Refuge of Presence Practice Group
Rob Schmidt and Stuart Goodnick, Tayu meditation teachers
Tuesdays at 7:30 pm except fourth Tuesdays: March 2, 9, 16, 30

The vitality of presence—the quality of undifferentiated attention to experience just as it is, without judgment—doubles as both inherent birthright and profound achievement. It is the foundation of unified, non-dual consciousness. Presence simply is—it cannot be summoned via technique, or enticed into one's life through the cultivation of virtue. Yet we can learn to create conditions where we can move through the obstacles to claiming this simple but powerful birthright. Such conditions are necessary because for most people consciousness is fragmented and scattered. The center of gravity of consciousness skitters about from one brief focus of attention to another, like a hot potato passed from hand to hand. Presence is a refuge from the instability of this ordinary consciousness. In this group we practice creating proper conditions where presence might grow palpable. Join us for discussion of these questions, and for exercises that explore the practical metaphysics of intensifying presence in every moment of existence.

Tayu Sunday Meditation Communion
March 14 and 28 , 10 am - Noon

Meditation, chanting, Satsang discussion, Co-Meditation, Tayu Spirit Dance, followed by communal meal.
Venue: Tayu House near Sebastopol.
Call 707-829-9579 or 707-829-8871, or stop by the store for directions.

Sutra Salon
Jim Wilson, former Buddhist chaplain
4th Tuesdays: March 23, 7:30 pm

A "book club" for the Buddhist Discourses, conducted by Many Rivers manager Jim Wilson. In 2010 the Sutra Salon is focused on reading the Lotus Sutra. The Sutra Salon is not affiliated with any specific Buddhist tradition or school.