Secular Buddhism

In life, difficulties arise. This is a universal aspect of the human experience. Knowing this, how do we deal with difficult emotions? We don't like feeling angry, sad, or afraid, but these are normal and natural emotions just like happiness or joy. Emotions, like everything else, are impermanent and interdependent. In this episode, I will discuss the topic of dealing with difficult emotions.Explore more at eightfoldpath.com: full transcripts, guided meditations, courses, and Noah AI, an AI you can chat with about any episode or teaching. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode explores the concept of perfection and the harm of comparisons. It emphasizes embracing uniqueness, non-comparison, and non-duality. The story of a monk learning these lessons is highlighted, promoting mindfulness and self-acceptance.

Exploring the interconnected nature of good and evil, challenging traditional dichotomies. Delving into the complexity of human emotions and responses. Emphasizing the role of values over goals in driving purposeful actions. Linking individual mindfulness to societal change and humanitarian adventures in Uganda.

Exploring living life artfully by valuing joy in creation and relationships over utilitarian purposes. Discussing purposeless purpose, Eastern existential philosophy, and finding value in actions for intrinsic joy. Highlighting a mindful humanitarian expedition in Uganda and opportunities for engagement in mindfulness programs and humanitarian efforts.

Why do we chase after happiness? What if we could be free from the pursuit of happiness? In this episode, I will explore the nature of human emotions. When we understand that all emotions, including happiness, sadness, etc...are impermanent, we can learn to stop chasing after these emotions. Pursuing happiness can be a lot like pursuing our shadow. It's not something we can "catch".Explore more at eightfoldpath.com: full transcripts, guided meditations, courses, and Noah AI, an AI you can chat with about any episode or teaching. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Exploring the concept of 'no self' in Buddhism, the podcast discusses the fluid nature of personal identity, using analogies like fire and a river. It compares identity to a Snickers commercial, emphasizing how it adapts and transforms with emotions and situations. The episode explores the ever-changing 'self' using the Mississippi River analogy, highlighting how experiences shape our identities. Personal experiences as an identical twin and a family discovery are shared to advocate for self-compassion and empathy towards ourselves and others.

Exploring the concept of truth as relative to space and time, highlighting the impermanence of life and reality. Reflecting on promises and commitments in a constantly changing world. Embracing the evolution of truth through the lens of time and encouraging a flexible perspective on life and impermanence.

Exploring the complexities of faith and doubt, shedding fixed beliefs for true understanding, embracing doubt and beginner's mind for growth, life through the lens of Tetris and faith, interplay of faith and doubt for new insights

This week I'm traveling for work so I thought it would be appropriate to talk about the journey of life. Every moment is a new experience we've never had. Each moment is unique and that's what makes it all so beautiful.Explore more at eightfoldpath.com: full transcripts, guided meditations, courses, and Noah AI, an AI you can chat with about any episode or teaching. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's commonly said that Buddhism is a path of liberation...but what does that really mean? In this episode, I will discuss the concept of freedom and truth. I will also discuss how can we extend freedom to ourselves and to others. If you are interested in attending any retreats or workshops, please visit http://secularbuddhism.com/retreats/ to express your interest.Explore more at eightfoldpath.com: full transcripts, guided meditations, courses, and Noah AI, an AI you can chat with about any episode or teaching. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.