2009 December Announcements

2009 November Announcements Dae Yen Sa International Buddhist Temple and Meditation Center The vast array of complexity and beauty found in nature is impossible to quantify. No snowflake is exactly like another. Contents: 1. Upcoming Events 2. Dharma School Series 3. Buddha Thought 4. Volunteer! 5. Saturday Schedule Reminder 6. Dae Yen Sa Video Upcoming Events Candlelight Walking Meditation Evening Candlelight Walking Meditation and Chanting for an End to Violence is planned as an evening of mindful walking and chanting for peace within us and within the world. This evening service will take place in the Main Hall that will be lit by (battery operated) candles. As part of the service we are asking Sangha members, friends and guests to offer a short written or impromptu prayer for peace. This special evening promises to be beautiful and powerful. We will keep you posted on specific date. Nonviolent Communication Workshop Scheduled for January 18, 2010, 6:30 - 9:30 PM in celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.. Snow date is January 19, 2010. Teachings presented with guest NVC teacher Joe Brummer! Joe spent years exploring why people commit acts of violence against others. He studied nonviolence, conflict resolution and worked with the Institute for Study and Practice of Nonviolence to bring teaching to schools, and serves on the Community Mediation Center of Rhode Islands Juvenile Restorative Justice Advisory Board. He has recently attended International Intensive Training on Nonviolent Communication. Joe is the Connecticut representative for New England NVC. Visit the link http://www.cnvc.org for more information on the course. In this course you will learn how to: Express yourself in ways that can be heard. Truly hear what others are expressing regardless of the words used. Connect with the universal needs driving all human behavior. Express gratitude without the use of praise and moral judgements. Use language as a tool of connection rather than control. This important course is free to the general public. The Dharma School Series Chanting & Meditation 7 pm - 7:30 pm Dae Yen Sa Dharma School & Tea 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm We welcome individuals of all paths and understandings to participate in weekly gatherings consisting of meditation, meditative reading and review along with group reflection on Buddhist principles and practices or Dharma. The only requirement is an open mind and open heart. Study Topic for Wednesday 12/02/09: The Dhammapada, Chapter 8 - Thousands For those with Books please read Chapter 8: Thousands For those without books please read Chapter 8: Thousands Did you ever find yourself working really, really hard to master something? Trying with all your might to know everything about a subject, situation, or relationship. Did you, or do you find yourself pouring over books and texts trying to know all there is to know in order to gather a thousand jewels of wisdom? What if instead you were to let go of the striving, what would this feel like? In the chapter called thousands the Buddha reminds us that is not necessarily more knowledge that is needed for an enlightened life, but rather only essential knowledge. He goes on to say that not even the most fervent recitations are as effective as one simple mantra recited with love and compassion. On the path of liberation, grand gestures are not wrong, but paradoxically, may not be needed in order to touch the truth. We can read a thousand stories about kindness and even chant one thousand om mani padme hums, but we all know to our core the power of giving a simple cup of cold water to a thirsty brother or sister. The Buddha challenges us to activate this essential wisdom in the present moment. Right now is the time for love, not tomorrow. In the end, no one can teach us about love for we have the seed of enlightenment and deep compassion within us. Be the master of yourself. Study and meditate, but remember to focus on the essential. The path to enlightenment is by no means simplistic, yet there are simple truths — that we are all connected, that we all suffer, that we all feel pain and fear, that we all seek relief and compassion through awareness and truth. Namu. Nobody is condemned in Buddhism, for greatness is latent even in the seemingly lowliest, just as lotuses spring from muddy ponds. Invite someone new to experience the warmth of the sangha. Buddha Thought Artificial Intelligence Koans that represent jokes told about noted hackers* told at MIT years ago. A novice was trying to fix a broken Lisp machine by turning the power off and on. Knight, seeing what the student was doing spoke sternly: "You can not fix a machine by just power-cycling it with no understanding of what is going wrong." Knight turned the machine off and on. The machine worked. One day a student came to Moon and said, "I understand how to make a better garbage collector. We must keep a reference count of the pointers to each of the cans." Moon patiently told the student the following story: "One day a student came to Moon and said, "I understand how to make a better garbage collector... In the days when Sussman was a novice Minsky once came to him as he sat hacking at the PDP-6. "What are you doing?", asked Minsky. "I am training a randomly wired neural net to play Tic-Tac-Toe." "Why is the net wired randomly?", asked Minsky. "I do not want it to have any preconceptions of how to play." Minsky shut his eyes. "Why do you close your eyes?", Sussman asked his teacher. "So the room will be empty." At that moment, Sussman was enlightened. A student, in hopes of understanding the Lambda-nature, came to Greenblatt. As they spoke a Multics system hacker walked by. "Is it true," asked the student, "that PL-1 has many of the same data types as Lisp?" Almost before the student had finished his question, Greenblatt shouted, "FOO!", and hit the student with a stick. A disciple of another sect once came to Drescher as he was eating his morning meal. "I would like to give you this personality test," said the outsider, "because I want you to be happy." Drescher took the paper that was offered him and put it into the toaster: "I wish the toaster to be happy, too." A man from AI walked across the mountains to SAIL to see the Master, Knuth. When he arrived, the Master was nowhere to be found. "Where is the wise one named Knuth?", he asked a passing student. "Ah," said the student, "you have not heard. He has gone on a pilgrimage across the mountains to the temple of AI to seek out new disciples." Hearing this, the man was Enlightened. A famous Lisp Hacker noticed an Undergraduate sitting in front of a Xerox 1108, trying to edit a complex Klone network via a browser. Wanting to help, the Hacker clicked one of the nodes in the network with the mouse, and asked "what do you see?" Very earnestly, the Undergraduate replied "I see a cursor." The Hacker then quickly pressed the boot toggle at the back of the keyboard, while simultaneously hitting the Undergraduate over the head with a thick Interlisp Manual. The Undergraduate was then Enlightened. Classic Buddhist AI Koans from A LIGHTER SIDE OF BUDDHISM found on the net. *Hacker is a term of accomplishment in programming and they would use the term cracker for someone who illegally cracks code, etc. Volunteer Requests Assistance with preparation for special events, weekends and teaching nights is always greatly appreciated. This includes assistance in the kitchen, setting up, taking down and any other donation of talent or effort that can assist the temple. You are always greatly appreciated! The temple does have some special requests from time to time as well. Sati Meditation Recently, a small group from Dae Yen Sa enjoyed a field trip to Chuang Yen Temple in Carmel, NY. We participated in a retreat day, where we learned a new form of meditation practice called Sati. In Sati Meditation the practitioner uses mindful movements of the hands to bring about greater awareness.This practice was introduced by Luangpor Teean Jittasubho (1911-1988) of Thailand and taught to us by Dr. Dwight Chien. It is our intention to make Sati meditation sessions available at DaeYen Sa. If any member who participated in our Sati retreat in NY is interested in leading Sati meditation please see Eduardo. For those wishing to experience the Sati retreat day at Chuang Yen, the next session is December 12, 2009. Calling all TV Techies! The temple is seeking a volunteer(s) to help us find or purchase a big screen TV for the Main Temple that we could also connect to a computer. There are so many great teachings and wisdom available in multimedia now that would add to study experiences. In addition the temple is considering offering occasional "movie nights" for families. Maybe our first Movie night could be "MULAN" in honor of dear little Sasha! Of course, we are also seeking donations for the purchase of the TV, or, of a TV itself. Thank you in advance for your kindness in achieving this goal for the benefit of the sangha. Please see Su Yen Sunim to help with this endeavor. Lending Library The East gives us thousands upon thousands of Buddhist sacred texts. And here in the West we have access to many books and articles from teachers like Jack Kornfield, Pema Chodron and other well-known teachers. It is our goal to begin a small lending library of Buddhist texts that would be open to Sangha members. The idea has been approved by Su Yen Sunim and Master, so we'll keep you posted on the logistics. In the meantime consider donating your books of wisdom to the temple. Make it a practice in letting go! Talks and Workshops While we have the Wisdom of the Triple Gem we also recognize the network of members and friends with wisdom to share with Dae Yen Sa. If you, or anyone you know, has an interest in presenting a workshop/lecture/training that is relevant and appropriate to Buddhist principles and practice, please speak with Eduardo. At present, the Temple does not have funds for lecturers. Any presentation would be considered a donation would be very much appreciated. Thank you in advance. SPECIAL MENTION! Nirvana Juice Bar, Torrington One of our Sangha members, Rosie, invites us to visit her juice bar in Downtown Torrington. Rosie offers many wonderful health and energy drinks and foods as well as aromatic incenses and products sangha members would appreciate. In addition Rosie hosts guest lectures and open mike nights. Visit her website for more information and then visit her store for some "chill" time. http://nirvanahealthbar.com/ Nirvana is a healthy, fun and informative place to visit! Saturday Temple Regular Schedule: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM Yoga 10:00 AM to 10:20 AM Tea Break 10:20 AM to 11:00 AM Silent Meditation 11:00 AM to 11:10 AM Walking Meditation 11:10 AM to 11:30 AM Chanting 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM Korean Vegetarian Lunch The first Saturday of each month, Dae Yen Sa has a retreat day with a revised schedule. Call or contact the temple for the schedule and activities for that day. Chanting with Prayer Beads and Moktok Sue Yen Sunim of Dae Yen Sa International Buddhist Temple and Meditation Center leading the Om Mani Padme Hum chant using the moktok and prayer beads at the same time. 19 Kinsey Road New Hartford, CT 06057 Telephone: (860) 489-3254 Cell: (860) 459-6255 Fax: (860) 489-5760 Donations greatly appreciated! VISIT DAE YEN SA ON FACEBOOK!

2009 November Announcements

2009 November Announcements Dae Yen Sa International Buddhist Temple and Meditation Center Wisdom of fresh, whole foods. Contents: 1. Upcoming Events 2. Dharma School Series 3. Buddha Thought 4. Volunteer! 5. Saturday Schedule Reminder 6. Dae Yen Sa Video Upcoming Events Candlelight Walking Meditation Evening Candlelight Walking Meditation and Chanting for an End to Violence ---In November, we will be planning an evening of mindful walking and chanting for peace within us and within the world. This evening service will take place in the Main Hall that will be lit by (battery operated) candles. As part of the service we are asking Sangha members, friends and guests to offer a short written or impromptu prayer for peace. This special evening promises to be beautiful and powerful. We will keep you posted on specific date. Nonviolent Communication Workshop Sangha members Aaron Doyle and Eduardo Barrios are working on scheduling a non-violent communication workshop in the coming months. See more info at http://www.cnvc.org and stay tuned for more information in the future! The Dharma School Series Chanting & Meditation 7 pm - 7:30 pm Dae Yen Sa Dharma School & Tea 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm We welcome individuals of all paths and understandings to participate in weekly gatherings consisting of meditation, meditative reading and review along with group reflection on Buddhist principles and practices or Dharma. The only requirement is an open mind and open heart. Study Topic for Wednesday 11/25/09: The Dhammapada, Chapter 7 - The Worthy. For those with Books please read Chapter 7: The Worthy For those without books please read Chapter 7: The Worthy This this translation chapter 7 is entitled The Worthy. In other translations the title varies, as in, The Arahant (In early Buddhist scriptures, the word arahant refers to an enlightened being. ), for example, or The Saint. At Dae Yen Sa Temple we have a beautiful mural of the Buddhist Saints from the Korean tradition. At first one notices the brilliant colors and gold leaf that shines out to the viewer. Then, upon more careful observance we begin to see a myriad of people, in all different shapes, sizes, colors and moods. At this point I have a confession to make. Once while in a 2-hour Korean liturgy at the temple, I made the mistake at looking over at the mural only to see the contorted face of one of those saints staring me down! At once it struck me as being incredibly hilarious — it was all I could do not to break up laughing! It was like getting the giggles in church, and biting the bottom of my lip was the only thing that got me through! The point is, arahants and saints come in all shapes and sizes. Saints were, and are, people like us — with feelings and emotions, as depicted in our mural. They are worthy of our respect because they commit their lives to the proactice of mindfulness, renunciation, loving detatchment in order to transcend the cycle of samsara and allow more peace and compassion to blossom. But the job of enlightenment does not rest solely on these. Each one of us is called to a life of Sainthood, or Arahanship. That's because we know that the seed of enlightenment is within us. Each of us has experienced movements from illusion to truth in our hearts and minds. Transformation means moving forward in wisdom, like birds that leave no trace of their tracks in the sky. Namu and Happy Thanksgiving! Nobody is condemned in Buddhism, for greatness is latent even in the seemingly lowliest, just as lotuses spring from muddy ponds. Invite someone new to experience the warmth of the sangha. Buddha Thought There's this wonderful story about the first meeting between Kalu Rinpoche and Zen master Seung Sahn. The two monks entered with swirling robes - maroon and yellow for the Tibetan, austere gray and black for the Korean - and were followed by retinues of younger monks and translators with shaven heads ... The Tibetan lama sat very still, fingering a wooden rosary (mala) with one hand while murmuring, 'Om mani padme hung,' continuously under his breath. The Zen master, who was already gaining renown for his method of hurling questions at his students until they were forced to admit their ignorance and then bellowing, 'Keep that don't know mind!' at them, reached deep inside his robes and drew out an orange. 'What is this?' he demanded of the lama. 'What is this?' This was a typical opening question, and we could feel him ready to pounce on whatever response he was given. The Tibetan sat quietly fingering his mala and made no move to respond. 'What is this?' the Zen master insisted, holding the orange up to the Tibetan's nose. Kalu Rinpoche bent very slowly to the Tibetan monk next to him who was serving as the translator, and they whispered back and forth for several minutes. Finally the translator addressed the room: 'Rinpoche says, What is the matter with him? Don't they have oranges where he comes from?' A classic Buddhist story found on the net. Volunteer Requests Assistance with preparation for special events, weekends and teaching nights is always greatly appreciated. This includes assistance in the kitchen, setting up, taking down and any other donation of talent or effort that can assist the temple. You are always greatly appreciated! The temple does have some special requests from time to time as well. Sati Meditation Recently, a small group from Dae Yen Sa enjoyed a field trip to Chuang Yen Temple in Carmel, NY. We participated in a retreat day, where we learned a new form of meditation practice called Sati. In Sati Meditation the practitioner uses mindful movements of the hands to bring about greater awareness.This practice was introduced by Luangpor Teean Jittasubho (1911-1988) of Thailand and taught to us by Dr. Dwight Chien. It is our intention to make Sati meditation sessions available at DaeYen Sa. If any member who participated in our Sati retreat in NY is interested in leading Sati meditation please see Eduardo. For those wishing to experience the Sati retreat day at Chuang Yen, the next session is December 12, 2009. Calling all TV Techies! The temple is seeking a volunteer(s) to help us find or purchase a big screen TV for the Main Temple that we could also connect to a computer. There are so many great teachings and wisdom available in multimedia now that would add to study experiences. In addition the temple is considering offering occasional "movie nights" for families. Maybe our first Movie night could be "MULAN" in honor of dear little Sasha! Of course, we are also seeking donations for the purchase of the TV, or, of a TV itself. Thank you in advance for your kindness in achieving this goal for the benefit of the sangha. Please see Su Yen Sunim to help with this endeavor. Lending Library The East gives us thousands upon thousands of Buddhist sacred texts. And here in the West we have access to many books and articles from teachers like Jack Kornfield, Pema Chodron and other well-known teachers. It is our goal to begin a small lending library of Buddhist texts that would be open to Sangha members. The idea has been approved by Su Yen Sunim and Master, so we'll keep you posted on the logistics. In the meantime consider donating your books of wisdom to the temple. Make it a practice in letting go! Talks and Workshops While we have the Wisdom of the Triple Gem we also recognize the network of members and friends with wisdom to share with Dae Yen Sa. If you, or anyone you know, has an interest in presenting a workshop/lecture/training that is relevant and appropriate to Buddhist principles and practice, please speak with Eduardo. At present, the Temple does not have funds for lecturers. Any presentation would be considered a donation would be very much appreciated. Thank you in advance. SPECIAL MENTION! Nirvana Juice Bar, Torrington One of our Sangha members, Rosie, invites us to visit her juice bar in Downtown Torrington. Rosie offers many wonderful health and energy drinks and foods as well as aromatic incenses and products sangha members would appreciate. In addition Rosie hosts guest lectures and open mike nights. Visit her website for more information and then visit her store for some "chill" time. http://nirvanahealthbar.com/ Nirvana is a healthy, fun and informative place to visit! Saturday Temple Regular Schedule: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM Yoga 10:00 AM to 10:20 AM Tea Break 10:20 AM to 11:00 AM Silent Meditation 11:00 AM to 11:10 AM Walking Meditation 11:10 AM to 11:30 AM Chanting 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM Korean Vegetarian Lunch The first Saturday of each month, Dae Yen Sa has a retreat day with a revised schedule. Call or contact the temple for the schedule and activities for that day. Buddhist Food Blessing Members of Dae Yen Sa and Stillwater Meditation join together in recognizing the gift of food. MEAL PRAYERS First: We consider in detail the merit of this food and how it came to us. Second: We evaluate our own virtue and practice, lacking or complete, as we receive this offering. Third: We are mindful of our own greed, hatred and ignorance, to guard our minds and to free ourselves from error. Fourth: We take this food as good medicine to save our bodies from emaciation. Fifth: We accept this food to achieve the Way of the Buddha. Oh, all you hungry ghosts, We now offer this food to you. May all of you everywhere Share it with us together. 19 Kinsey Road New Hartford, CT 06057 Telephone: (860) 489-3254 Cell: (860) 459-6255 Fax: (860) 489-5760 Donations greatly appreciated! VISIT DAE YEN SA ON FACEBOOK!

2009 November Announcements

2009 November Announcements Dae Yen Sa International Buddhist Temple and Meditation Center Simple and wholesome goodness of sweet, ripe, bright strawberries. Contents: 1. Upcoming Events 2. Dharma School Series 3. Buddha Thought 4. Volunteer! 5. Saturday Schedule Reminder 6. Dae Yen Sa Video Upcoming Events Candlelight Walking Meditation Evening Candlelight Walking Meditation and Chanting for an End to Violence ---In November, we will be planning an evening of mindful walking and chanting for peace within us and within the world. This evening service will take place in the Main Hall that will be lit by (battery operated) candles. As part of the service we are asking Sangha members, friends and guests to offer a short written or impromptu prayer for peace. This special evening promises to be beautiful and powerful. We will keep you posted on specific date. Nonviolent Communication Workshop Sangha members Aaron Doyle and Eduardo Barrios are working on scheduling a non-violent communication workshop in the coming months. See more info at http://www.cnvc.org and stay tuned for more information in the future! The Dharma School Series Chanting & Meditation 7 pm - 7:30 pm Dae Yen Sa Dharma School & Tea 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm We welcome individuals of all paths and understandings to participate in weekly gatherings consisting of meditation, meditative reading and review along with group reflection on Buddhist principles and practices or Dharma. The only requirement is an open mind and open heart. Study Topic for Wednesday 11/18/09: The Dhammapada, Chapter 6 - The Wise. For those with Books please read Chapter 6: The Wise For those without books please read Chapter 6: The Wise What does wisdom mean to you? From where does wisdom come? Who is wise? Naturally we tend to equate wisdom to academic intelligence or analytical superiority in human beings. Do you know the wisdom of the seasons? Or of a delicate flower pushing up through solid concrete toward the light of the noonday sun? Do you know the wisdom of a newborn baby sleeping? Or of the dog wagging her tale on your arrival home? What is wisdom? It is to see and know, to our very core, that all of life is as it is, and not as our illusory mind would have it be. It is to accept and to appreciate true nature as we come to know it in our experience not about how many books we've read, or concepts we can memorize or recite. All phenomena has the capacity to teach us wisdom if we are open to a way of radical seeing, where all judgement vanishes away. To be wise is to gently and consistently strive in our meditation and practice to not reject the duality of life, but to transcend duality with supreme compassion where we can hold both the relative and absolute forms - this is the equanimity of heaven. The sun shines on the good and the bad, the flower emits it's beautiful scents to the gentle and the cruel, great saints of all traditions pray for all without designation. This is wisdom. This is Love. Namu Nobody is condemned in Buddhism, for greatness is latent even in the seemingly lowliest, just as lotuses spring from muddy ponds. Ongoing Wednesday Night Dharma ---Wednesday's we are continuing the 26 week study of the Dhammapada. Books are provided with a suggested $5 donation.This study will be practiced in the meditative recitation style similar to our Shantideva experience. The first session started Wednesday evening 10/14/09. The winters are always shorter when we're studying together! Let's embark on this Dhammapada journey and see where it takes us. Invite someone new to experience the warmth of the sangha. Buddha Thought Rene Descartes walks into a bar and has a drink. The bartender asks him, "Would you like another?" Descartes pauses and says, "I think not," and promptly disappears. The bartender is enlightened. A classic Buddhist joke found on the net. Volunteer Requests Assistance with preparation for special events, weekends and teaching nights is always greatly appreciated. This includes assistance in the kitchen, setting up, taking down and any other donation of talent or effort that can assist the temple. You are always greatly appreciated! The temple does have some special requests from time to time as well. Sati Meditation Recently, a small group from Dae Yen Sa enjoyed a field trip to Chuang Yen Temple in Carmel, NY. We participated in a retreat day, where we learned a new form of meditation practice called Sati. In Sati Meditation the practitioner uses mindful movements of the hands to bring about greater awareness.This practice was introduced by Luangpor Teean Jittasubho (1911-1988) of Thailand and taught to us by Dr. Dwight Chien. It is our intention to make Sati meditation sessions available at DaeYen Sa. If any member who participated in our Sati retreat in NY is interested in leading Sati meditation please see Eduardo. For those wishing to experience the Sati retreat day at Chuang Yen, the next session is December 12, 2009. Calling all TV Techies! The temple is seeking a volunteer(s) to help us find or purchase a big screen TV for the Main Temple that we could also connect to a computer. There are so many great teachings and wisdom available in multimedia now that would add to study experiences. In addition the temple is considering offering occasional "movie nights" for families. Maybe our first Movie night could be "MULAN" in honor of dear little Sasha! Of course, we are also seeking donations for the purchase of the TV, or, of a TV itself. Thank you in advance for your kindness in achieving this goal for the benefit of the sangha. Please see Su Yen Sunim to help with this endeavor. Lending Library The East gives us thousands upon thousands of Buddhist sacred texts. And here in the West we have access to many books and articles from teachers like Jack Kornfield, Pema Chodron and other well-known teachers. It is our goal to begin a small lending library of Buddhist texts that would be open to Sangha members. The idea has been approved by Su Yen Sunim and Master, so we'll keep you posted on the logistics. In the meantime consider donating your books of wisdom to the temple. Make it a practice in letting go! Talks and Workshops While we have the Wisdom of the Triple Gem we also recognize the network of members and friends with wisdom to share with Dae Yen Sa. If you, or anyone you know, has an interest in presenting a workshop/lecture/training that is relevant and appropriate to Buddhist principles and practice, please speak with Eduardo. At present, the Temple does not have funds for lecturers. Any presentation would be considered a donation would be very much appreciated. Thank you in advance. SPECIAL MENTION! Nirvana Juice Bar, Torrington One of our Sangha members, Rosie, invites us to visit her juice bar in Downtown Torrington. Rosie offers many wonderful health and energy drinks and foods as well as aromatic incenses and products sangha members would appreciate. In addition Rosie hosts guest lectures and open mike nights. Visit her website for more information and then visit her store for some "chill" time. http://nirvanahealthbar.com/ Nirvana is a healthy, fun and informative place to visit! Saturday Temple Regular Schedule: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM Yoga 10:00 AM to 10:20 AM Tea Break 10:20 AM to 11:00 AM Silent Meditation 11:00 AM to 11:10 AM Walking Meditation 11:10 AM to 11:30 AM Chanting 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM Korean Vegetarian Lunch The first Saturday of each month, Dae Yen Sa has a retreat day with a revised schedule. Call or contact the temple for the schedule and activities for that day. Rear View Mirror Pierce visiting Dae Yen Sa temple with his group from Stillwater Meditation speaks about looking into the rear view mirror vs. the importance of staying in the now. 19 Kinsey Road New Hartford, CT 06057 Telephone: (860) 489-3254 Cell: (860) 459-6255 Fax: (860) 489-5760 Donations greatly appreciated! VISIT DAE YEN SA ON FACEBOOK!

2009 November Announcements

2009 November Announcements Dae Yen Sa International Buddhist Temple and Meditation Center Prayer beads used for keeping track of prayers and chants. Contents: 1. Upcoming Events 2. Dharma School Series 3. Buddha Thought 4. Volunteer! 5. Saturday Schedule Reminder 6. Dae Yen Sa Video Upcoming Events Candlelight Walking Meditation Evening Candlelight Walking Meditation and Chanting for an End to Violence ---In November, we will be planning an evening of mindful walking and chanting for peace within us and within the world. This evening service will take place in the Main Hall that will be lit by (battery operated) candles. As part of the service we are asking Sangha members, friends and guests to offer a short written or impromptu prayer for peace. This special evening promises to be beautiful and powerful. We will keep you posted on specific date. An Invitation to Enjoy Stillwater Meditation!!! Stillwater invites everyone to visit their Holistic Health Fair at their Holistic Health Center, 30 Beach Road, Wolcott CT from 11 am to 2 pm. The day includes free workshops, Reiki massage, transformation energy, snacks and beverages as well as free instructional classes in Yoga, Tai Chi, NIA (aerobics) and meditation. Telephone 203-879-0630 for details and visit them on the net! http://stillwatermeditation.com/ Nonviolent Communication Workshop Sangha members Aaron Doyle and Eduardo Barrios are working on scheduling a non-violent communication workshop in the coming months. See more info at http://www.cnvc.org and stay tuned for more information in the future! The Dharma School Series Chanting & Meditation 7 pm - 7:30 pm Dae Yen Sa Dharma School & Tea 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm We welcome individuals of all paths and understandings to participate in weekly gatherings consisting of meditation, meditative reading and review along with group reflection on Buddhist principles and practices or Dharma. The only requirement is an open mind and open heart. Study Topic for Wednesday 11/04/09: 11/11/09: The Dhammapada, Chapter 5 - Fools. For those with Books please read Chapter 5: Fools For those without books please read Chapter 5: Fools “Any fool can make things bigger, more complex, and more violent. It takes a touch of genius-and a lot of courage-to move in the opposite direction.” --------Albert Einstein Fools. We have all experienced them and maybe more times than we'd like to admit, we have played the fool. But take heart, no one is exempt. The dictionary defines a Fool as: "a person who acts unwisely or imprudently; a silly person". The last definition "a silly person" is kind of funny and makes me think of Monty Python comedy sketches! What's not so humorous is the first definition, "a person who acts unwisely". In the chapter on Fools, the Buddha is not speaking about eliminating fun in our lives, but rather living life without awareness and mindfulness. There is a reason that of the three poisons, Greed, Anger, and Ignorance, that Ignorance is the most destructive, because of negative consequences that can arise from mindlessness. We can create all sorts of pain and suffering due to our ignorance or wrong view of a person or situation. Just reflect on your own life experience. It is not easy to live out of the Dharma and to "suffer the fools" around us. But we know as Buddhist practitioners, with Bodhisattva hearts, any little enlightenment we experience, or merit gained, is not for us to keep, but to be shared to help extinguish the ignorance of the whole world. Together we practice going courageously, compassionately and with supreme humility, bringing light to the dark places within us and without -- and hopefully with a healthy sense of humor. Nobody is condemned in Buddhism, for greatness is latent even in the seemingly lowliest, just as lotuses spring from muddy ponds. Namu. Ongoing Wednesday Night Dharma ---Wednesday's we are continuing the 26 week study of the Dhammapada. Books are provided with a suggested $5 donation.This study will be practiced in the meditative recitation style similar to our Shantideva experience. The first session started Wednesday evening 10/14/09. The winters are always shorter when we're studying together! Let's embark on this Dhammapada journey and see where it takes us.Invite someone new to experience the warmth of the sangha. Buddha Thought Hot Dog Vendor Joke Including Sequel! Q: What did a Buddhist say to the hot dog vendor? A: Make me one with everything. (The hot dog vendor prepares the hot dog and gives it to the monk. The monk pays him and asks for the change. The hot dog vendor says: "Change comes from within". A classic Buddhist joke found on the net. Volunteer Requests Assistance with preparation for special events, weekends and teaching nights is always greatly appreciated. This includes assistance in the kitchen, setting up, taking down and any other donation of talent or effort that can assist the temple. You are always greatly appreciated! The temple does have some special requests from time to time as well. Sati Meditation Recently, a small group from Dae Yen Sa enjoyed a field trip to Chuang Yen Temple in Carmel, NY. We participated in a retreat day, where we learned a new form of meditation practice called Sati. In Sati Meditation the practitioner uses mindful movements of the hands to bring about greater awareness.This practice was introduced by Luangpor Teean Jittasubho (1911-1988) of Thailand and taught to us by Dr. Dwight Chien. It is our intention to make Sati meditation sessions available at DaeYen Sa. If any member who participated in our Sati retreat in NY is interested in leading Sati meditation please see Eduardo. For those wishing to experience the Sati retreat day at Chuang Yen, the next session is December 12, 2009. Calling all TV Techies! The temple is seeking a volunteer(s) to help us find or purchase a big screen TV for the Main Temple that we could also connect to a computer. There are so many great teachings and wisdom available in multimedia now that would add to study experiences. In addition the temple is considering offering occasional "movie nights" for families. Maybe our first Movie night could be "MULAN" in honor of dear little Sasha! Of course, we are also seeking donations for the purchase of the TV, or, of a TV itself. Thank you in advance for your kindness in achieving this goal for the benefit of the sangha. Please see Su Yen Sunim to help with this endeavor. Lending Library The East gives us thousands upon thousands of Buddhist sacred texts. And here in the West we have access to many books and articles from teachers like Jack Kornfield, Pema Chodron and other well-known teachers. It is our goal to begin a small lending library of Buddhist texts that would be open to Sangha members. The idea has been approved by Su Yen Sunim and Master, so we'll keep you posted on the logistics. In the meantime consider donating your books of wisdom to the temple. Make it a practice in letting go! Talks and Workshops While we have the Wisdom of the Triple Gem we also recognize the network of members and friends with wisdom to share with Dae Yen Sa. If you, or anyone you know, has an interest in presenting a workshop/lecture/training that is relevant and appropriate to Buddhist principles and practice, please speak with Eduardo. At present, the Temple does not have funds for lecturers. Any presentation would be considered a donation would be very much appreciated. Thank you in advance. SPECIAL MENTION! Nirvana Juice Bar, Torrington One of our Sangha members, Rosie, invites us to visit her juice bar in Downtown Torrington. Rosie offers many wonderful health and energy drinks and foods as well as aromatic incenses and products sangha members would appreciate. In addition Rosie hosts guest lectures and open mike nights. Visit her website for more information and then visit her store for some "chill" time. http://nirvanahealthbar.com/ Nirvana is a healthy, fun and informative place to visit! Saturday Temple Regular Schedule: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM Yoga 10:00 AM to 10:20 AM Tea Break 10:20 AM to 11:00 AM Silent Meditation 11:00 AM to 11:10 AM Walking Meditation 11:10 AM to 11:30 AM Chanting 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM Korean Vegetarian Lunch The first Saturday of each month, Dae Yen Sa has a retreat day with a revised schedule. Call or contact the temple for the schedule and activities for that day. A Problem for Everything! Pierce from Stillwater Meditation presents the idea of a problem for everything and using this idea for release from stress. 19 Kinsey Road New Hartford, CT 06057 Telephone: (860) 489-3254 Cell: (860) 459-6255 Fax: (860) 489-5760 Donations greatly appreciated! VISIT DAE YEN SA ON FACEBOOK!

2009 November Announcements

2009 November Announcements Dae Yen Sa International Buddhist Temple and Meditation Center Read on for the meaning of flowers! Contents: 1. Upcoming Events 2. Dharma School Series 3. Buddha Thought 4. Volunteer! 5. Saturday Schedule Reminder 6. Dae Yen Sa Video Upcoming Events Candlelight Walking Meditation Evening Candlelight Walking Meditation and Chanting for an End to Violence ---In November, we will be planning an evening of mindful walking and chanting for peace within us and within the world. This evening service will take place in the Main Hall that will be lit by (battery operated) candles. As part of the service we are asking Sangha members, friends and guests to offer a short written or impromptu prayer for peace. This special evening promises to be beautiful and powerful. We will keep you posted on specific date. An Invitation to Enjoy Stillwater Meditation!!! On Saturday, October 24th, Stillwater Meditation Center Sangha, of Wolcott, CT, visited Dae Yen Sa for a Saturday morning session consisting of Tai Chi, Meditation, and a delicious vegetarian lunch. Thank you for attending and thanks to Stillwater Meditation for a wonderful day! Stillwater invites everyone to visit their Holistic Health Fair at their Holistic Health Center, 30 Beach Road, Wolcott CT from 11 am to 2 pm. The day includes free workshops, Reiki massage, transformation energy, snacks and beverages as well as free instructional classes in Yoga, Tai Chi, NIA (aerobics) and meditation. Telephone 203-879-0630 for details and visit them on the net! http://stillwatermeditation.com/ Nonviolent Communication Workshop Sangha members Aaron Doyle and Eduardo Barrios are working on scheduling a non-violent communication workshop in the coming months. See more info at http://www.cnvc.org and stay tuned for more information in the future! The Dharma School Series Chanting & Meditation 7 pm - 7:30 pm Dae Yen Sa Dharma School & Tea 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm We welcome individuals of all paths and understandings to participate in weekly gatherings consisting of meditation, meditative reading and review along with group reflection on Buddhist principles and practices or Dharma. The only requirement is an open mind and open heart. Study Topic for Wednesday 11/04/09: The Dhammapada, Chapter 4 - Flowers For those with Books please read Chapter 4: Flowers For those without books please read Chapter 4: Flowers Flowers are a sensual pleasure. We can see their beautiful colors, shapes and sizes. We can smell their wonderful fragrance. We often give flowers to people to let them know we love them, that we wish them well on a new endeavor, to cheer them up when they are feeling sad or sick, to celebrate a milestone and more. Paradoxically, we offer flowers, which are fragile and impermanent, to others as a sign of lasting affection and support. The Buddha uses the image of flowers to remind us of the truth of impermanence of life and exhorts us to live our life this very day in virtue, gathering merit as we go. But how do we do this? First, rather than criticizing or judging others we practice meditation, on and off the cushion, looking deeply and honestly at our own subtle and gross forms of attachment in order to let go. This is a continual and gentle practice of coming back to our true nature. Each time we let go of craving we become more free. The teaching of the 8 fold path gives us a road map and the sangha supports us in our practice toward liberation. In Hawaii, guests are given leis, flower garlands placed around the neck as a sign of welcome and affection. Each lei is made by adding one flower at a time. Maybe we could think of our life as a lei. When we let go of an attachment our hearts and minds become free to begin gathering and stringing together, one by one, flowers of virtue. Maybe this fragrant lei of merit and love that we've gathered in this life is what is to be shared. Namu. Ongoing Wednesday Night Dharma ---Wednesday's we are continuing the 26 week study of the Dhammapada. Books are provided with a suggested $5 donation.This study will be practiced in the meditative recitation style similar to our Shantideva experience. The first session started Wednesday evening 10/14/09. The winters are always shorter when we're studying together! Let's embark on this Dhammapada journey and see where it takes us.Invite someone new to experience the warmth of the sangha. Nobody is condemned in Buddhism, for greatness is latent even in the seemingly lowliest, just as lotuses spring from muddy ponds. Buddha Thought Three monks decided to practice meditation together. They sat by the side of a lake and closed their eyes in concentration. Then suddenly, the first one stood up and said, "I forgot my mat." He stepped miraculously onto the water in front of him and walked across the lake to their hut on the other side. When he returned, the second monk stood up and said, "I forgot to put my other underwear to dry." He too walked calmly across the water and returned the same way.The third monk watched the first two carefully in what he decided must be the test of his own abilities. "Is your learning so superior to mine? I too can match any feat you two can perform," he declared loudly and rushed to the water's edge to walk across it. He promptly fell into the deep water. Undeterred, the yogi climbed out of the water and tried again, only to sink into the water. Yet again he climbed out and yet again he tried, each time sinking into the water. This went on for some time as the other two monks watched. After a while, the second monk turned to the first and said, "Do you think we should tell him where the stones are?" A classic Buddhist joke found on the net. Volunteer Requests Assistance with preparation for special events, weekends and teaching nights is always greatly appreciated. This includes assistance in the kitchen, setting up, taking down and any other donation of talent or effort that can assist the temple. You are always greatly appreciated! The temple does have some special requests from time to time as well. Sati Meditation Recently, a small group from Dae Yen Sa enjoyed a field trip to Chuang Yen Temple in Carmel, NY. We participated in a retreat day, where we learned a new form of meditation practice called Sati. In Sati Meditation the practitioner uses mindful movements of the hands to bring about greater awareness.This practice was introduced by Luangpor Teean Jittasubho (1911-1988) of Thailand and taught to us by Dr. Dwight Chien. It is our intention to make Sati meditation sessions available at DaeYen Sa. If any member who participated in our Sati retreat in NY is interested in leading Sati meditation please see Eduardo. For those wishing to experience the Sati retreat day at Chuang Yen, the next session is December 12, 2009. Calling all TV Techies! The temple is seeking a volunteer(s) to help us find or purchase a big screen TV for the Main Temple that we could also connect to a computer. There are so many great teachings and wisdom available in multimedia now that would add to study experiences. In addition the temple is considering offering occasional "movie nights" for families. Maybe our first Movie night could be "MULAN" in honor of dear little Sasha! Of course, we are also seeking donations for the purchase of the TV, or, of a TV itself. Thank you in advance for your kindness in achieving this goal for the benefit of the sangha. Please see Su Yen Sunim to help with this endeavor. Lending Library The East gives us thousands upon thousands of Buddhist sacred texts. And here in the West we have access to many books and articles from teachers like Jack Kornfield, Pema Chodron and other well-known teachers. It is our goal to begin a small lending library of Buddhist texts that would be open to Sangha members. The idea has been approved by Su Yen Sunim and Master, so we'll keep you posted on the logistics. In the meantime consider donating your books of wisdom to the temple. Make it a practice in letting go! Talks and Workshops While we have the Wisdom of the Triple Gem we also recognize the network of members and friends with wisdom to share with Dae Yen Sa. If you, or anyone you know, has an interest in presenting a workshop/lecture/training that is relevant and appropriate to Buddhist principles and practice, please speak with Eduardo. At present, the Temple does not have funds for lecturers. Any presentation would be considered a donation would be very much appreciated. Thank you in advance. SPECIAL MENTION! Nirvana Juice Bar, Torrington One of our Sangha members, Rosie, invites us to visit her juice bar in Downtown Torrington. Rosie offers many wonderful health and energy drinks and foods as well as aromatic incenses and products sangha members would appreciate. In addition Rosie hosts guest lectures and open mike nights. Visit her website for more information and then visit her store for some "chill" time. http://nirvanahealthbar.com/ Nirvana is a healthy, fun and informative place to visit! Saturday Temple Regular Schedule: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM Yoga 10:00 AM to 10:20 AM Tea Break 10:20 AM to 11:00 AM Silent Meditation 11:00 AM to 11:10 AM Walking Meditation 11:10 AM to 11:30 AM Chanting 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM Korean Vegetarian Lunch The first Saturday of each month, Dae Yen Sa has a retreat day with a revised schedule. Call or contact the temple for the schedule and activities for that day. Good Luck! Bad Luck! Pierce from Stillwater Meditation presents the classic parable of the father running the farm and viewing events as good luck and bad luck. The points of view in the story are very temporary. 19 Kinsey Road New Hartford, CT 06057 Telephone: (860) 489-3254 Cell: (860) 459-6255 Fax: (860) 489-5760 Donations greatly appreciated! VISIT DAE YEN SA ON FACEBOOK!