Community of Interbeing: National Dharma Discussion Day
Theme: Our experience of being socially engaged
Date: Saturday 25th February 2006
Time: 10:30 AM - 5PM
Venue: The Birmingham & Midland Institute (BMI), Margaret Street.
Thich Nhat Hanh is one of the founders of "socially engaged Buddhism". He often suggests we use the teachings and practice to transform our families, neighbourhoods, workplaces and society. It is proposed to begin a national Dharma Discussion in the UK on the subject of Engaged Practice. We have learned something of how to make peace in ourselves, so how are we trying, as individuals or sanghas, to make peace in our world? All compassionate actions that relieve suffering and conflict might be included.
An event will be held in February where we can come together to consider questions such as the following:
What activity are you, or have you been engaged in to bring the benefits of the teachings and practice to changing situations of suffering, lack of communication or conflict? How? With whom?
What would help you to do this more, or better?
What other activities would you like to see develop, or what needs are you aware of?
John Newson (True Faith in the Path) writes:
Thanks for all the email and phone responses from people who clearly have a lot to share of their experiences and insights from becoming socially engaged in their family, workplace, local community or with people far away. The Day is part of an ongoing discussion that belongs to the whole sangha.
The practice is dharma discussion - we share through mindful speaking and deep listening. We focus on what we know from experience rather than what we have read or heard through the media. We have the benefit of doing this in a sangha context, with the support of other practioners. Our aim is to water our seeds of love and understanding (rather than comparing or criticising).
How rare and precious is this opportunity !
An outline of the day is being prepared and will be sent out soon.
Please send any suggestions about topics, themes, or practices that could be included to john.newson@interbeing.org.uk
Getting there : The Birmingham & Midland Institute (BMI), Margaret Street is behind the Birmingham Council House and Museum & Art Gallery, which front onto Victoria Square. The BMI is 10 minutes walk from Snow Hill Station and 5 minutes from New Street station (from arrival platform use exit to Victoria Square). Parking is possible but not easy on Saturday morning.
Transport options available at Transport Direct http://www.transportdirect.info
Lunch: Own food is not allowed at this venue. We will order vegetarian snack lunches at a small cost and eat together.
Room Hire: Donations towards room hire are very welcome, if you can afford it. But please do not let this consideration put you off coming!
This is the official website of the Community of Interbeing
(Reg. Charity No:1096680; Reg. Company No:4623280)
The UK organisation which supports the practice of mindfulness as taught
by Thich Nhat Hanh
