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INSIGHT

NEWSLETTER

SPRING SUMMER

2004 A Seamless Process: IMS Schedules: The Retreat Center 2004 Practice On and Off the Cushion An Interview with Kamala Masters & Steve Armstrong The Forest 2004/05 Kamala Masters and Steve Armstrong have been teaching retreats BCBS 2004/05 together, both at IMS and worldwide, for more than ten years. They live on Maui, Course Schedule Outline where they are developing a sanctuary and hermitage Ho’omalamalama (the ground for awakening). In talking with Insight Newsletter, they offer their Teacher Interview perspective on the relationship between intensive practice and life.

IMS News Over the last decade, you’ve of mind such as generosity, offered introductory courses for renunciation, effort, truthfulness, and Developments those new to the practice, as lovingkindness and balance of mind. well as longer retreats for advancing students. How do These are the forces which, through you meet the needs of students various Dharma practices, can become in different stages of our default setting – our first response experience? to situations – rather than emotional reactivity, resulting in less harm and Steve: Kamala and I respect and teach suffering. In Burma, householders from a Burmese model of understanding practice the paramis in their everyday how students progress in their Dharma life, raising children, on the job and practice. The distinguished Burmese among their neighbors and friends. meditation master Mahasi , As these qualities ripen through ordinary a pioneer in teaching meditation to those daily activities, the ground is prepared in a lay or householder life, outlined this for the deeply liberating insight that model about 55 years ago. Prior to that, arises through sustained vipassana meditation instruction was not easily retreat practice. available to those outside the ordained community of monks and nuns. Kamala: So we encourage the He taught that householders can develop cultivation of the paramis at home, the essential practice of the paramis, at work and in our social and civic those positive forces or skillful qualities interactions. While one or more paramis (continued on page 2)

THE NEWSLETTER OF THE INSIGHT MEDITATION SOCIETY

CHRISTINE PICHLKOSTNER of their liberating insight, but also in their skillful application of Dharma understanding in daily life.

Kamala, can you say a little about the impact of your practice in Burma?

Kamala: Over the last two years, I’ve traveled to Burma three times – twice to undertake some months of intensive practice with my teacher and meditation master, Sayadaw U Pandita. The third trip involved sutta and study at Sitagu Monastery.

For a long time prior to that, as I Steve Armstrong and Kamala Masters are practiced, other virtuous qualities reflected on and practiced the paramis, are simultaneously nurtured. For example, the quality of renunciation resonated whenever we remind ourselves to prac- deeply in my heart. As I gave this more tice patience – the parami the Buddha energy and attention, the wish to ordain called “the supreme virtue” – we not arose – to shave my head, don the nun’s only create harmony in the outer condi- robes and utterly simplify my life. I was tions of our lives, but in addition support interested to see if outer renunciation INSIGHT the growing inner presence of loving- would help the inner renunciation of NEWSLETTER kindness, equanimity and renunciation. abandoning greed, hatred and delusion. So, I traveled to Burma in 2001 and

A twice yearly publication of the Insight We also encourage students to sit a ordained for two months with Sayadaw Meditation Society, a tax-exempt nonprofit silent vipassana retreat every year, U Pandita. I did this again early this organization whose purpose is to foster whether it’s for nine days, or a month, year. These two times have been amongst the practice of vipassana (insight) and or longer. When we take the time to the happiest of my life; the simplification metta (lovingkindness) meditation, and to temporarily disengage from household of my activities together with his preserve the essential Buddhist teachings of liberation. activities and move into a semi-monastic monastery’s clearly defined practice environment, the momentum towards regimen allowed the constrictions of The goal of the practice is the awakening progressively deeper levels of freedom heart and mind to easily let go. of wisdom and compassion through right in the mind joins forces with the action and cultivating mindful awareness in all aspects of life. momentum gained from strengthening While in Burma I realized how supportive the paramis in our heart. and strengthening it is for me, as one Editor: Gyano Gibson who guides others, to have my own guide. Production: Eowyn Ahlstrom Steve: The Dharma lifestyle of Of course, the bottom line is that the Cover photo: Libby Vigeon IMS Buddha Photo: Dawn Close householder parami practice combined Dharma is our truest guide. There is, Design: Lux Productions with intensive meditation retreats is a however, immense value in turning to middle path between a full monastic someone much wiser who can, with Please address any way of life, and a full householder life fierce compassion, tell me where to refine correspondence to IMS, 1230 Pleasant St. without any spiritual practice. It is a the practice; a teacher who can direct Barre, MA 01005, USA form that seems to suit Western lay and help me reach new horizons Phone: (978) 355-4378 people. We have noticed significant without embellishment or coddling. Fax: (978) 355-6398 maturation in our students who sit Two important things Sayadaw U Email: [email protected] Website: www.dharma.org annual retreats, not only in the depth Pandita said to me were, “You must

PRINTED IN CANADA Printed on recycled paper using soy-based inks Spring • Summer 2004

be willing to be admonished,” and Another simple yet profound practice volume work called Practicing Vipassana; “You must be willing to invest everything that helps create a seamless process a definitive book from the Buddhist you have in the practice.” between householder life and retreat teachings on how to practice vipassana, life is known as ‘Mindfulness of the and much of its content is generally Is it possible to undertake Four Postures’ – sitting, walking, lying unavailable to Western students. intensive mindfulness practice down and standing. Munindraji, In it, discusses the while in a household situation, my other teacher, who passed away in preparatory practices that householders fulfilling parent, partner and October last year, often reminded me can develop and experience both in their financial responsibilities? to practice a general awareness of the everyday lives and on retreat. entire body as it sits, walks, bends or Kamala: Being a mother and respecting turns throughout everyday activities. We have undertaken subsidy of the family needs are primal forces within me. I have found this technique brings about book’s translation and publication. Nevertheless, while raising my children a significant continuity of mindfulness. In January, Kamala asked Sayadaw U I also honored a deep need to take time Pandita what he thought about out now and then for intensive retreat. Steve, you were a monk in making it available in the West. Sometimes, I had to plan for this up to Burma for many years. He responded, in English, “The sooner, three years in advance. I didn’t shirk that How did this prepare you for the better.” Not only will it provide inner responsibility. So, yes, with careful developing a new sanctuary a valuable resource for Dharma preparation it is possible to fulfill on Maui? students and teachers alike, it will also both worldly obligations and intensive establish a baseline in the West for practice needs. Steve: I spent five years in robes, reviewing our own practice and doing intensive practices with Sayadaw gauging its authenticity. Recently, on the way to Burma, I visited U Pandita in . This was while , and had the opportunity to talk Kamala was raising her family. How relevant is the Buddhist with Dipa, the daughter of an extraor- Now, while she is undertaking understanding of mind today? dinary and wonderful Indian woman, intensive practice, I find myself much , whose teachings and practice more involved in householder activities. Steve: In our view, its relevance have contributed greatly to my own Our roles have reversed. is just beginning to be appreciated, development. I asked Dipa what was at least here in the West. Last September, the most awesome thing that she remem- We are in the process of building Kamala and I attended the Mind and bered about her mother. She told me that a Dharma sanctuary on Maui, Life Conference with the Dalai when she was a child she and her mother which requires a lot of raising money, in Cambridge, , where were at the Mahasi meditation center managing finances, and communicating Western scientists of psychology spoke in Burma. Her mother’s teacher, with supporters, neighbors, contractors with the and senior Munindraji, instructed her mother to and the local government. The practices Tibetan and monks and practice for three days, while Dipa I did in Asia provide essential tools scholars about the nature of the mind. was being cared for by friends there. for skillful interaction in these often It was a fascinating dialogue to witness This was not a weekend retreat of sitting challenging situations. My household – Western scientists are just starting and walking, with breaks in between; work is the test of my Dharma practice. to document, through their scientific it meant Dipa Ma sat down for three method and machinery, what Buddhists days solid, without moving. Dipa said Do you see the teachings of have been experiencing for millennia, “She didn’t even get up to go to the Burmese masters continuing to through their meditation. bathroom or to eat!” influence Western ? For further information about Kamala This story inspires me, because it Steve: Most definitely! While Kamala and Steve’s Dharma activities, please validates my own efforts to be both a and I were in Burma two years ago, visit www.vipassanametta.org. devoted parent and a devoted meditation we heard about a book in Burmese by student – though I’m not sure I’ll ever the late Mahasi Sayadaw that had never sit for three days without moving! been translated into English. It is a two-

Spring • Summer 2004 Page 3 INSIGHT

New Executive Director Scholarship Fund Support LIBBY VIGEON IMS is committed to scholarship assistance to those who cannot afford the entire cost of a meditation retreat. Your generous donations have provided funding for many individuals seeking to participate in our programs.

Help someone else to sit. You may designate that your donation be directed to one or more of the following specialized scholarship areas: People of Color, Youth Outreach (for those aged 18-25), The Forest Refuge or The Retreat Center. Dianne E. Horgan

Contributions can be sent to: Last September, the IMS Board of program, the Catskills dormitory Directors appointed Dianne E. Horgan accommodation building has received IMS to the position of Executive Director. a facelift, a youth outreach initiative 1230 Pleasant St., Working together with staff, teachers has begun, and a strategic planning Barre, MA 01005, USA and board members, Dianne directs process is underway, to determine To donate online, visit our website the organization’s two retreat those areas of focus for the coming www.dharma.org facilities – The Retreat Center and years. Throughout this period, The Forest Refuge. Dianne’s dedicated involvement in directing and planning all the varied A native of Massachusetts, Dianne’s components of these activities has background combines an education in been essential. psychology with a professional business career. She first came to IMS in 1999, “It is a gift to be a steward of IMS, when she sat the New Year’s course. “It and an honor to be part of something was a powerful experience – one that that has contributed to the spiritual left me with a strong wish to development of so many, including serve IMS in some capacity,” she myself, over the last quarter century,” explained. “I was able to fulfill that she said. dream in 2002, when I started work as Director of Operations.” Dianne replaces Edwin Kelley who, after a seven-year tenure, Since then, The Forest Refuge has is currently sitting a personal commenced its personal retreat retreat at The Forest Refuge.

Page 4 Spring • Summer 2004 IMS News Worth Noting

Assistance for Young Adult New Youth Retreat Payment and Donation & Family Retreats This summer, an inaugural Youth by Credit Card Each year, IMS endeavors to cultivate Retreat will be held for those aged The option of paying for retreats and the mindfulness, compassion and 18-32. Taught by Rebecca Bradshaw donating directly to IMS by credit card wisdom of the next generation through and Marvin Belzer, it will take place is now available. Registering online two of its courses: the Young Adult August 13-16. through our website will be possible Retreat and the Family Retreat. later this year – details about this will If you have experience in working with “At this age, we often need to face be outlined in the next newsletter and children, are an experienced meditator, significant life decisions,” explains posted on www.dharma.org. We extend and are interested in being a group Rebecca, who has been teaching our deep gratitude for the generous leader for this year’s Family Retreat, meditation to young adults for the donation that made this possible. please call us at (978) 355-4378, last eight years. “The practice of or email [email protected]. We are meditation can help us understand 2005 Schedules happy to offer sitting days in return and appreciate ourselves; it encour- The 2005 Retreat Center schedule of for your service. ages us to approach life with more courses will be posted online by late love and courage. From this place September. For those with internet Each year, an individual or community of deeper awareness, we can open access, this will provide more time to group has donated $500 to provide to important relationships and new plan a retreat – you won’t need to wait a Dharma book for each Young directions with greater wisdom until the Fall issue of Insight Newsletter Adult retreatant. Please contact us and ease.” reaches you in November. if you would like to find out more about becoming a 2004 benefactor Due to some generous financial As soon as the rest of the 2005 Forest for this course. support, we are offering this course Refuge schedule is ready, it will be posted at a reduced rate – fee information on www.dharma.org, and published in our Catskills Facelift Complete is on page 12. next issue. The start of the 2004 Retreat Center program heralded the completion of the long-overdue Catskills facelift. This wing of dormitory accommodations now boasts a new fire sprinkler system, freshly-painted walls and ceiling tiles, upgraded area rugs for the rooms and new carpeting for the hallways. In addition, hardwood bed frames and new mattresses (no longer the

‘foamies’ of old) have been installed. VIS

IMS wishes to thank all those whose RALPH DA donations helped bring this first phase of renovations to fruition.

Spring • Summer 2004 Page 5 INSIGHT Let Your Legacy Do You Live Near IMS? Seeking Volunteer Consultants Preserve the Dharma IMS often needs assistance from the IMS frequently needs help from local community, for short periods of people with professional skills willing time. If you have some spare hours, to volunteer some time or resources. live reasonably close to Barre, MA, If you have expertise in one of the and would value experiencing a prac- areas below, please contact Deborah tice community, why not come and Crown, Human Resources Director, help us – for half a day, a few days – (978) 355-4378 ext. 31 or whatever time your schedule permits. [email protected]. Tasks are many and varied, across our office, development, housekeeping • Development/Capital and kitchen departments. If you are Campaign Planning available on a regular basis, weekly • Brochure Design/Printing Services or biweekly, that is especially useful. • Human Resources/Compensation & Salary Administration If interested, please contact Human • Employment or Immigration Law Resources. Email [email protected] or A simple way to ensure that future call (978) 355-4378 ext. 23. generations benefit from the teachings is to place IMS in your will.

For information on how to do this, or to talk about additional planned giving options, please contact the IMS Development Office by calling (978) 355-4378, ext. 11 or emailing [email protected] CHRISTINE PICHLKOSTNER

Dharma Seed Archival Center Celebrating 20 years of serving the Dharma, supporting practice and preserving the oral tradition

The 2004 Dana Catalog See our Basic Catalog includes over online at: 100 talks on CD www.dharmaseed.org (all talks are priced in this catalog)

Just a reminder, if you can’t get to a retreat, most new retreat talks are available from Dharma Seed.

To request the 2004 Dana Catalog: call (800) 969-7333, email: [email protected] or go to www.dharmaseed.org

Page 6 Spring • Summer 2004

INSIGHT Celebrate Sitting This year celebrates two important milestones. The first of these marks the 60th birthday of IMS founding and guiding teacher Joseph Goldstein (on May 20); the second honors the 30th anniversary of Joseph’s teaching in the West. Together with and , he commenced offering the Dharma at Institute in Colorado in 1974. Two years later, courses at IMS began.

In recognition of these landmark Left to right: Joseph Goldstein, Sharon Salzberg and Jack Kornfield at IMS in the 1970s. events, IMS invites you to join us in celebrating meditation. For a period Would your group like to participate? • Ask family members, neighbors, of 30 days, commencing May 20, Here’s what you can do: co-workers and friends to support you. your sitting group or may like They can sponsor you on an hourly to dedicate some meditation practice • Determine when you would like basis, or for the entire designated time as a fundraiser to jointly benefit to offer some meditation time for period. (You may also wish to both your local Dharma activities and this program. sponsor yourself.) IMS. Any proceeds IMS receives will fund our Youth Outreach Scholarship. • Give these details to our Celebrate • If you want to be part of this, but Sitting Coordinator, Chas DiCapua, don’t have a local sitting group or Joseph has expressed a heartfelt wish who will provide you with further sangha, don’t worry! Please contact for IMS to develop a lasting program to information and tips on how to make Chas; your involvement is appreciated. support youth in practice. We aspire to this a great success. He will also make IMS courses financially accessible send you the necessary pledge forms. • Enjoy your practice, knowing that for all those aged 25 or under – it is our You can reach him by emailing your efforts will further the legacy intention to ensure the continuity of the [email protected], or by calling of the Dharma in the West. teachings for future generations. (978) 355-4378 ext. 65.

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 a significant life or group of meals, at both our programs, transition. 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 The The 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 make a meal donation (which is Entire Day $350 $230 $120 tax-deductible), or to receive additional has flourished in Asia information, please contact since the time of If you, or your group of friends and the IMS Kitchen Manager, fellow practitioners would like to offer 1230 Pleasant St., the Buddha. Meal Dana, we will acknowledge your Barre, MA 01005. gift – if you wish – by inscribing your Call (978) 355-4378, ext. 14 or name(s) on the menu board for a email [email protected].

Spring • Summer 2004 Page 7

In Memoriam “When I was studying with Munindra in , I was struck by his openness whenever my fellow students would (1914-2003) approach him to say that they were Anagarika Munindra passed away interested in going off and exploring October 14 last year. Affectionately another tradition, or that they wanted known as ‘Munindraji,’ he was one of to meet some other teacher. Munindra the significant teachers of IMS founders would consistently encourage them to go. Sharon Salzberg and Joseph Goldstein, When asked by surprised onlookers why playing a pivotal role in the transmission he did so, he quietly stated, ‘The Dharma of Buddhism from East to West. doesn’t suffer from comparison.’ We suffer from comparison, not the Dharma – Born in , he was appointed, we suffer from being proprietary about in the 1950s, superintendent of the the truth, from feeling exclusive and Cambridge Insight in Bodh Gaya, site of competitive. The teachings are not the Buddha’s enlightenment 2,500 years something to hold onto, to defend, or Meditation Center ago. He later spent nine years studying to prove superior. The Dharma is not vipassana meditation practices in Burma a belief to be defended, but a guide CIMC is a non-residential urban with revered meditation master Mahasi for transformation. center for the teaching and practice Sayadaw, and received instruction from of insight meditation. many other notable teachers there. “Once, someone asked Munindra why CIMC’s programs are designed to He developed a vast and profound he practiced meditation. His students provide a strong foundation in knowledge of different vipassana practice gathered around, expecting to hear an formal meditation as well as daily techniques, and eventually became the exalted, lofty answer. He simply replied, practice. Our schedule includes daily teacher of Dipa Ma, an Indian woman of ‘I practice meditation to notice the small sittings, weekly Dharma talks, extra-ordinary accomplishment who was purple flowers growing by the roadside, ongoing classes and practice groups, also an inspiration for many of today’s which I otherwise might miss.’ When we teacher interviews, and a variety IMS teachers. start to notice the small purple flowers, of weekend workshops and we come to not only enjoy them for meditation retreats. Sharon Salzberg recalls some examples ourselves, but to wish that others An open invitation is extended to of how, under his tutelage, the Buddha’s might also see them, for their solace all to stop by CIMC and browse teachings became accessible for her. and enjoyment.” through the library or join in any of the public sittings or Wednesday “When I went to India, at the age of 18, May all beings be free from suffering. evening Dharma talks. A growing Munindraji was one of the first teachers number of out-of-town yogis have I met. At one point he said to me, enrolled in our weekend ‘The Buddha’s enlightenment solved the retreats. Contact us for a list of bed Buddha’s problem, now you solve yours.’ and breakfasts in the area. I found that the most inspiring statement, because it implied that I could in fact 331 Broadway solve my own problem – the unhappiness Cambridge, MA 02139 and confusion that had brought me to Office: (617) 441-9038 India to begin with. The teachings of the 24-hour information and Buddha say that no one else will accom- fax line: (617) 491-5070 plish our freedom from suffering for us, and that no one else need to, because we Website: www.cimc.info ourselves can actually do it.

Page 8 Spring • Summer 2004 Program Developments in financial need. While we will do The As more and more yogis experience a our best to help your practice, we significant deepening of their practice cannot guarantee that every scholarship Forest in this supportive environment, word application will result in an award. is spreading and registration momentum Refuge is building quickly. We recommend Work Retreats that you apply as soon as you can Work retreatants form an integral part determine possible sitting dates, of the successful functioning of to avoid disappointment. The Forest Refuge. To apply for a Work Retreat, please complete and General Information Two-week Personal Retreat mail a Forest Refuge Work Retreat The Forest Refuge program offers The option of a two-week stay is Application Form, together with experienced vipassana meditators the proving a popular choice for those The Forest Refuge Application opportunity for sustained, long-term who might not have time for a longer Form – both can be downloaded practice, from two-week periods to retreat, but who wish to benefit from from our website. A one-month stays of a year or more. The facility’s this particular practice atmosphere. commitment is ideal, and a non- quiet and secluded environment provides refundable processing fee of $25 the sense of harmony most conducive Application Process should be included. For more to the cultivation of insight and loving- For those interested in practicing information, read the Work Retreat kindness. In consultation with the at The Forest Refuge, there is an section on page 15. teachers in residence, a personalized application process. Guidelines and program of meditation practice is created, an application form are available For further information regarding designed to nurture the highest from our office or can be downloaded any Forest Refuge applications, aspiration for liberation. from our website. please contact our office. Call (978) 355-2063 ext. 10, Retreatants can select a time to practice Fees for 2004 are on a sliding scale, email [email protected], at The Forest Refuge based either on as outlined below. Those of you who or write to: their own schedule, or on working with can pay more help make it possible The Forest Refuge, a particular teacher (see the Teacher for others with lesser means to attend. 1230 Pleasant St., Schedule on page 11). Fees include an honorarium for the Barre, MA 01005, USA. teachers. Any additional offering you You can also find out more on Support for a personal retreat includes wish to make to them at the end of our website www.dharma.org. two individual interviews with a your stay is greatly appreciated. Click on IMS and then teacher each week and twice-weekly The Forest Refuge. Dharma talks in the Meditation Hall. A limited amount of scholarship Tapes are also available on evenings support is available to assist those without talks. accepted into the program that are

Length of stay Fee High Mid Low Two weeks $980 $910 $840 First month (30 days) $1,800 $1,650 $1,500 Second month (31-60 days) $1,740 $1,590 $1,440 Third month (61-90 days) $1,650 $1,500 $1,350 Long-term daily rate (after 90 days) $35 $30 $25

Spring • Summer 2004 Page 9 INSIGHT

A Nun’s Perspective

of the last 12 years. Since 1996 she In her own practice, she has found has taken care of foreign yogis this continuity particularly helpful. practicing at Sayadaw’s forest center “It was during my first ten-day retreat in Hmawbi, Burma, translating with Sayadaw U Janaka in for them in interviews, conducting in 1991 that I came to understand interviews herself and providing and realize the value of establishing general assistance for their retreat an unbroken awareness for the whole programs. In 1999, she was invited day. It was only then that I really to teach in the West – something started to meditate. This constant she has continued to offer. awareness of what is happening in the present moment held the entire “For insight to arise practice together and led me to much and wisdom to develop deeper levels of concentration and Ven. Ariya Nyani mindfulness, resulting in a more pro- it is important that Starting July 21, Ven. Ariya Nyani – found understanding,” she explained. a Swiss nun from the Mahasi tradition mindfulness is – will teach through late September constant, precise “I have also observed that this training at The Forest Refuge, together with and yet relaxed.” in uninterrupted mindfulness proves Myoshin Kelley. Ariya Nyani and to be immensely helpful when people Myoshin first met over a decade ago – Ven. Ariya Nyani leave the retreat environment and while practicing under renowned return to normal, worldly life.” meditation master Ven. Sayadaw U In a recent conversation with Janaka’s guidance at his monastery Myoshin, Ariya Nyani outlined what in Yangon, Burma. Their teachings she likes to emphasize in her teaching. will be offered immediately following “For insight to arise and wisdom to Saydaw U Janaka’s visit. develop it is important that mindful- ness is constant, precise and yet Ariya Nyani is the first nun from the relaxed. So it is helpful to cultivate Burmese Mahasi Sayadaw tradition a continuity of awareness throughout of Theravada Buddhism to teach the day, throughout all the for an extended period at IMS. different body postures and activities. (Nuns from the For a vipassana meditator, there teach on a regular basis at The Retreat shouldn’t be any division or Center.) Originally intending to ordain discrimination between the for just a few months in 1992 with ‘three parts’ – sitting, walking and Sayadaw U Janaka, she has remained mindfulness of daily activities – happily in Burma as a nun for most but one steady flow of mindfulness.”

Page 10 Spring • Summer 2004 INSIGHT

The Forest Refuge Teaching Schedule

2004

May 1 – June 30 Joseph Goldstein & Myoshin Kelley

July 1 – 20 Sayadaw U Janaka

July 21 – Sept 30 Ven. Ariya Nyani & Myoshin Kelley

Oct 1 – 31 Marcia Rose & Myoshin Kelley

Nov 1 – 30 Christina Feldman & Carol Wilson

Dec 1 – 31 Carol Wilson & Sarah Doering

2005

Jan 1 – Jan 7 Sarah Doering & Marcia Rose

Jan 8 – Feb 28 Myoshin Kelley & Marcia Rose

March 1 – 31 Joseph Goldstein & Myoshin Kelley

April 1 – 30 T Joseph Goldstein & Michele McDonald LOU ALBER

Joseph Goldstein is The Forest Refuge Guiding Teacher. The teaching schedule may change without notice. It is our intention that retreatants will have the opportunity to practice with a variety of experienced and well-qualified vipassana teachers.

Spring • Summer 2004 Page 11 2004 Retreat Center Schedule INSIGHT

Dates Course Title Teachers Code Deposit Fee High Mid Low Feb 13 – Feb 22 Vipassana Retreat Steve Armstrong & Kamala Masters SK $175 $585 $520 $450 Feb 28 – Mar 6 Vipassana Retreat & Michael Liebenson Grady LR1 $175 $455 $405 $350 Mar 12 – Mar 19 Metta Retreat Joseph Goldstein, Sharon Salzberg, JS1 $175 $455 $405 $350 Susan O’Brien & Patricia Genoud-Feldman

Mar 19 – Mar 28 Vipassana Retreat JS2 $175 $585 $520 $450 Mar 12 – Mar 28 Metta & Vipassana Retreat JS3 $175 $1,040 $920 $800 Apr 3 – Apr 11 Women’s Retreat Christina Feldman & Narayan Liebenson Grady WOM $175 $520 $460 $400 Apr 16 – Apr 25 Monastic Retreat Amaro & Others AA Donation $450 $225 Donation Apr 30 – May 4 Men's Retreat Joseph Goldstein, Phillip Moffitt & Pat Coffey MEN $125 $300 $270 $240 May 8 – May 16 Vipassana Retreat Jack Kornfield, Susan O'Brien, Mark Coleman, JK $175 $520 $460 $400 Heather Martin & Grove Burnett

May 21 – May 30 Vipassana Retreat Carol Wilson, Rodney Smith & Patricia Genoud-Feldman CW $175 $585 $520 $450 Jun 4 – Jun 11 Metta Retreat Steven Smith, Michele McDonald, Susan O'Brien SM1 $175 $455 $405 $350 & Rebecca Bradshaw with Franz Moeckl (Qigong)

Jun 11 – Jun 20 Vipassana Retreat SM2 $175 $585 $520 $450 Jun 4 – Jun 20 Metta & Vipassana Retreat SM3 $175 $1,040 $920 $800 Jun 18 – Jun 21 People of Color Retreat* Joseph Goldstein, Gina Sharpe & Rachel Bagby POC $25 $225 $110 Donation

*Note: at the Garrison Institute, NY Jun 25 – Jun 29 Young Adult Retreat Michele McDonald & Rebecca Bradshaw YA $240 $300 $270 $240 with Diana Winston, Marvin Belzer & Eddie Hauben

Jul 2 – Jul 9 Vipassana Retreat Larry Rosenberg & Corrado Pensa LR2 $175 $455 $405 $350 Jul 17 – Jul 25 Vipassana Retreat Christina Feldman & Rodney Smith CF $175 $520 $460 $400

Aug 1 – Aug 6 Family Retreat Yanai Postelnik, Trudy Goodman & Catherine McGee FAM (Adult) $175 $400 $365 $325

(Child) $240 $200 $163 Aug 13 – Aug 16 Youth Retreat Rebecca Bradshaw & Marvin Belzer YR $25 $225 $110 Donation Aug 20 – Aug 29 Vipassana Retreat Narayan & Michael Liebenson Grady NLG $175 $585 $520 $450 Sep 3 – Sep 6 Labor Day Weekend Ruth Denison RD1 $125 $240 $220 $195 Sep 6 – Sep 12 Vipassana Retreat RD2 $175 $390 $345 $300 Sep 3 – Sep 12 Vipassana Retreat RD3 $175 $585 $520 $450 Sep 17 – Sep 19 Dana Weekend Bhante Gunaratana DANA Donation Donation Sep 24 – Dec 17 Three-Month Retreat Joseph Goldstein 3MO $750 $5,040 $4,410 $3,780 Sep 24 – Nov 5 Part 1 Steven Smith, Michele McDonald, Carol Wilson & Rebecca Bradshaw PT1 $375 $2,520 $2,205 $1,890 Nov 5 – Dec 17 Part 2 Sharon Salzberg, Steve Armstrong, Kamala Masters & Guy Armstrong PT2 $375 $2,520 $2,205 $1,890 Dec 28 – Jan 6 New Year’s Retreat Rodney Smith, Narayan Liebenson Grady & Yanai Postelnik NY $175 $585 $520 $450

Please see the following pages for retreat descriptions and information.

Page 12 Spring • Summer 2004 About IMS

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

LIBBY VIGEON

The Insight Meditation Society was Sitting a Retreat Retreat Descriptions founded in 1975 as a nonprofit organization to provide an environ- General Information Vipassana Retreat Center courses are designed for Insight Meditation (vipassana in Pali, ment conducive to the practice of both new and experienced meditators. the language of the original Buddhist vipassana (insight) and metta Instruction in meditation and evening teachings) is the simple and direct (lovingkindness) meditation, and talks about the Buddha’s teachings are practice of moment-to-moment mind- to preserve the essential Buddhist given daily. Individual or group inter- fulness. Through careful and sustained teachings of liberation. views with the teachers take place at observation, we experience for ourselves regular intervals. Complete silence is the ever-changing flow of the mind/body maintained during most retreats at all process. This awareness leads us to IMS now operates two retreat times, except during question and inter- accept more fully the pleasure and pain, facilities – The Retreat Center and view times. A typical daily schedule fear and joy, sadness and happiness that The Forest Refuge, which are set on starts at 5 am and ends at 10 pm. The life inevitably brings. As insight deepens, 160 secluded wooded acres in the entire day is spent in silent practice we develop greater equanimity and quiet country of central Massachusetts. comprising alternate periods of sitting peace in the face of change, and wisdom and walking meditation, as well as a and compassion increasingly become the one-hour work period. This schedule, guiding principles of our lives. Information about The Forest Refuge in combination with the silence, group can be found on pages 9-11. support and daily instruction, provides The Buddha first taught vipassana over a beneficial environment for developing 2,500 years ago. The various methods The Retreat Center, which commenced and deepening meditation practice. of this practice have been well preserved a program of silent courses in 1976, in the Theravada tradition of Buddhism, offers a full yearly schedule of Meals are vegetarian, and accommo- and the retreats at IMS are all rooted dations are simple single and double in this ancient and well-mapped path meditation retreats lasting in rooms. Men and women do not share to awakening. duration from a weekend to three rooms. Camping is not available. months. Most retreats are 7-9 days Metta long. A group of senior teachers Evening Discourses Metta is the Pali word for friendship or provides regular guidance and When a retreat is in progress, anyone lovingkindness. It is taught as a medita- direction to IMS as well as teaching is welcome to attend evening Dharma tion that cultivates our natural capacity talks; meditators with vipassana for an open and loving heart. With its a number of courses each year experience are also welcome to attend roots in practices said to be taught by the themselves. In addition, recognized group sittings. Some restrictions apply. Buddha himself, metta is traditionally insight meditation teachers from all Please call the Retreat Center office for offered along with that over the world come to offer teachings. a daily schedule. enrich compassion, joy in the happiness

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INSIGHT

of others and equanimity. These practices The deposit and sliding scale fees listed Retreats with Ruth Denison lead to the development of concen- on page 12 for this retreat are suggested The style of teaching of these retreats is tration, fearlessness, happiness and amounts to help cover our expenses. unique in the IMS schedule. In addition a greater ability to love. No-one will be turned away due to lack to traditional sittings and Dharma of funds; we will accept whatever you talks, Ruth leads her students into the Women’s Retreat can afford to contribute. phenomenology of sound and movement, Each year we provide the opportunity which then become the subjects of for women to develop and deepen Young Adult Retreat insight and wisdom. Individual and their practice in this most conducive This retreat is specifically for teens, group-as-a-whole activities such as of settings and community. Following aged 14-19. It offers beginning chanting, dance and playful celebration, the familiar rhythms of sustained and meditation instruction, half-hour done with respectful mindfulness, become silent practice in an environment of sitting and walking periods, discussions, vehicles for vipassana attention and trust and support, countless women stories and free time. The aim is to awakening. This is accomplished with over the years commit themselves to allow young adults to develop and Ruth’s ever-present, skillful support. being at IMS during this week. value their natural spirituality within a supportive environment. Extensive Participants can help Ruth celebrate Monastic Retreat supervision is provided. her 82nd birthday during this time. Western nuns and monks from the Thai Forest Buddhist monastic Family Retreat Dana Weekend tradition teach a vipassana retreat each Within an environment supportive of This retreat is offered by IMS to year at the center. In addition to the meditative and contemplative experi- affirm the spirit and practice of regular schedule of sitting, walking ence, this course cultivates the integra- generosity. There is no fixed course and interviews, there are also morning tion of meditation and mindfulness into fee. Participants are asked to offer and evening pujas (offering rituals) family life. Through sitting, discussions, whatever contribution fits their means. that include chanting, and the use of family meditations and talks, we explore candles and incense. Retreatants our commitment to deepening our Three-Month Retreat participate in offering service to the practice in order to compassionately The annual three-month course is a nuns and monks and keep the eight serve all beings. A children’s Dharma special time for practice. Because of its monastic precepts, including not program staffed by volunteers who extended length and the continuity of eating after midday. coordinate age-appropriate activities guidance, it is a rare opportunity to is included. deepen the powers of concentration, Men’s Retreat wisdom and compassion. The teaching For over 2,500 years communities of Each family unit pays a minimum of is in the style of Mahasi Sayadaw, men, both ordained and lay, have come an additional $35 for the children’s refining the skillful means of mental together to practice the Buddha’s teach- program. You MUST specify name, noting, slow movement and precise, ings. IMS is now offering a four-day full date of birth and gender of all open awareness. vipassana course for men (complement- children on your registration. ing the long-established Women’s Prerequisite is three retreats of a Retreat) as a way of continuing this Youth Retreat week or more in duration with a tradition. It will follow the usual format For ages 18-32, this retreat specifically recognized vipassana teacher, or of sitting and walking meditation, group addresses the practice needs of new special permission. This experience, interviews, and evening Dharma talks. and experienced meditators in the including teachers’ names, as well as challenging years of early adulthood. dates and length of retreats must be People of Color Retreat The format includes daily meditation documented on the registration form. This course is designed to provide instruction, group and individual Special cancellation fees and deadlines apply an in-depth experience of insight interviews as well as opportunities for for this retreat. 3MO and Part 1: up to meditation, and to foster mutual support questions and discussion. March 31, $50; from April 1 to May 15, and understanding among the growing $150; after May 15, $350 for 3MO, and community of people of color who find $250 for Part 1. Part 2: up to May 15, $50; nourishment and inspiration in this from May 16 to June 30, $150; after June practice. No previous meditation 30, $250. Please note that these amounts experience is required; beginners will apply even if you wish to move from are encouraged to attend. any part of the course to another.

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RALPH DAVIS INSIGHT

Individual Retreat Retreat Center has available a limited Policy for Media Visits number of scholarships in the form Self-Retreat of a reduced daily rate. Practice guide- If you have participated in a course at lines are similar to those for self-retreats As the Dharma takes root in our the Retreat Center, you can schedule an with an additional emphasis on self- society, various media are express- individual self-retreat between courses. reliance. Long-term practice requires ing interest in reporting aspects The length of stay may not exceed the the prior consent of two teachers. Those of the work that we do at IMS. longest period of teacher-led retreat interested should contact the office for that you have done at the center. an application form. This presents our community with During this time, you are expected to a valuable opportunity to introduce meditate in silence, observe the five Financial Information the teachings to a wider audience. precepts and maintain a continuity of practice. The sliding scale fee is $48-63 Dana per day, depending on your means. Retreat Center fees cover only room, While maintaining our primary board and some administrative costs. In For self-retreats of up to six days commitment to supporting practice, immediately before or after a specific keeping with the tradition of dana, (the group course, you can put the dates on Pali word for generosity) that stretches IMS may agree occasionally to your registration form. For self-retreats all the way back to the Buddha, teach- requests from appropriate media ers are not paid by IMS but offer the of longer than six days, please call the to visit IMS for reporting. Before office for an application form. teachings freely. The direct service staff also offer their service freely and receive any such request is granted, the Work Retreats just a small stipend. At the end of each requesting journalists will be careful- Work retreats provide an opportunity course, retreatants have the opportunity ly screened to assure as best we to explore the integration of mindful- to offer a donation to the teachers, serv- can, their ability to report fairly on ness practice with work activity. ice staff and also to IMS itself. The daily schedule combines periods our work with minimal interference. of formal meditation and instruction The Buddha taught that practicing a with five hours of work – in silence lifestyle of generosity is a necessary Notice of any media visit that – in either the Kitchen or House- precondition for attaining wisdom. keeping department. occurs during a course will be Scholarships given. We will advise retreatants Our Scholarship funds assist those Participation is limited to experienced as far in advance as is practically meditators and requires a high degree of who are unable to afford the entire self-reliance. The timing of work retreats cost of a retreat. Each request is possible. We will respect the wishes usually corresponds with the schedule of carefully assessed in terms of financial of any yogi who prefers not to be need, previous history and funds teacher-led courses. Since the work can included and endeavor to work be physically demanding, a moderate available. Due to limited resources, level of physical fitness is required. we cannot guarantee that every with the journalist(s) to minimize application will result in a scholarship any impact on our meditative A separate application form needs award. Please be assured, however, environment and on yogis. to be completed for a work retreat. that we will do our best to help you We appreciate your understanding The only cost is a $25 nonrefundable attend a retreat with us. processing fee. For further information Please submit your scholarship appli- of our efforts to share the Dharma and application, please contact the cation at least six (6) weeks in advance in this way and welcome any Human Resources Coordinator – of the course start date. This allows comments, suggestions or call (978) 355-4378, ext. 23, for a process to review, award and email [email protected], write to IMS advise in a timely manner. questions you may have. or visit our website. To apply, complete the registration form Long-Term Practice on page 17 and include the appropriate For those who have sat the Three- deposit amount. Check the relevant box Month Retreat and wish to do additional for scholarship and an application will long-term meditation practice, the be sent to you.

Spring • Summer 2004 Page 15 finding ways of expression that make them more accessible and Patricia Genoud-Feldman has been practicing Buddhist medita- IMS Core Faculty authentic in our time. tion (vipassana and ) in Asia and the West since 1984 and teaching vipassana internationally since 1997. She is co-founder of Ven. began his training in in 1978 Corrado Pensa teaches vipassana in Italy and the US. Since 1987 the Meditation Center Vimalakirti in Geneva, Switzerland. with . He was a senior monk at Amaravati Buddhist he has been the guiding teacher of the Association for Mindfulness Monastery in England for some years, and now resides at Meditation in Rome. He is also a professor of Eastern Philosophy at Trudy Goodman has studied in and vipassana traditions Abhayagiri in Redwood Valley, CA, a new branch monastery in the University of Rome and a former psychotherapist. since 1974. She is a co-founder and guiding teacher of the the forest meditation tradition. Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy. She founded Insight LA Larry Rosenberg practiced Zen in Korea and Japan before com- in Los Angeles, CA and leads retreats nationwide. Guy Armstrong has practiced insight meditation for over ing to vipassana. He is a guiding teacher of CIMC and the author 20 years. His training includes practice as a Buddhist monk in of Living in the Light of Death and Breath By Breath. Bhante Gunaratana has been a Buddhist monk for over 50 Thailand with Ajahn . He began teaching in 1984 years, and is the founder of Society in rural West and has led retreats in the US, Europe and Australia. Sharon Salzberg, a co-founder of IMS and BCBS, has practiced Virginia. He is the author of a number of books, including Buddhist meditation since 1971 and has been teaching worldwide Mindfulness in Plain English. Steve Armstrong has practiced mindfulness since 1975, and has since 1974. She is a guiding teacher of IMS and author of Faith, led vipassana and metta retreats grounded in the Buddha’s under- Lovingkindness and A Heart As Wide As the World. Ed Hauben is a long-term vipassana meditation practitioner and standing of mind since 1990. A co-founding director and guiding friend of IMS. He has served on the IMS board and has assisted teacher of Ho’omalamalama: a Dhamma sanctuary and hermitage Rodney Smith has been teaching insight meditation since 1984. with the Family and Young Adult retreats for the past 20 years. on Maui, he offers the Dhamma internationally. He is a former Buddhist monk and worked in hospice care for 16 years. He is the author of Lessons From the Dying and is currently Heather Martin has been practicing vipassana meditation since Ruth Denison studied in Burma in the early 1960s with the medi- the founding and guiding teacher for the Seattle Insight 1981 with many teachers, both Asian and Western – initially tation master Sayagi U Ba Khin. She has been teaching since 1973 Meditation Society. S.N. Goenka. She is currently a teacher-in-training with Jack and is founder of Dhamma Dena, a desert retreat center in Joshua Kornfield, and lives in B.C., Canada. Tree, CA, and The Center for in Germany. Steven Smith is a co-founder of Vipassana Hawaii, and is a guiding teacher of IMS. He teaches vipassana and metta retreats worldwide. Catherine McGee has practiced insight meditation under the guid- Sarah Doering has practiced vipassana meditation since 1981 ance of a number of senior Dharma teachers in Asia and the West. She and teaches at both CIMC and IMS. Carol Wilson has been practicing meditation since 1971. She has been teaching since 1997 both at Gaia House and internationally. studied with a variety of teachers, including practice as a Buddhist Christina Feldman has been studying meditation since 1970 nun in Thailand. She has been teaching vipassana and metta Franz Moeckl, a vipassana practitioner since 1985, teaches and teaching worldwide since 1974. She is co-founder and a guid- retreats at IMS and around the world since 1986. Qigong in the US and Europe. He has studied and practiced ing teacher of Gaia House in England and is also a guiding teacher Qigong for over 20 years. of IMS. She is the author of Woman Awake! and The Buddhist Path to Simplicity. Visiting Faculty Phillip Moffitt began studying vipassana meditation in 1983, and now teaches retreats throughout the country. He writes the Joseph Goldstein is a co-founder and guiding teacher of IMS. Ven. Ariya Nyani was born in Switzerland, and ordained with Dharma Wisdom column for Journal, is the co-author of He has been teaching vipassana and metta retreats worldwide Sayadaw U Janaka in Burma in 1992, after many years of The Power to Heal and the founder of the Life Balance Institute. since 1974 and in 1989 helped establish BCBS. He is the author Buddhist practice. Based at Sayadaw’s forest center of Chanmyay of One Dharma, The Experience of Insight and Insight Meditation. Yeiktha, she translates and assists foreign meditators, as well as Susan O’Brien has been practicing vipassana meditation since teaching vipassana retreats in Australia and Europe. 1980 and has studied with a variety of Asian and western teach- Myoshin Kelley has been practicing meditation since 1975, ers. She began teaching in 1996 and coordinates the Insight working with a number of teachers in various traditions. Her own Rachel Bagby, a long-time meditator, is a vocal artist, composer, Meditation correspondence course. teaching reflects a strong influence from Burmese masters with an environmental activist and poet. She is the author of Divine emphasis on simplicity and lovingkindness. She currently teaches Daughters: Liberating the Power and Passion of Women’s Voices. Yanai Postelnik has practiced and studied insight meditation in at The Forest Refuge. Asia and the West and has been teaching since 1992. Marvin Belzer has practiced vipassana since 1982, studying He lives in Devon, England and is a member of the Gaia Jack Kornfield trained as a Buddhist monk in Asia. He is a co- primarily with Sayadaw U Pandita since 1986. He teaches philoso- House Teacher Council. founder of IMS and Spirit Rock Meditation Center, and has taught phy at Bowling Green University. meditation internationally since 1974. He is the author of a num- Sharda Rogell has been teaching worldwide since 1985 in the ber of books, including A Path with Heart and After the Ecstasy, Rebecca Bradshaw has been practicing vipassana meditation Theravada tradition where she brings a strong emphasis to awak- the Laundry. since 1983 and teaching since 1993. She is a guiding teacher of ening heartfulness. She is on the Teacher Council at Spirit Rock the Dhamma Dena Meditation Center in Northampton, MA, and Meditation Center in CA. Michael Liebenson Grady has been practicing vipassana since also works as a Spanish-speaking psychotherapist. 1973. He is a guiding teacher at CIMC. Marcia Rose has practiced Buddhist meditation since 1970, and Grove Burnett, an environmental lawyer and co-director of the was IMS resident teacher 1991-1995. Since then she has taught at Narayan Liebenson Grady is a guiding teacher at CIMC where Vallecitos Mountain Refuge in NM, has practiced Buddhist medita- IMS and worldwide. She is a co-founder and guiding teacher of she has taught since 1985. She is the author of When Singing, tion since the early 1980s. Over the last decade he has helped lead Taos Mountain Sangha Meditation Center and The Mountain Just Sing: Life As Meditation. retreats hosted by the Center for Contemplative Mind in Society. Hermitage, both in Taos, NM.

Kamala Masters began practicing in 1975. Under the guidance of Pat Coffey has practiced and studied meditation for over Gina Sharpe has studied and practiced Buddhism for over 30 Anagarika Munindra and Sayadaw U Pandita she has been trained 20 years. He is a graduate of the three-year Community Dharma years, across several traditions. She is a graduate of the first Spirit in vipassana and metta meditations. She is co-founder of the Leadership program sponsored by Spirit Rock Meditation Center. Rock Community Dharma Leaders Program, and a co-founder of Vipassana Metta Foundation on Maui and is currently developing He currently leads two sitting groups in Charlottesville, VA. New York Insight. She has taught meditation since 1994. Ho’omalamalama: a sanctuary-hermitage for long-term practice. Mark Coleman is currently residential staff Dharma teacher at Diana Winston is the founder of the Buddhist Alliance for Social Michele McDonald has practiced vipassana meditation since Spirit Rock Meditation Center. Following extensive training over Engagement Program. She has practiced meditation since 1989, 1975 and has been teaching at IMS and worldwide since 1982. the last 20 years in several Buddhist traditions, he has been teach- and since 1993 has taught Dharma to teenagers. She is the author She has a deep interest in preserving the ancient teachings and in ing retreats since 1997. of Wide Awake: A Buddhist Guide for Teens.

Page 16 Spring • Summer 2004 Retreat Center Registrations that we take great care in such situations money order in US funds, drawn on a – the discernment process is thorough US or Canadian bank. We cannot accept • Are accepted by mail or in person. and always with the intention to protect foreign cash or bank drafts. Incomplete registrations, including those the majority of those who practice here. • If possible, please pay the entire retreat without sufficient deposit, will be returned. cost on registering; this helps our efficiency. • Are processed by date received or by lottery. Wait List • Make check or money order payable • A confirmation letter is sent as soon as to IMS, or include credit card your registration has been processed, • If a course is full, you will be placed on information below. which can take up to four weeks. a wait list and notified if an opening • All retreatants are expected to participate occurs. If you do not get into a course, Cancellation in the entire course. Prior approval of your deposit will be refunded. both the teacher and the office is required • If you need to cancel your registration, for those wishing to arrive late or leave Payments please contact us as soon as possible. early. Once a retreat is in process, such Fees are: $25 if you cancel six or more movement is disruptive to others and • Retreat fees and deposits are listed beside weeks before a course begins; $100 four places an additional burden on other each course on the schedule (see page 12). to six weeks before; and the full deposit retreatants with regard to work periods. Pricing is on a sliding scale basis – this less than four weeks before. Your room cannot be guaranteed if you allows you to pay according to your means. • The Three-Month Retreat cancellation arrive late; the full course fee will be Any amount paid above the minimum is policy is more stringent. (Please see charged regardless of length of stay. a tax-deductible donation. page 14 for this information.) • Please contact the office if you are • The full deposit is required even if you • Cancellation fees apply if you are con- chemically sensitive. are applying for a scholarship, except for firmed into a course off of the wait list and • IMS strives to provide a safe, peaceful those applying through the Youth do not accept. So please be sure to notify and efficient environment for meditators. Outreach Program, in which case a us immediately if you decide to cancel. It is with regret that we find, at times, the $50 deposit is accepted. • All cancellation fees are donated need to turn someone away. Please know • Please pay by check, credit card or to the Scholarship Fund. ✁ Retreat Center Registration Form PLEASE COMPLETE IN FULL AND PRINT CLEARLY. Mail to IMS, 1230 Pleasant St., Barre, MA 01005, USA. If you are registering for more than one course, photocopy this form and send a separate form for each retreat. Course Code ______Visit Dates: From ______To ______Deposit $______Name ______Sliding Scale Amount You Will Pay $______Address ______Have you been to IMS before? YES ❑ NO ❑ City ______State ______Country ______Zip______Check ❑ if new address. Old Address ______Day Phone ( ) ______Evening Phone ( ) ______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. ❑ I have added $______as a donation to IMS.

❑ ❑ Credit Card #

Exp. Date ______/______Exact Name on Credit Card ______

Total amount to charge Credit Card $______Cardholder Signature ______

May we add your street address to our mailing list? For IMS use only? YES ❑ NO ❑ For sharing with similar organizations? YES ❑ NO ❑ May we add your email address to our emailing list? For IMS use only? YES ❑ NO ❑ For sharing with similar organizations? YES ❑ NO ❑ 149 Lockwood Road Barre, MA 01005 Phone: (978) 355-2347 Barre Center for 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 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 May 1 (Saturday) Sylvia Forges-Ryan & Ripples in a Pond: Haiku and Meditation Edward Ryan May 2 (Sunday) Doug Phillips Family Dharma: Practice in a Family Context May 8 (Saturday) Lama John Makransky Giving Tantric Expressions to Buddhist Attitudes May 9-14 (5 days) Andrew Olendzki Essentials of Buddhist Psychology May 15-22 (7 days) Andrew Olendzki & Bhavana Program: Empty of Self Gloria Taraniya Ambrosia May 28-30 (Weekend) Mu Soeng The Ox-Herding Pictures Jun 6-11 (5 days) Mu Soeng Bhavana Program: Emptiness Jun 13-18 (5 days) Andrew Olendzki Abhidhamma: Classical Buddhist Psychology Subscribe to the Jun 26 (Saturday) Lee Robbins & Mu Soeng Karma and Archetype: Jungian and Buddhist Perspectives Jul 16-18 (Weekend) Taitetsu Unno & Mark Unno Shin Buddhism Insight Journal Jul 22-25 (3 days) Bill Morgan, Susan Morgan & Meditation for Psychotherapists and become a member of the Ron Siegel Barre Center for Buddhist Studies Aug 7 (Saturday) Trudy Goodman Mindful Relationships with Children Aug 27-30 (3 days) Sumi Loundon & Chas DiCapua Dharma for Young Adults There is no fixed subscription fee Sep 4 (Saturday) Joseph Goldstein Rest Your Weary Mind: Letting Go of the Hindrances for the Insight Journal. Please send us Sep 12-17 (5 days) Stephen & Martine Batchelor The Path to the Deathless whatever you think appropriate as a Sep 18-22 (4 days) Steve Armstrong & The Theory and Practice of Freedom membership contribution to BCBS. Kamala Masters How much is appropriate? You decide: Sep 24-26 (Weekend) Mark Hart The Medicine of Dhamma in Times of Illness ❑ $20 Covers basic production expenses Oct 1-6 (5 days) Daeja Napier The Four Brahma Viharas and allows us to send you two copies Oct 9 (Saturday) Narayan & Mindfulness in Relationship of the Insight Journal each year Michael Liebenson Grady (May & Nov) with no advertising Oct 10 (Sunday) Andrew Olendzki The Metta Sutta and no fixed subscription fee. Oct 16-23 (7 days) Greg Kramer Bhavana Program: Insight Dialogue ❑ $50 Significantly helps support Oct 29-31 (Weekend) Chip Hartranft & Patanjali and Buddha: the ongoing operation and all the Andrew Olendzki The Yoga programs offered at BCBS. Nov 6 (Saturday) Mu Soeng Heart Sutra: Form as Emptiness, Emptiness as Form Nov 7 (Sunday 1-5 pm) Sharon Salzberg The Power of a Loving Heart: Metta Meditation ❑ $100 Substantially contributes to the growth and improvement of the study Nov 19-21 (Weekend) Christina Feldman Fear, Contraction and Release center by providing for capital expenses Nov 28-Dec 3 (5 days) Andrew Olendzki Essentials of Buddhist Psychology beyond the annual operating budget. Dec 4-11 (7 days) Andrew Olendzki & Bhavana Program: Contentment Gloria Taraniya Ambrosia ❑ $0 If you would like to subscribe Dec 17-20 (3 days) Sumi Loundon & Others Dharma for Young Adults to the Insight Journal without making a membership contribution, we will Jan 7-9 (Weekend) Andrew Olendzki & Cognitive Science and the Buddhist Understanding of Mind Rajesh Kasturirangan send it to you. The generosity of others will provide what is needed. Jan 14-16 (Weekend) Bill & Susan Morgan Meditation for Psychotherapists Full course descriptions are at www.dharma.org and in the Spring 2004 BCBS program catalog.

Page 18 Spring • Summer 2004 New York Insight

Book Review New York Insight (NYI) was founded as a nonprofit center for the practice of mindful

, JR awareness (vipassana or insight meditation). NYI provides a place where all are welcome to

LEE J. HALFPENNY begin or deepen meditation cause him great anguish, both at home practice based on the liberation and at school. Despite his youthful teachings of the Buddha. folly and humble beginnings, he Programs include evenings with possessed an unshakeable aspiration renowned meditation teachers, to become a well-educated monk who ongoing classes, daylong would not just teach the Dharma, but retreats and weekend courses teach it in English! How this came to pass is the compelling story of Bhante for the integration of meditation Gunaratana’s life. teachings in daily life. Journey to Mindfulness: The events, except where noted, The Autobiography of Bhante G. Time and again, we see that Bhante is are suitable for beginning as undaunted by adversity. His tireless well as experienced meditators. By Bhante energy and unwavering faith reminds NYI welcomes the participation with Jeanne Malmgren us that we too can embody these very of all interested people. Wisdom Publications, 2003 same qualities. From monk’s college in Sri Lanka and ministering the Dharma Due to their revered status and to the Untouchables of India to finally Currently NYI holds its rigorous meditative training, monks to building a monastery in West Virginia, programs at different locations and nuns in the Buddhist tradition are the scope of this book is wide and throughout the city and its often viewed as people who don’t rich in detail. environs. Please see our necessarily struggle as intensely with website www.nyimc.org difficult emotions as the rest of us. Bhante’s inspiring message is that only for descriptions and registration Bhante G, as he is affectionately called, by looking within our own minds are dispels that perception and in doing so, we able to quell the fires of greed, information, or call reveals the intimate truths of his life anger and delusion, enabling us to find (917) 441-0915. with unflinching honesty, humor peace and tranquillity. “My own anger, and warmth. The author of the highly contentiousness, and judgementalness acclaimed best seller Mindfulness in Plain were fertile ground for practice” English, Bhante G never loses sight of is a bold invitation for each of us to the Buddha’s teachings throughout a persevere with diligence and life marked by hardship and despair as steadfastness along the journey to well as great achievement and happiness. mindfulness. With utmost compassion and conviction, Bhante reassures us Bhante G was born into a small village that “no matter how strong they may in Sri Lanka, 77 years ago, the son of be, the sources of suffering can be an impoverished farming family. As a overcome in your life, too!” young boy, he displayed a mischievous and volatile temperament, which was to Reviewed by Marilyn Rothman

Spring • Summer 2004 Page 19 Non-profit Org. U.S. Postage Insight Meditation Society PAID 1230 Pleasant St. Permit No.7 Barre, MA 01005 Ashland, MA

A job 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: Kitchen Manager • Forest Refuge Assistant (For a complete job description see our website www.dharma.org under Job Listings) Please contact: Human Resources Coordinator Phone: (978) 355-4378 ext. 23 Fax: (978) 355-6398 Email: [email protected] PHOTOS: CHRISTINE PICHLKOSTNER, LIBBY VIGEON