Sangha News

In-Person and Online Practice

Sundays and Wednesdays

Join us Sundays from 8 - 9 am and Wednesdays from 7 - 8 pm either in-person at the Center or via Zoom video conferencing for practice and teaching with Michael.

We are studying the 37 Practices of a Bodhisattva during our Wednesday evening practices in-person and online. This is a wonderful exploration of our natural capacity to realize compassion and some of the challenges involved. All are welcome to join at any time. There will be an opportunity to take bodhicitta (bodhisattva) vows this fall.

Click the Zoom Video Link below and enter the password to join our video conferences.

Password: 362919

Zoom Video Link

Such Things Happen...

My root teacher, Khenchen Palden Sherab Rinpoche, had an interesting reply when asked about all the insane things that occur in the world. He said, “Such things happen in samsara.” I find this strangely comforting. Not that I am fond of all the suffering that ensues, but I know that the path I am on is dedicated to helping alleviate that suffering. No use to sit and stew in my emotional responses. This only distracts me from engaging in compassionate action.

Oddly enough, the lyrics to a Bob Dylan song surfaced from my memory bank:

It ain’t no use to sit and wonder why, babe

It don’t matter, anyhow

An’ it ain’t no use to sit and wonder why, babe

If you don’t know by now…

…so get up and do something helpful.

Much Love,

🙏🏼🌎❤️Michael

Dharma Journal Posts

Overcoming Sentient Bias

Tarn and I are overlooking a patch of rare “pitcher plants” (Darlingtonia californica) at a protected area near the Oregon coastline. These plants are also known as “cobra lilies” because of their striking resemblance...

Wildflower Song Book

Michael’s new book is now available for purchase at our Dharma store, Dudleys’s Bookshop and Cafe, and through our website. To order the book, simply visit our donate page, click on “donate,” indicate you want a book, and provide your name and physical address in the designated fields. The cost is $15 in person or $20, including shipping, if you choose to order online.

All proceeds generated from the book will be dedicated to supporting the Natural Mind Dharma Center and its ongoing activities.

The Healing Power of Practice

Amitabha Mantra

For Gioia and all beings in the bardo of the dharmata, and for the benefit of all beings wherever they may be, we are chanting and accumulating the Amitabha Mantra:

OM AMIDEWA HRIH