Gathering: March 14, 2007

After sitting and walking meditation, we took a few minutes to review the form relating to our practice. We discussed bowing, breathing, moving about the room, ceremonies such as the incense offering and touching the earth, as well as a reminder of how and when to invite the bell to sound.

Afterwards we continued our discussion of the 14 mindfulness trainings with the second Mindfulness Training:

Nonattachment to Views

Aware of the suffering created by attachment to views and wrong perceptions, we are determined to avoid being narrow-minded and bound to present views. We shall learn and practice non-attachment from views in order to be open to others’ insights and experiences. We are aware that the knowledge we presently possess is not changeless, absolute truth. Truth is found in life, and we will observe life within and around us in every moment, ready to learn throughout our lives.

The discussion that followed was pretty intense, and would have continued much longer if our time had not run out. We talked about situations where we have found it difficult to remain openminded about another's point of view, because we so strongly believe it to be wrong. For instance, whether torture can ever be justified, or how to remain open in the presence of someone who believes it is okay to abuse women.

We all have views that we feel so strongly about, that we have great difficulty letting go of our attachment to them. We can agree that we need to be open to new and changing ideas in order to continue to grow, and that we do not have the right to say "I am right, and you are wrong", but it is a continuing challenge to remain open and compassionate.