SPIRITUAL PRACTICE FROM THE OUTSIDE IN

SPIRITUAL PRACTICE FROM THE OUTSIDE IN

It is easy to assume that in order to be happy on the inside we need to make changes on the outside—a different job, a new relationship, more of this, less of that. In this way we become habitually dissatisfied, looking for happiness where it cannot be found.

Fortunately, the Buddha's teachings offer us an alternative. The Buddha taught that by paying close attention we can begin to see how the circumstances in our lives can enlighten us—how everything we see outside of ourselves can show us how we are on the inside. As we explore this compassionate awareness of who and how we are, a new world is created—a world containing the possibility of peace and joy, where we have the opportunity to experience the completeness of each moment and the ease and satisfaction of just being.

This retreat will include workshop sessions, sitting and walking meditation, group discussions, opportunities for individual guidance, and, as always, time to enjoy the serenity and beauty of Southern Dharma's mountain setting.

Dave McKay has trained monastically for the past twelve years and currently serves as a senior monk at the Zen Monastery Peace Center in Murphys, CA. He is a full-time student and teacher of awareness practice. Dave facilitates workshops and retreats at the Monastery and around the country.

Chris Larson has been a lay practitioner with the Zen Monastery Peace Center in Murphys, CA since 1988 and has facilitated workshops and retreats for the past ten years. He lives with his wife and daughter in Asheville, where he serves as guide for Mountain Zen Practice Center.

Both Chris and Dave have studied extensively with Cheri Huber and practice a unique style of Zen Buddhism that is easily accessible and readily applicable to daily life in western culture.