The Buddhist Place
99 Brock St. Saint John's Anglican Church Peterborough, ON, Canada

Lots of chanting books available, let me know if you'd like one!

The Christmas season is one where the positive qualities of joy and generosity are recalled, experienced, practiced, and celebrated. And yet, we know that although these qualities are sometimes abundant and come easily, sometimes they seem difficult or impossible. We move between these opposites, trusting that our practice is taking us gradually toward a greater experience of the former. If progress is slow, how might we then boost our practice? Historically, it would have b...een a piece of rare good fortune to come across a skilled dhamma teacher. These days, the internet has made the Buddha's teaching widely available, thanks to the many monastics who have dedicated their lives to understanding and spreading the dhamma and all its subtleties. Not only are there many free Dhamma talks online, but a number of retreats are now taking advantage of the "Zoom" phenomenon, making the even rarer experience of group meditation more accessible. In the middle of this time of celebration, we are about to face further restrictions and possible isolation. Will isolation be viewed with despair and a sense of privation? or as an opportunity for meditation and contemplation, for exploring and discovering the ingredients of true happiness? It is sometimes said that a wise person makes best use of the time available. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idG6N3gzSPg See more

If beings knew, as I know, the results of giving and sharing, they would not eat without having given, nor would the stain of selfishness overcome their minds. Even if it were their last bite, their last mouthful, they would not eat without having shared, if there were someone to receive their gift. Itivuttaka 26

Metta Sutta (translated by Gil Fronsdal) To reach the state of peace One skilled in the good... Should be Capable and upright, Straightforward and easy to speak to, Gentle and not proud, Contented and easily supported, Living lightly and with few duties, Wise and with senses calmed, Not arrogant and without greed for supporters, And should not do the least thing that the wise would criticize. [One should reflect:] May all be happy and secure; May all beings be happy at heart. All living beings, whether weak or strong, Tall, large, medium, or short, Tiny or big, Seen or unseen, Near or distant, Born or to be born, May they all be happy. Let no one deceive another Or despise anyone anywhere; Let no one through anger or aversion Wish for others to suffer. As a mother would risk her own life To protect her child, her only child, So toward all beings should one Cultivate a boundless heart. With loving-kindness for the whole world should one Cultivate a boundless heart, Above, below, and all around Without obstruction, without hate and without ill-will. Standing or walking, sitting or lying down, Whenever one is awake, May one stay with this recollection. This is called a sublime abiding, here and now. One who is virtuous, endowed with vision, Not taken by views, And having overcome all greed for sensual pleasure Will not be reborn again.

Next pop-up walk: Thursday at 12 noon. We'll meet at the Bonaccord entrance to Jackson Park Please check your email before you head out, in case there are any last minute changes or updates

All are welcome.

It's almost time, friends... The Gilmour Street Garage Sale, is fast approaching! We hope to see you there! Proceeds from our sales support The Warming Room Community Ministries of Peterborough and the Tisarana Monestary. Keep helping us help, and take home some gently used and new treasures. With metta, Erin (on behalf of the Buddhist Place) ://www.facebook.com/events/597646034005344/?ti=ia

Dear Friends, Part two of the series, Introduction to Meditation and the Buddha's Teachings is taking place on Saturday, April 27. It is a beginner’s guide to basic meditation practices. There will be periods of guided meditation, silent meditation and loving-kindness meditation. We welcome you to explore meditation in a safe and friendly setting. Participation is open to everyone and offered freely. Opportunities will be provided to ask questions. Date: Saturday, Ap...ril 27 Time: 8:10am - 10:00am Location: St. John's Anglican Church, 99 Brock Street, Peterborough Introduction to Insight Meditation by Ajahn Sucitto shares a few ways on how to begin your practice if you're brand new to meditation. It also suggests ways in which to reflect on and contemplate your current meditation practice. For The Buddhist Place, jessica "This booklet serves as an introduction to the practice of Insight Meditation. You need not be familiar with the teachings of the Buddha to make use of it, although such knowledge can help to clarify any personal understanding you may develop through meditation." Click on the photo to access the booklet for free online.

We would love to see you here, with open and compassionate hearts, ears and minds.