Antidotes to Anger and dis-Harmonious Living: A talk on the 8 Verses of Training the Mind

Samadhi Yoga - 1205 E Pike St #1B Seattle WA ​98122 (17 May 2013, 7-8:30pm)

No outer enemy can take us to a hell realm; only our own ego, pride, jealousy, and anger can take us to such places.  If we have a difficult supervisor or neighbor, we can change jobs or move out.  The other enemy that always comes with us, sleeps with us, eats with us, even when we are happy they are right there with us — that enemy is the most dangerous.  Anger is one of the most unstable and powerful of these afflictions.  Whether we are its agent or recipient, its capacity for dealing out destruction and suffering is overwhelming.

Using the Tibetan Buddhist teaching Eight Verses of Training the Mind as a guide, we will discuss how to identify and locate the sources and effects of anger.  Rather than seeking to shut down or expel anger, we will learn instead how to foster a mindful practice of becoming intimate with anger.  The giving and receiving breath technique of tonglen will also be discussed.  This practice will include the cultivation of loving-kindness and wisdom to support the health and balance of the most neglected parts of ourselves.

“Anger comes quickly, and is available any time you want it.  It is patience that is difficult.”