Most of us know karma as, basically, the concept that our thoughts and actions have consequences, whether immediately or at some future time. Although that statement captures the basic principle of karma, there is significantly more to karma than that.

Another important teaching is the Four Immeasurables, which can be seen as a solution for creating good karma, leading to liberation. To find our true freedom we need to use our higher capacities as human beings, which help us break free from limitations. Actions that are "clean", and do not create bad karma, help us toward our own and others' liberation.

Our higher capacities allow us to cultivate a mind that frees itself from following past negative karma, gradually breaking those chains. By connecting to one's unlimited mind rather than to the narrow mind, we can help free ourselves and others from painful complications in living.

During and after the presentation we will discuss and practice these principles, and enjoy community.

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The teacher, David B. Alexander, has practiced Zen since 1970, with teachers at the New York Zen Center in the 1970s and 1980s, and most recently has been active at the Zen Mountain Monastery in Mt. Tremper, NY. He has been encouraged to share his knowledge by two leading Zen masters in New York City, and has also been practicing and teaching Tai Chi Chuan, a mind / body practice, since 1978. David is an active psychotherapist using gestalt therapy and nonviolent communication (NVC) in his work with individuals, couples, and business leaders.

The webinar meeting will take place online via Zoom. The webinar can be joined via ordinary phone, but for a full experience use of a computer will allow observing other attendees and those who are speaking.

Join me for an online, interactive introduction to Zen and Buddhism: the Middle Way, Four Noble Truths, Eightfold Path, and Three Treasures. We will also discuss how to integrate the wisdom and energy of Zen and Buddhism into modern life. There is no fee for this event.

The lotus flower rises invisibly through mud and muddy water, and opens up pure and clean despite its history and surroundings. If we can keep on the right path while in the middle of activity and challenges, we can finally drop struggles of the past and live a life of true freedom and compassion.

The topics include a basic short history of Buddhism, primary principles, the impact of Zen, and integration with modern life.

The principles and concepts that are covered are:

The Middle Way: a crucial piece of understanding for maintaining one's balance and staying on a healthy and effective path towards self-knowledge.

The Four Noble Truths: these address the root meaning of Buddhism: an understanding that life not lived well is ultimately full of inadequacy and pain, but that with a right understanding and effort, we move towards being free of suffering, while helping life on this planet be more humane and awakened.

The Eightfold Path: addresses in a specific manner the key components for living the best possible life, a life that benefits self and others, that reduces suffering, and that leads to liberation.

The Three Treasures: concerns the elements that support following the path towards awakening and liberation.

We will also examine the direct expression used in Zen and how it captures the emotion and wisdom of life without using religious references, and will talk about how to see Zen and Buddhism as a modern teaching.

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Here are some testimonials from past presentations (not necessarily about Zen):

“I thought the the webinar was outstanding. Although I have some familiarity with the concepts of nonviolent communication, I felt that the webinar greatly expanded my knowledge in this area and gave me useful information and techniques that I can apply to improve my relationships with my family and friends.” ~ Ken Z.

“The amount of information was terrific, dialogue was great. I wouldn't change anything. I thought meeting everyone was wonderful and having the dialogue. I am interested in attending more webinars.” ~ Karen C.

“Perfect. Very Comfortable interaction. A professional presentation. I liked listening to your personal experiences and those of others.” ~ Michele F.

"I was impressed that people actually felt comfortable enough to share incidents / issues from their own lives. Suggests they felt comfortable with you." ~ Mary Ann H.

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The teacher, David B. Alexander, has practiced Zen since 1970, with teachers at the New York Zen Center in the 1970s and 1980s, and most recently has been active at the Zen Mountain Monastery in Mt. Tremper, NY. He has been encouraged to share his knowledge by two leading Zen masters in New York City, and has also been practicing and teaching Tai Chi Chuan, a mind / body practice, since 1978. David is an active psychotherapist using gestalt therapy and nonviolent communication (NVC) in his work with individuals, couples, and business leaders.

Note: if any attendee does not wish to join in the discussion after the presentation, but prefers to observe and absorb, that preference will be respected.

The webinar meeting will take place online via Zoom. The webinar can be joined via ordinary phone, but for a full experience use of a computer will allow observing other attendees and those who are speaking.