It’s impossible to understand the self without resorting to metaphor. A more radical proposition is that what we consider to be “me” is, itself, a metaphor. Metaphors are often thought of as colorful augmenting features of language. However, a growing body of research shows that ordinary “literal” language is infused with metaphors. It is impossible to think, feel, or act without the use of metaphors. In fact, the evolution of the human mind may have depended on the use of metaphors. The words we use are not “dead” and the concepts they point to can contribute to stress, mental anguish, and unhappiness. If we are not familiar with the metaphor of “me” we will suffer. The Buddha used metaphors as upaya, (“skillful means”) and we will continue that practice. To be aware of the metaphors we use can facilitate our creativity and growth. This workshop integrates the use of metaphors and poetry with mindfulness practice and exercises to deepen our understanding and experience of the Dharma, enabling us to live with more freedom in the here and now. The source text for the program will be Arnie Kozak’s book, Wild Chickens and Petty Tyrants: 108 Metaphors for Mindfulness.

 

I hope that you’ll join me at the special setting that is the Barre Center for Buddhist Studies for a weekend of learning, practicing, and sharing.BCBS is a beautiful place that exudes peace in every stone on the property, and there are many, many stones on its 80 plus acres.

 

Continuing education credits (12) are available. The Barre Center for Buddhist Studies is devoted to preserving the Theravadan Buddhist traditions through scholarship and practice. I am honored to part of the faculty and to have this opportunity to teach, facilitate, and inspire your realization of the Buddha’s teachings.

 

The I, Me, and Mine as Metaphors: Untangling the Dharma of "Self" Through Language and Mindfulness workshop will take place 22 to 24 February 2013 The program starts with registration at 4:00 PM on Friday, dinner at 6;00 and the opening session from 7:30 to 9:00. We will wrap up the program after lunch on Sunday. Register here now. 

 

"I thank you for the many riches bestoewed upon me during your course in Barre. It's unusual for me to have the opporutnity to work directly with a tacher who is deeply and equally fluent in intellectual and emotional factors of the dharma. Every moment was a treat: Your selection of moving and inspiring poems, your familiarity with brain research, and your guidance during sitting practice."--Muriel Wolf,Grief Counselor, Brattleboro, Vermont

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