"Engagement without Entanglement:

Facing the Election with the Wisdom of the Dharma"

By CIMC Guiding Teacher Narayan Helen Liebenson

A recent study by the American Psychiatric Association reported that 73% of Americans sampled are experiencing anxiety, fear, and helplessness about the upcoming election. Perhaps you are feeling similarly. It is very hard not to be deeply concerned, given that the stakes seem so high. The depth of the feeling points to the depth of our caring. How are we to practice with such a situation? In stressful times we commonly react by fighting, fleeing, or freezing.

When we engage beyond our capacities to stay calm and equanimous under stressful circumstances, we find ourselves fighting in an unhelpful way. Fighting – active resistance or “good trouble,” as John Lewis described it - can clearly be constructive but inner and outer raging is costly to ourselves and those around us. Caring for one’s anger by responding to it with care and understanding is crucial.

What does it mean to flee? One way is to avoid the news. I am sympathetic to the approach of limiting one’s exposure to protect one’s sanity. The news can be so repetitive that it can certainly be wise to take a news fast for a particular period. The nonstop availability of news can be addictive as some of us know all too well. But to avoid the news entirely, other than taking intentional breaks, is disconnecting.

To avoid repetitive negative conversations which are exhausting and not illuminating is surely wise avoidance. Because it can be overwhelming, tiring, and painful to engage in such conversations, the option to check out is certainly tempting. But to habitually flee from learning how to speak when the subject is difficult is disconnecting too.

Another study surveying Americans’ emotional states regarding the upcoming election found that those who are checked out and thus not experiencing at least some degree of concern about the upcoming election, who are trying to stay above the fray, are also not as engaged in beneficial actions. In other words, if you take a narrow approach and decide to just tend to your own emotions, you won’t be as connected to those around you.

To freeze is to not know what to do, to not know where to turn for relief. One can be addicted to the news but paralyzed and not able to shift into action. If we can keep in mind that we don’t have control over the outcome of much of anything, including the election, we will be able to act wholeheartedly, guided by wisdom, but without as much attachment.

If we over-engage, we are racked with anxiety and rage. If we check out, we lose our connection with humanity and neglect compassion. I say this not to provoke guilt but to invite a different approach. Responsibility can feel very weighty. Let’s practice responsiveness instead, responding to the conditions we are facing with grace, buoyancy, and courage.

We might even make light of politics to try to stay above the fray. In a recent casual conversation about the election, someone told me they preferred one candidate because they are more entertaining than the other. This is an unfortunate way to view the election. Politics is not a game; it affects people’s lives in profound ways.

An age-old question in spiritual communities is, does one focus outwardly on healing the world or first address the torments within? The answer isn’t one or the other. We can do both and are always actually doing both, just by living an engaged daily life in which the precepts of wisdom and compassion are being enacted.

Collective action is an alternative to checking out, and an effective way of alleviating feelings of dread, anxiety, anger and despair. I will include some suggestions for how to engage below; of course there are many. Whatever we do collectively, if aligned with our heartfelt values and principles, alleviates anxiety without requiring us to disconnect. Collective action alleviates loneliness and helplessness and is a way to empower oneself and help others.

Political divisions In this troubled period of history are breaking apart families, breaking up friendships and dividing faith communities. As challenging as it is, we need to bring our understanding and practice into these complicated times.

We participate as we can, not with grandiose notions of saving the world but engaging in this world that we share. There is an African saying: “happy to care, happy to share, one another’s burdens, that’s why we’re here.” To my beloved CIMC community: please stay close. Please continue to keep your daily sitting practice going. And please take care of yourself and know that you are loved. And finally: please do vote.

Here are ways to engage:

• Vote.org: For everything you need to vote.
• Guides.vote: For nonpartisan information about candidates and issues.
• Braver Angels: Cross-partisan movement to bridge the partisan divide and strengthen democracy.
• MA Secretary of State Elections Division: to register to vote, update your voter registration, check your voter registration status, view a sample ballot, vote early/absentee/by mail, and find when and where to vote.

Executive Director Update

Dear CIMC Community Member,

As we end our summer break at CIMC we are looking forward to September programs. Please consider the first one to start next month:

•  Sixteen Steps to Awakening, an in-person mid-day practice group with Jim Austin starting on September 11.

And great programs for those new to meditation:

• Beginners Insight Meditation Workshop, an in-person workshop with Madeline Klyne on September 14.
• The Way of Awareness, an in-person evening practice group with Madeline Klyne starting September 12.

I would also like to encourage you to join us for two benefit opportunities in November:

• Question and Response with Joseph: An Afternoon with Joseph Goldstein, A Benefit for Ongoing Programming at CIMC, Sunday, November 3, 2:00 – 5:00 PM (in-person), 2:00 – 4:00 PM ET (online)

• The Power of Mindful Self-Compassion: A CIMC Benefit Workshop with Chris Germer, Saturday, November 23, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET

Starting October 1, we will return to offering an opportunity for generosity for all our drop-in programs such as the Beginners Drop-In, Wednesday Evening Dharma, affinity groups and others. Prior to the start of hybrid programming during the pandemic, we asked for a suggested donation for all programs. We will soon be starting this again for online and in person programs. Thank you in advance for your support.

I also want to express my gratitude that the 2025 programs are now up on our website. Please consider signing up for one in advance of the upcoming new year.

With kind regards and well wishes, 

Update on Larry

We are pleased to provide this follow up to news we shared in May, about our beloved founding guiding teacher, Larry Rosenberg. 

In our newsletter, we explained that last autumn, Larry fell, broke his hip, and needed surgery. Recovering from this injury and aging in general has required extensive at home care needs.

Although CIMC has long provided different kinds of support for Larry, the Center’s nonprofit structure does not permit us to cover home healthcare. As a result, a small team of Larry’s devoted students/friends came together to support Larry. We are very impressed with their commitment and care. Since our last newsletter article, CIMC completed a renovation to make Larry and Galina’s condo more accessible. Larry says, “Galina and I are very happy with the changes, the bathroom is beautifully and intelligently constructed.”

With his mind as clear as ever, Larry wants "everyone to know the depth of gratitude I have for the incredible expression of love that’s come from so much support in our community — this beautiful sangha, that means so much to me."

Larry Rosenberg teaching at the Center 10 years ago.

His gratitude extends as well, to the central role the Dharma continues to play in his life, as he faces the infirmities and disabilities of aging. 

“In the midst of all the problems, Galina’s maladies and my afflictions, I’ve been able to find great joy and peace in the midst of the suffering I see… I don’t know how people age without the Dharma.”

And as he and Galina recuperated from Covid, not long ago, he added, “Thankfully, we are recovering. And my dharma practice has been fundamental in helping to get through it. In addition to all the financial support people have been offering – that literally has been lifesaving – I invite everyone in our sangha to continue their practice – to continue to practice with me.”

To send an email to ask how you can help please use the following email address rather than the CIMC office one: helplarryrosenberg@gmail.com.

I am happy to share these heartfelt thoughts from Larry and let you know about the team supporting him – as we send him our enduring love and wishes for better health.

Kindest regards,

Cindy

Sign Up for 2025 Programs

The CIMC staff is excited to announce that the 2025 programs have been uploaded and you can now sign up for our diverse offering of intentionally planned programs. See all the programs you can look forward to and register for below.

CIMC is Hiring a Director of Development

Join our staff team! This new position will play a crucial role in advancing the mission of CIMC by leading fundraising and development activities. Click here for more information and please share with friends and family.

Sixteen Steps to Awakening: Introduction to Mindfulness of Breathing

In-Person Practice Group with Jim Austin

Wednesdays: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM

September 11 – October 30

The Ānāpānasati Sutta is one of the most important suttas in the Pali Canon of early Buddhism. In this foundational teaching, the Buddha lays out a comprehensive series of sixteen sequential steps for using full awareness of breathing as a complete path to liberation.

This sutta has been understood in many ways by different teachers. In this course, we will draw primarily on interpretations from CIMC founding teacher Larry Rosenberg, Thich Nhat Hanh, Ṭhānissaro Bikkhu, Buddhadāsa Bhikku, and Bhikkhu Anālayo to deepen our understanding of the teachings. We will actively explore each of the sixteen steps, experiencing how they can form the core of a rich and fruitful daily practice and support our progress on the path toward happiness and inner freedom.

This program is appropriate for both new and experienced meditators of all levels of experience. Each session will include formal meditation practices based on the sutta, teaching, time for discussion, reflections, and questions. Practice and homework between sessions are essential to this group. Everyone is welcome.

Full and partial scholarships are available up to 72 hours before the start of the program. 

The Way of Awareness: An Introduction to Insight Meditation

In-Person Practice Group with Madeline Klyne

Thursdays: 6:45 – 8:30 PM

September 12 – October 17

This Practice Group offers a gradual and systematic introduction to the practice of Insight Meditation (Vipassana) and to the teachings of the Buddha that inform this practice. Emphasis is placed on the formal practices of sitting and walking meditation as well as developing mindfulness in daily life.

Over the course of five weeks, participants will explore mindfulness of the body and of breathing, followed by mindfulness of emotions and thinking. Specific techniques and troubleshooting guidance will be offered for how to bring your mindfulness practice off the cushion into all the activities of each day: eating, traveling, communicating with others, and so much more. We will practice cultivating kindness and ease.

The course is structured to help participants learn how to establish, sustain, or refresh a daily meditation practice. Each meeting will include guided meditation instructions, teachings, and Q&A.

“The Way of Awareness” is designed for beginners and is also appropriate for those with meditation experience who would like to revisit or refresh the basics of Insight Meditation and/or deepen their practice. Everyone is welcome.

Full and partial scholarships are available up to 72 hours before the start of the program. 

Beginners Insight Meditation Workshop

In-Person Workshop with Madeline Klyne

Saturday, September 14: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Our Beginners’ Workshop includes formal meditation instruction, guided sitting and walking practice, and group discussion as we explore the basics of Insight Meditation (vipassana).

During our time together, participants will learn how to meditate along with others who are in the beginning stages of practice. Guidance will be offered on how to establish, sustain, or refresh a daily meditation practice. There will be ample opportunity to ask questions.

This day-long program is appropriate for people who have little or no meditation experience, for those who are relatively new to Insight Meditation, and for anyone who would like to revisit the basics of meditation and deepen their practice. Everyone is welcome.

Full and partial scholarships are available up to 72 hours before the start of the program.

As men, when we look closely at ourselves and how we are in the world, our place in the patriarchal landscape can begin to become clear. An essential part of our Dharma practice is seeing clearly into and coming to terms with this particular form of suffering. We explore, we ask ourselves, “How do we stop inadvertently causing harm in this world?” In our Dharma practice, we also explore the unique gifts that we, as men, can bring to this world. How can the energy of unconscious patriarchy and male privilege be transformed and used to support, inspire, love, and connect?

This retreat invites people across the gender spectrum who identify as men to spend a day together practicing, sharing wisdom, and offering mutual support. We will use meditation, contemplative inquiry, and the teaching of the Dharma to strengthen compassion, sharpen investigation, and build community. The schedule will include several periods of silent sitting meditation and walking meditation to support this exploration.

Full and partial scholarships are available up to 72 hours before the start of the program.

The Magnanimous Heart: Loss and Grief, Love and Compassion, Joy and Liberation

Hybrid Retreat with Narayan Helen Liebenson

Saturday, September 28 & Sunday, September 29

10:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET

This weekend retreat will be dedicated to the ancient forms of sitting and walking meditation, within the silence, simplicity, and beauty of the time-honored retreat environment.

The teaching on this retreat will focus on the theme of a magnanimous heart, which implies a heart and mind of spaciousness and buoyancy. Various teachings and perspectives will be introduced and practiced in relationship to the subjects of loss, grief, joy, and liberation.

Saturday morning will be focused on teachings having to do with loss and the “Five Recollections” taught by the Buddha. Saturday afternoon, practicing with difficult emotions will be introduced, with an emphasis on metta and compassion. On Sunday morning, teachings having to do with joy and its cultivation will be emphasized, and on Sunday afternoon, principles and practices leading to liberation will be introduced and practiced.

This program is appropriate for both new and experienced meditators and will include guided meditation periods, talks, and time for discussion and questions. Throughout our days together, we will form a spiritual community that will support your practice. Everyone is welcome.

Full and partial scholarships are available up to 72 hours before the start of the program.

Dharma in Daily Life: Online Drop-In with Narayan Helen Liebenson

Weekdays: 8:45 – 9:00 AM ET

There will be no Dharma in Daily Life on Monday, September 2nd.

(Passcode: cimc)

Or call +1 (646) 876-9923 and enter the Meeting ID 913 2860 9474.

Daily Evening Sits: In-Person Drop-In with Volunteer Practice Leaders

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 6:00 – 6:45 PM

There will be no Daily Evening Sit on Monday, September 2nd.

Please see our online program calendar for up-to-date information.

Beginners Drop-In Online and Hybrid Drop-In

Tuesdays, September 3, 10, 17, 24: 6:00 – 7:00 PM ET

(Passcode: cimc)

Or call +1 (646) 876-9923 and enter the Meeting ID 928 8680 3138

September 3: Online with Betty Burkes

September 10: Hybrid with Jim Austin

September 17: Online with Madeline Klyne

September 24: Hybrid with Jim Austin

Beginners Tea In-Person Drop-In with Jim Austin

Tuesday, September 10: 7:00 – 7:45 PM

Wednesday Evening Dharma Program Online and Hybrid Drop-In

Wednesdays September 4, 11, 18, 25

Meditation Practice: 6:30 – 7:15 PM ET

Mindful Break: 7:15 – 7:30 PM ET

Dharma Talk and Q&A: 7:30 – 8:45 PM ET

September 4: George Mumford – The Way of Wisdom (hybrid)

September 11: Gulluo Singh – A Calm Abiding in the Here and Now: Finding Ease in the Midst of a World on Fire (online)

September 18: Mark Nunberg – How the Attitude of Lovingkindness can Support and Deepen Our Insight Practice (online)

September 25: Matthew Hepburn – Questions on Practice (hybrid)

Thursday Morning Retreat In-Person Drop-In

Thursdays, September 5, 12, 19, 26: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

People of Color Sangha Hybrid

with Gina LaRoche, Melanie Cherng and Juan Sosa

Friday, September 6: 6:30 – 8:00 PM ET

35 & Under Extended Practice Session In-Person Drop-In

with Melanie Cherng and Alex Baskin

Sunday September 8: 1:00 – 4:00 PM

35 & Under Sangha In-Person Drop-In

Sundays, 7:00 – 8:15 PM

September 8: with a Practice Leader

September 22: with Alex Baskin

Sunday Afternoon Extended Practice In-Person Drop-In

with Volunteer Practice Leaders

Sundays, September 8,15: 2:00 – 5:15 PM

Elders Sangha Online/In-Person Drop-In

Tuesdays: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM ET

September 10: Online with Kate Beers

September 24: In-Person with Bert Seager

Parents Sangha Online Drop-In with Jim Austin

Thursday, September 12: 8:00 – 9:15 PM ET

(Passcode: cimc)

Or call +1 (646) 876-9923 and enter the Meeting ID 987 8139 8893.

Disability & Chronic Illness Sangha Online Drop-In with Reya Stevens

Sunday, September 15: 5:30 – 7:00 PM ET

Teatime Dharma In-Person Drop-In with Madeline Klyne

Mondays, September 16, 23: 4:00 – 5:30 PM

Sitting & Sangha In-Person Drop-In with Madeline Klyne

Mondays, September 16, 23: 6:00 – 7:15 PM

LGBTQIA+ Sangha Online Drop-In with Madeline Klyne

Friday, September 20: 7:00 – 8:30 PM ET

Save the Date: CIMC October Open House

Sunday, October 6: 1:00 – 4:00 PM

Please join us at CIMC for a Sunday afternoon Open House!

The Open House will be a time to drop by the Center and chat with staff and community members, and if you are new to the Center, get a tour of the building. We welcome you to bring a friend or two and join us for this opportunity to learn about the CIMC community, practicing at the Center, and the programs we offer.

You are welcome to stop by any time. Snacks and beverages will be provided. Our doors will be open at 1:00 pm and if the weather is nice, we can gather in our beautiful garden as well as indoors. This event is freely offered, and an RSVP to help our planning is optional.