Soul of Presence Practice Group
Rob Schmidt and Stuart Goodnick, Tayu meditation teachers
Tuesdays at 7:30 pm except fourth Tuesdays: July 7, 14, 21

Various traditions and teachers describe the "soul" differently, but none point to something palpable. Can the soul be something more than a pious but empty tale? How might one confirm the existence and characteristics of the soul through direct personal investigation? Perhaps we begin with only the "blueprint" for a soul, as Gurdjieff famously asserted, and must create a soul through right-directed intentional effort. Such efforts would be required because the condition of consciousness for most people 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. In such a condition, it is well-nigh impossible for consciousness to settle into a stable center of gravity, where a soul might actually coalesce. In this group we consider how to create proper conditions where the soul might grow palpable. Join us for discussion of these questions, and for exercises that explore the practical metaphysics of increasing gravity to the source of the soul.

Tayu Sunday Meditation Communion
July 26, 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: July 28, 7:30 pm

A "book club" for the Buddhist Discourses, conducted by Many Rivers manager Jim Wilson. In 2009 the Sutra Salon will focus on the Avatamsaka (Flower Ornament Scripture) Sutra. The Sutra Salon is not affiliated with any specific Buddhist tradition or school.