Awake in the World | Course Two

Steady on the Path:
The Middle of the Journey; Chapters 4-6
of Shantideva’s Bodhicaryavatara
Sundays | July 5, 12, 19
10 AM - 12 PM Pacific
Online Only
Led by Susan Shannon

May the precious bodhicitta (chap.1-3)
(How to generate bodhicitta)
Arise where it has not arisen (chap.4-6)
(How to prevent bodhicitta from decreasing)
and where it has arisen, never subside (chap 7-9)
how to make bodhicitta increase
But increase more and more (chap. 10)
dedication

Welcome everyone to this meaningful opportunity to deepen our studies of Shantideva’s road map to Awakening, The Bodhicaryavatara as we explore chapters 4, 5 and 6.

These chapters are the gravitas of the text, where Shantideva gives us the timeless tools that can allow light to shine through even the most challenging of times. They offer us a new way of relating to the Paramitas of Generosity, (chap 4), Discipline, (chap 5) and Patience aka Forbearance. (chap. 6)

We will spend the first session talking about chapters 4 and 5, and the second and third session on Chapter Six, the “Biggie” of this text. His Holiness the Dalai Lama has stated that this chapter contains all the teachings of Buddhism! Shantideva presents the practice of this paramita of patience in a way that extends it through lifetimes. We learn many more manifestations of patience through viewing some of the most challenging situation’s life produces. Shantideva addresses anger, hatred, suffering, and how to cultivate virtue when those qualities arise. We will explore how to reframe negativity into a positive light and be gracious, even happy, that challenges have arisen, as they give us a chance to skillfully apply the transformational tools the dharma provides, regardless of the outer causes and conditions. In doing so, negativity can come to fruition into an awakened heart, embracing, even deepening our experience of interconnection and healing.

We will hold lightly through our studies what is known as “The Six Excellent Features” which ensures that the quality of our everyday actions will be transformed. Such a promise! Each session will include lecture, group time, and suggested homework study and practice materials.

Fees:
$120 (series fee)
$150 (series fee + support)
$90 (Sukhasiddhi Members)

The deadline to register is Friday, July 3 at 12 PM (Pacific).

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MEET THE TEACHER

Susan Shannon, M. Div. is a seeker, teacher, earth and animal steward, and devotee of the heart. She has worked in the fields of Emotional Literacy and Restorative Justice for over 20 years, incorporating over 45 years of Buddhist practice and study from the Tibetan tradition. She’s worked with various diverse populations all her life including inmates, Tibetan refugees, the homeless, the differently-abled, at-risk youth, and has served as the Buddhist Chaplain to the men in San Quentin State Prison and Death Row. She currently resides in the San Juan Islands where she writes, provides spiritual coaching and tends her land.