arise. menced a program of silent courses tions are simple single and double in 1976, offers a full yearly schedule rooms. Men and women do not share Metta rooms. Camping is not available. Metta is the Pali word for friendship of meditation retreats lasting in or lovingkindness. It is taught as a duration from a weekend to three Evening Discourses meditation that cultivates our natural months. Most retreats are 7-9 days When a retreat is in progress, anyone capacity for an open and loving heart. long. A group of senior teachers pro- is welcome to attend evening Dharma With its roots in practices said to be vide regular and ongoing guidance talks; meditators with vipassana experi- taught by the Buddha himself, metta is and direction as well as teaching a ence are also welcome to attend group traditionally offered along with medita- sittings. Some restrictions apply. tions that enrich compassion, joy in number of courses each year them- Please call the Retreat Center office the happiness of others and equanimity. selves. In addition, recognized insight for a daily schedule. These practices lead to the develop- meditation teachers from all over the ment of concentration, fearlessness, world come to offer teachings. happiness and a greater ability to love.

Fall • Winter 2002 / 2003 Page 11 INSIGHT

Women’s Retreat Vipassana & Viniyoga Retreat young adults to develop and value their In the annual gathering of women at with Larry Rosenberg natural spirituality, within a supportive the Retreat Center, insight meditation The particular form of vipassana medi- environment. Extensive supervision is the vehicle used to help us focus on tation emphasized during this retreat is is provided. a path of awareness free of dichotomies Anapana , where conscious breath- and spiritual, social, and psychological ing is used to develop both calm and Dana Weekend conditioning. There is a full daily liberating insight. Viniyoga in the tradi- This retreat is offered by IMS to affirm schedule of meditation and silence, tion of TKV Desikachar is a form of the spirit and practice of generosity. as well as small group meetings. training that emphasizes the coordina- There is no fixed course fee. Partici- tion of mindful breathing with all pants are asked to offer whatever con- bodily movement, making the breath tribution fits their means. Priority will Monastic Retreat sensations more vivid and in general be given to those who, for financial Each year Western nuns and monks reasons, are unable to attend courses from the Thai Forest Buddhist with fixed course fees. monastic tradition teach a vipassana

retreat at the center. In addition to RALPH DAVIS Family Retreat the regular schedule of sitting, walking This course explores integrating medi- and interviews of a vipassana retreat, tation and family life. In a less formal there are also morning and evening atmosphere, a full program of sitting, pujas (offering rituals) that include discussions, family , and chanting, and the use of candles and talks is offered. There is a comprehen- incense. Retreatants participate in sive children’s dharma program staffed offering service to the nuns and monks by volunteers who coordinate age- and keep the eight monastic precepts, appropriate activities. including not eating after midday. Due to the popularity of this course This course is offered by IMS and all applications received on or before the ordained sangha on a dana (dona- February 21, 2003 will be processed in the tion) basis. There is no set registration following manner: half of available spaces fee. You may be as generous as you will be given to families who have attended feel in making an offering to IMS this course three out of the past five years, and the teachers. preparing the body for extended on a first received basis. The remaining periods of sitting meditation. The yogic spaces will be filled by lottery. Calm and Insight Meditation postures will emphasize mindfulness, Retreat with Christopher so that this training is fully compatible Each family unit pays a minimum of Titmuss with vipassana meditation practice. an additional $35 for the children’s This retreat will emphasize the There will be two optional periods of program. You MUST specify name, importance of deep inner contentment viniyoga each day. Individual needs full date of birth, and gender of all and the flowering of insight into the will be honored; beginners to yoga are children on your registration. conventional and ultimate truth of welcome. Please bring a yoga mat. things. There will be extended periods Retreatants are required to have sat Retreats with Ruth Denison of meditation in the hall with at least two week-long retreats at IMS. The style of teaching of this weekend Christopher, where he will offer a This must be documented on the and 9-day retreat is significantly differ- variety of practices, as advised by the registration form (see page 15). ent from other Retreat Center courses. Buddha, to free the heart, experience In addition to the sitting and walking deep joy and awaken the mind. Young Adult Retreat practice of a vipassana retreat, this Individual interviews will be brief This retreat is specifically for teens, course also includes sound and body and restricted to retreat experience. aged 14-19. It offers beginning medita- movement meditations, and sustained, Suitable for both new and tion instruction, half-hour sitting and ongoing verbal teacher instruction experienced meditators. walking periods, discussions, stories, throughout the day. and free time. The aim is to allow

Page 12 Fall • Winter 2002 / 2003 INSIGHT

Three-Month Retreat During this time, you are expected to requires the prior consent of two teach- The annual three-month course is a meditate in silence, observe the five ers. Those interested should contact the special time for practice. Because of its precepts and maintain a continuity of office for an application form. extended length and the continuity of practice. Self-retreats cost between guidance, it is a rare opportunity to $40-45 per day, depending on length. Financial Information deepen the powers of concentration, For self-retreats of up to six days wisdom and compassion. The teaching immediately before or after a specific Dana is in the style of Mahasi Sayadaw, group course, you can put the dates Retreat Center fees cover only room, refining the skillful means of mental you wish to stay on your registration board and some administrative costs. noting, slow movement, and precise, form. For self-retreats of longer than In keeping with the tradition of dana, open awareness. six days, please call the office for an (the Pali word for generosity) that application form. stretches all the way back to the Prerequisite is three retreats of a Buddha, teachers are not paid by week or more in duration with a rec- Work Retreats IMS but offer the teachings freely. ognized vipassana teacher, or special Work retreats provide a unique oppor- The direct service staff also offer their permission. This experience, includ- tunity to explore the integration of service freely and receive just a small ing teachers’ names, as well as dates mindfulness practice with work activi- stipend. At the end of each course, and length of retreats must be docu- ty. The daily schedule combines peri- retreatants have the opportunity to mented on the registration form. ods of formal meditation practice with offer a donation to the teachers, service five hours of work - in silence - in one staff, and also to IMS itself. The Special cancellation fees and deadlines of the center’s departments. Buddha taught that practicing a for this retreat are as follows. 3MO and lifestyle of generosity is a necessary Part 1: up to Feb 28, $50; from March 1 to Participation is limited to experienced precondition for attaining wisdom April 14, $150; after April 14, full deposit. meditators only and requires a high from meditation. Part 2: up to April 14, $50; from April 15 to degree of self-reliance. Work retreat- May 31, $150; after May 31, full deposit. ants are welcome both during a group Scholarships course as well as in-between courses. It is our intention that anyone who Lotteries Work retreatants during a group desires to practice at the Retreat Due to the popularity each year of course are expected to come at least Center be able to do so, regardless of certain courses at the Retreat Center, one day before opening day and stay financial situation. Our Scholarship admission is by lottery. Each lottery at least one day after closing day. Fund assists all those with low income course has a deadline (see schedule on The work can be physically demanding and/or life-threatening, progressive or page 10). All registrations received by at times. disabling illness who might be unable the deadline are included in the lottery. to afford the entire cost of a retreat. Those people not chosen by lottery, as Work retreats require a separate appli- So that we can provide financial aid to well as late registrations, are put on a cation form. The only fee is a $25 non- as many people as possible, we normal- wait list. Anyone who has applied for a refundable application-processing fee. ly limit the value of scholarships to the particular lottery course two or more A work retreat is not meant to take the cost of one nine-day retreat per person times without getting in is eligible for place of a scholarship. Write to the per year. (The annual Three-Month automatic inclusion - however, you Human Resources Coordinator or call Retreat, as well as extended individual must notify us if this is the case. ext. 23 for information and application. practice, is considered separately.)

Individual Retreat Long-Term Practice A deposit is required on registering - For those who have sat the Three- see page 15 for further information. Self-Retreat Month Retreat and wish to do addition- To access financial assistance, check If you have already participated in a al long-term meditation practice, the the relevant section of the registration course at the Retreat Center, you can Retreat Center has available a limited form, also on page 15. Please be schedule an individual self-retreat number of scholarships in the form of a assured that we will do our best to between courses. You may stay for reduced daily rate. Practice guidelines help you attend a retreat with us. any number of days not exceeding the are similar to those for shorter individ- longest period of teacher-led retreat ual retreats with an additional emphasis that you have done at the center. on self-reliance. Long-term practice LAURA FASANO

Fall • Winter 2002 / 2003 Page 13 Steven Smith is a co-founder of Vipassana Hawaii, and is a Ed Hauben is a long-term vipassana meditation practitioner and IMS Core Faculty guiding teacher of IMS. He teaches vipassana and metta friend of IMS. He has served on the IMS board and has assisted retreats worldwide. with the Family and Young Adult retreats for the past 20 years. Steve Armstrong has been practicing vipassana meditation since 1975, both as a layman and as a monk, and leads Christopher Titmuss, a former Buddhist monk, has been teach- Myoshin Kelley has been practicing meditation since 1975, retreats in the US and Australia. His primary focus is Buddhist ing worldwide since the mid-1970s. Co-founder of Gaia House working with a number of teachers in various traditions. Her psychology. in England, he also organizes initiatives for peace and reconcil- own teaching reflects a strong influence from Burmese masters iation. He is the author, among other books, of Buddhist with an emphasis on simplicity and lovingkindness. She is now Ruth Denison studied in Burma in the early 1960s with the Wisdom for Daily Living, Transforming our Terror and the Resident Teacher at The Forest Refuge. meditation master Sayagi U Ba Khin. She has been teaching Sons and Daughters of the Buddha. since 1973 and is founder of Dhamma Dena, a desert retreat Catherine McGee has practiced insight meditation under the center in Joshua Tree, CA, and The Center for Buddhism in the Carol Wilson has been practicing meditation since 1971. guidance of a number of senior dharma teachers in Asia and West in Germany. She studied with a variety of teachers, including practice as a the West. Teaching since 1997 both at Gaia House and interna- Buddhist nun in . She has been teaching vipassana tionally, she is currently engaged in a project to create “The Christina Feldman has been studying meditation since 1970 and metta retreats at IMS and around the world since 1986. Sangam” – a dharma community in southern . and teaching worldwide since 1974. She is co-founder and a guiding teacher of Gaia House in England and is also a guiding Susan O’Brien has been practicing vipassana meditation since teacher of IMS. She is the author, among other books, of 1980 and has studied with a variety of Asian and western Woman Awake! and The Buddhist Path to Simplicity. Visiting Faculty teachers. She began teaching in 1996 and coordinates the Guy Armstrong has practiced insight meditation for over 20 Insight Meditation correspondence course. Joseph Goldstein is a co-founder and guiding teacher of IMS. years. His training includes practice as a Buddhist monk in He has been teaching vipassana and metta retreats worldwide Thailand with Ajahn . He began teaching in Doug Phillips has been practicing ( since 1974 and in 1989 helped establish BCBS. He is the 1984 and has led retreats in the US, and Australia. and vipassana) since 1978. He currently teaches vipassana author of One Dharma, The Experience of Insight and meditation. Insight Meditation. Marvin Belzer has practiced vipassana since 1982, studying primarily with Sayadaw U Pandita since 1986. He teaches Yanai Postelnik has practiced and studied insight meditation in Narayan Liebenson Grady is a guiding teacher at CIMC where philosophy at Bowling Green University. Asia and the West and has been teaching since 1992. He lives she has taught since 1985. She is the author of When Singing, near Gaia House in England, leads retreats around the world Just Sing: Life As Meditation. Rebecca Bradshaw has been practicing vipassana meditation and is currently engaged in a project to create “The Sangam” since 1983 and teaching since 1993. She is a guiding teacher – a dharma community in southern France. Kamala Masters began practicing in 1975. Under the of the Dhamma Dena Meditation Center in Northampton, MA, guidance of and Sayadaw U Pandita, and also works as a Spanish-speaking psychotherapist. Marcia Rose has been studying and practicing Buddhist medita- she has been trained in vipassana and metta meditations. tion and related disciplines for many years. She was resident She is co-founder of the Vipassana Metta Foundation on Seth Castleman has been teaching dharma and spiritual teacher at IMS from 1991-1995. Maui, and is currently developing a hermitage/sanctuary practice to adults, children, and families since 1995. He is for long-term practice. presently in teacher training with . Woods Shoemaker has been practicing vipassana since 1976. He studied Viniyoga in Madras with TKV Desikachar where he Michele McDonald-Smith has practiced vipassana meditation Matthew Daniell has been practicing Buddhist meditation began teaching yoga in 1978. He is currently teaching vipas- since 1975 and has been teaching at IMS and worldwide since (Zen and vipassana) since 1985. Certified to teach yoga in sana meditation. 1982. She has a deep interest in preserving the ancient teach- the Kripalu and Sivananda traditions, he is currently training ings and in finding ways of expression that make them more in and teaching Viniyoga. is a senior nun of the Forest Sangha. She accessible and authentic in our time. joined the monastic community under the guidance of Ajahn Sarah Doering has practiced vipassana meditation since 1981 Sumedho in 1979. She has taught and led retreats in Europe Larry Rosenberg practiced Zen in Korea and Japan before and teaches at both CIMC and IMS. and the US since the late-1980s. coming to vipassana. He is a guiding teacher of both CIMC and IMS. He is the author of Living in the Light of Death and Trudy Goodman has studied in Zen and vipassana traditions Fred von Allmen has studied and practiced under Tibetan and Breath By Breath. since 1974. She is a co-founder and guiding teacher of the Theravada teachers since 1970 in Asia, Europe and the US. He Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy and leads retreats has been teaching retreats worldwide since 1984. He is the Sharon Salzberg, a co-founder of IMS and BCBS, has practiced nationwide. author of several Buddhist books in German and a co-founder Buddhist meditation since 1971 and has been teaching world- of the Meditation Center Beatenberg in the Swiss Alps. wide since 1974. She is a guiding teacher of IMS and author Michael Liebenson Grady has been practicing vipassana since of Faith: Trusting Your Own Deepest Experience, 1973. He is a guiding teacher at CIMC. Diana Winston is the founder of the Buddhist Alliance for Lovingkindness and A Heart As Wide As The World. Social Engagement (BASE) Program. She has practiced insight Bhante Gunaratana has been a Buddhist monk for over meditation since 1989, including a year as a Buddhist nun in Rodney Smith has been practicing vipassana meditation since 50 years, and is the founder of Society in rural Burma. Since 1993 she has taught dharma to teenagers in 1975, including several years as a Buddhist monk in Asia. He West Virginia. He is the author of a number of books, India and the US. Her forthcoming book, Wide Awake is a has been teaching since 1984 and worked in hospice care for including Mindfulness in Plain English. Buddhism book for teens. 14 years. He is the author of Lessons From the Dying.

Page 14 Fall • Winter 2002 / 2003 INSIGHT Registrations • Are accepted only by mail or in person, • Participation in retreats is always foreign drafts (Canadian drafts must say: not by phone, fax or email. Incomplete at the discretion of IMS. US Funds). registrations (including those without • If possible, please prepay the entire sufficient deposit) will be returned for Wait List retreat cost. completion. • If a course is full you will be placed on • Checks are cashed only when the regis- • Are processed on a “first received” a wait list. When a place opens you will tration is confirmed or when you include basis or lottery (see course descriptions). be confirmed by mail, and your deposit a donation. If you are put on a wait list, Processing order is not affected by check cashed. your check will be cashed if you are con- scholarships. • If you opt to cancel, you must notify us. firmed. If you don’t get into a course, • A confirmation letter or wait list Cancellation fees apply if you are confirmed your check will be destroyed. letter will be sent out as soon as your off the wait list and do not accept. registration is processed; processing Cancellation may be delayed by volume of registra- Payments • If you need to cancel your registration, tions at the start of the year. • The cost of each retreat and the deposit please let us know as early as possible. • All retreatants are expected to required are listed by the course on the Cancellation fees are $25 six or more participate in the entire course: late retreat schedule. weeks before a course starts, $100 four arrivals who do not notify the office in • If you are applying for a scholarship, to six weeks before, and full deposit if advance cannot be guaranteed a spot; the minimum deposit for a weekend later than that. Special fees and/or dates exceptions (for emergency or medical course is $25; for up to 9 days, $50; and apply for FAM, PT1, PT2 and 3MO. reasons) must be approved by IMS. for any retreat over 9 days, full deposit. (See Retreat Descriptions for details.) • For an information sheet about the • Please pay by check or money order in • All cancellation fees are donated to Retreat Center environment regarding US funds drawn on a US or Canadian the scholarship fund. chemical sensitivities, contact the office. bank. We cannot accept credit cards or ✁ Retreat Center Registration Form Office use only • Date received PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY. If you are registering for more than one course, please photocopy this form and send a separate form for each retreat.

Course Code ______Dates you will be here: From ______To______Amount of deposit enclosed $______

Name ______Have you been to IMS before? YES ❑ NO ❑

Address ______

City ______State ______Country ______Zip______

Check ❑ if new address. Old Address______

Day Phone ( ) ______Evening Phone ( ) ______

Fax ( ) ______Email ______M ❑ F ❑

Year of Birth ______Do you smoke?______Do you snore?______Can you offer a ride? YES ❑ NO ❑

Please indicate any physical disabilities or special needs to assist in assigning your room: ______

______

Retreat Experience (for LR2, PT1, PT2, 3MO). Please list teacher names, dates and locations (attach extra paper if necessary).

______

I wish to apply for a scholarship YES ❑ NO ❑ I have added $______to the deposit as a donation to IMS. 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... Web: dharma.org

About BCBS Special Programs The Barre Center for Buddhist Studies The Nãlanda Program offers a model is a nonprofit educational organization for the serious academic study of Subscribe to the dedicated to bringing together teachers, Buddhism, such as one might undertake Insight Journal students, scholars and practitioners who at a college or graduate school. Six to and become a member of are committed to exploring Buddhist eight hours of daily classroom time is the Barre Center for Buddhist Studies thought and practice as a living tradi- balanced by morning and evening medi- tion, faithful to its origins and , tation sessions, as well as informal time There is no fixed subscription fee for yet adaptable and alive in the current for discussion, reading or walking in world. The center’s purpose is to the countryside. Credit may be available the Insight Journal. Please send us encourage the integration of study and from your college or university. whatever you think appropriate as a practice, and to investigate the relation- membership contribution to BCBS. ship between scholarly understanding The Bhãvana Program offers a new How much is appropriate? You decide: and meditative insight. It encourages model for combining the benefits of med- engagement with the tradition in itation with insight into the teachings of ❑ a spirit of genuine inquiry. the Buddhist tradition. Most of the day $20 Covers basic production is spent in silent meditation, much like a expenses and allows us to send you The study center offers a variety classical vipassana retreat, but each day two copies of the Insight Journal each of study and research opportunities, also includes a three-hour study period year without any advertising or a including workshops, conferences, of texts complementary to the practice of fixed subscription rate. retreats and independent study pro- meditation. grams. The BCBS program is rooted in the classical tradition of the earliest The Independent Study Program is ❑ $50 Significantly helps support teachings and practices, but its mission for experienced students who may be the ongoing operation and all the calls for the exploration of all schools looking for a quiet place to investigate programs offered at BCBS. of Buddhism and for dialogue with other the Buddhist tradition on their own religious and scientific traditions. through the integration of study and practice. We welcome scholars to come ❑ $100 Substantially contributes Located on 90 acres of wooded land and experience the benefits of a contem- to the growth and improvement of the in rural, central Massachusetts, just a plative environment for their work, and study center by providing for capital half mile from IMS, BCBS provides a we invite meditators to explore the expenses beyond the annual peaceful and contemplative setting for benefits of the academic inquiry into the study and investigation of the the Buddhist tradition. operating budget. Buddha’s teachings. Facilities include a meditation hall and classroom (capacity The Buddhist Psychology Program ❑ $0 If you would like to subscribe 50-100), a well-stocked library, dining investigates in depth the early Buddhist to the Insight Journal without making room (seats 45), single rooms for 16-20 science of mind growing out of its a membership contribution, the people and three forest cottages. profound contemplative practices, and explores the growing interface between generosity of others will provide what BCBS offers a variety of programs from Buddhist thought and modern psychology. is needed. Mendicants, monasteries a wide range of visiting faculty, covering Through an affiliation with the Institute of and nonprofit service organizations a diversity of topics of interest to stu- Meditation and Psychotherapy, CE are particularly encouraged to request dents of the Buddhist tradition and of credits are available for most mental meditation practice. Most programs are health and other professionals. the Insight Journal as a free gift. one-day or weekend offerings, though many are for one week or two weeks. Please think about going online Course offerings for the first half of 2003 and making a contribution to BCBS are listed on the following page. Please contact us for registration information. through dharma.org. It’s easy!

Page 16 Fall • Winter 2002 / 2003 BCBS 2002/2003 Schedule MTWT FSS Nov 9 Robert Jonas Trinity & Trikãya: Three Dimensions of the Holy 123 & Mu Soeng in Christianity and Buddhism 456789 10 Nov 15-17 John Makransky Awakening to the Ground of Compassion: 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Tibetan Lojong Training 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Nov 22-24 Mu Soeng Indra’s Net: The Interpenetration of All Phenomena 25 26 27 28 29 30 1 Nov 30-Dec 7 Andrew Olendzki Bhãvana Program: 2345678 & Gloria Taraniya Ambrosia The (anupubbi-kathã)

9101112131415 Dec 15-20 Andrew Olendzki Essentials of Buddhist Psychology 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 Jan 24-26 IMP Faculty Meditation for Psychologists and Psychotherapists 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 Feb 1 Ajahn Thanissaro The Four Bases of Power (iddhipãda) 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Feb 2-9 Ajahn Thanissaro Bhãvana Program: Noble Silence, Noble Discussion 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 Feb 14-16 Greg Kramer The Truth of Social Suffering: Its Cause, Its Ending, 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 & a Path of Interpersonal Meditation 27 28 29 30 31 12 Feb 21-23 Paula Green Socially & Greg Kramer and the Practice of Insight Dialogue 3456789 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 Mar 1 Christina Feldman Mind the Gaps (Between Insight & its Embodiment) 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 Mar 2 Doug Phillips Family Dharma: Practice in a Family Context 24 25 26 27 28 12 Mar 7-9 Lama Advanced : 3456789 Natural Mind, Natural Perfection 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 Mar 16-23 Andrew Olendzki Nãlanda Program: The Theravãda Tradition

17 18 19 20 21 22 23 Mar 28-Apr 2 Stephen Batchelor The Theory and Practice of Liberation 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 & 31 1 2 3 456 Apr 4-6 Daeja Napier Kãlãma Sutta: Buddha’s Charter of Free Inquiry 7891011 12 13

Apr 11-20 Leigh Brasington Satipatthãna: and Jhãna: 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Foundations of Mindfulness & the Absorptions 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 Apr 25-27 Ajahn Santikaro Dependent Co-origination & Ego Defenses

28 29 30 1 234 May 2-4 Ajahn Sundarã Renunciation: The Highest Freedom 5678910 11 May 10 Lobsang Tsetan Right View, Renunciation & Compassion 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 May 11-17 Dan Cozort Nãlanda Program: The Vãjrayãna Tradition 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 May 18-23 Andrew Olendzki Essentials of Buddhist Psychology 2345678 May 31-Jun 7 Andrew Olendzki Bhãvana Program: 910111213 14 15 & Gloria Taraniya Ambrosia Samyojana:. The Ties That Bind 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 June 13-15 Rev. Issho Fujita Somatic Elements in Sitting Meditation JUN MAY APR MAR FEB JAN DEC NOV 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 Jun 22-27 Mu Soeng Nãlanda Program: The Mahãyãna Tradition 30

Further information on BCBS course costs, descriptions, teacher biographies and registration is available in a number of ways. Please write to BCBS, 149 Lockwood Road, Barre, MA 01005, or call (978) 355-2347, or email [email protected]. A complete listing can be found in the new Insight Journal, and also under BCBS at www.dharma.org.

Fall • Winter 2002 / 2003 Page 17 INSIGHT Book Reviews

Faith: Trusting Your Own account of her own life and the difficul- Deepest Experience ties that she has faced. She challenges By Sharon Salzberg us not to be broken by the immensity Riverhead Books, 2002 of suffering but to open to the deeper truths of life. In doing so she examines For many Western practitioners, beliefs, doubt, fear and despair - open- faith is a word that needs to be rede- ing the doorway for us to discover the fined in order for it to take its proper unwavering quality of faith. place in our spiritual unfolding. Sharon Salzberg’s new book, Faith: Trusting Although this book will be helpful to Your Own Deepest Experience does just those who practice Buddhist medi- this. Through exploring the word as tation and have struggled with the it is used in Buddhist teachings, and word faith, its teaching will be invalu- illustrating the importance and depth able to people from any tradition. It of faith that Sharon has encountered in holds a universal joyful message of the her own life, she broadens the under- potential to honor and respect the standing of what faith is and the place deepest truth within. It will be a book it can take in ours. we want to have on hand as we touch into the trials of our own lives. The book is rich from cover to cover. Sharon shares with us a very personal Reviewed by Myoshin Kelley

a connection to the dharma... a connection to the oral tradition... a connection to your practice it’s simply a tape...

One of the most exciting aspects of working at Dharma Seed is having new In the Buddhist tradition of generosity, or dana, this program is offered to you recordings of talks arrive from retreats throughout the year. Receiving the new freely, with the opportunity to make a voluntary donation. Please join us in recordings reminds us of all the teachers and practitioners who are actively practicing dana together. Your giving is much appreciated and your support is and intensively devoting themselves to exploring and practicing the Buddha’s vital to Dharma Seed’s work of sharing the dharma. You can receive these talks, teachings of liberation. It reminds us also of our own aspirations and possibilities. which will be specially selected, by subscribing and making a donation of any As much as we can, we want to share these new talks with you. size. Thank you for your sustaining support.

We would like to offer you, through our subscription program, the opportunity Choosing to subscribe to Dharma Seed’s Inspired Teachings 2003 program to receive four selected tapes in 2003, to be sent throughout the year. We will affirms your core support of the radical and beautiful transition we have been choose from among the latest, most powerful and inspiring teachings to send making to freely offer the teachings. Your financial gift will help us to continue you talks to support you in staying connected to your practice, for the benefit our work. We also believe that your subscription is a wonderful way to ensure of all beings. that your own practice will be nourished throughout the year!

Dharma Seed Archival Center Please join us and subscribe to Inspired Teachings 2003 by calling Dharma Seed at (800) 969-7333 or email us at [email protected]

it’s what we do: preserve the teachings... share the dharma

Page 18 Fall • Winter 2002 / 2003 Although Dipa Ma died in 1989, the beacon of her life continues to encourage and guide those who knew and loved her. In this new book, Amy Schmidt has presented the gift of an opportunity to meet and be inspired by Cambridge Insight Dipa Ma. Amy beautifully weaves together an account of Dipa Ma’s life Meditation Center with the heartfelt and often touching CIMC is a non-residential urban recollections of many of her students. center for the teaching and practice A diverse collection of photos comple- of insight meditation. ments the text, bringing a lovely sense CIMC’s programs are designed to of Dipa Ma’s being to the printed page. provide a strong foundation in What shines out of this book is a formal meditation as well as daily portrait of Dipa Ma that vividly evokes practice. Our schedule includes daily her presence; it is a source of bright sittings, weekly dharma talks, faith in a world where accomplished ongoing classes and practice groups, and awakened beings are increasingly teacher interviews, and a variety Knee Deep in Grace: rare. For those who knew Dipa Ma, of weekend workshops and The Extraordinary Life the stories of her will be a poignant meditation retreats. and Teaching of Dipa Ma reminder of a beloved spiritual friend; By Amy Schmidt those who did not will receive the bless- An open invitation is extended to Present Perfect Books, 2002 ing of meeting her for the first time. all to stop by CIMC and browse through the library or join in any Most of us who have practiced at If you have ever doubted your potential of the public sittings or Wednesday IMS have at one time or another heard for awakening, you need to read this evening dharma talks. A growing stories of Dipa Ma, a remarkable book. Dipa Ma embodied the power of number of out-of-town yogis have Bengali woman whose life and teaching faith, the power of determination, and enrolled in our weekend retreats. have had a profound impact on the the power of compassion - and showed Contact us for a list of bed and growth and spread of Theravada us in no uncertain terms how a life ded- breakfasts in the area. . Her legacy to icated to freedom can be transformed. us is immense. She was a teacher and In her teaching, Dipa Ma expected no 331 Broadway role model for many of the senior less of her students than she herself had Cambridge, MA 02139 teachers in this lineage, and was a experienced, yet always tempered her living example of the liberation of expectations with deeply loving confi- Office: (617) 441-9038 heart and mind that is available to dence in each person’s ultimate potential. 24-hour information and all without exception: women as well This book powerfully evokes Dipa Ma’s fax line: (617) 491-5070 as men, lay as well as ordained. voice, and is a reminder to all of us that freedom is just a mindful breath away. Website: www.cimc.info Reviewed by Maile Kjargaard

Fall • Winter 2002 / 2003 Page 19 Non-profit Org. U.S. Postage Insight Meditation Society PAID 1230 Pleasant St. Permit No.7 Barre, MA 01005 Ashland, MA

Serve the Dharma at IMS

Stipend Staff positions available at the Retreat Center in 2002/2003:

• Kitchen For a complete job description see our website • Maintenance www.dharma.org under “Job Listings” • Front Office • Housekeeping Come on stipend staff and: • Integrate work and practice Please contact: • Be of service Human Resources Coordinator • Live with a group of meditators Phone: (978) 355-4378 ext.23 • Fax: (978) 355-6398 • Learn about yourself in relationship to others

Email: [email protected] • Receive a diverse benefits package PHOTOS: LIBBY VIGEON