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

Another teaching is the Four Immeasurables. To find our true freedom, we want to use our higher capacities as human beings, which help us break free from limitations. Actions that are "clean", and do not create 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.

Join me for an 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.

The lotus flower rises invisibly through the mud and muddy water, and opens up pure and clean despite its history and surroundings. If we can keep on the right path 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 (see below), 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.

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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.