Metta Foundation

It is the mission of the Metta Foundation to foster the convergence of wisdom born of traditional meditative stillness and compassion born of human encounter. In a non-sectarian manner, and with Buddhist thought and practice as our principal background, we offer teachings, develop service programs, and conduct research that enhances clarity, loving presence and mutuality between people and the world around them.

Dharma Contemplation Practice

You are invited to join a Dharma Contemplation group hosted by the Metta Foundation.

Dharma Contemplation brings together meditation and interactive study of the Buddha's teachings, in an online setting. In its online form, the basic practice begins with listening to and reading a short excerpt of the Buddha's words from the earliest discourses, the Pali Canon.

Over the course of one week, each group member contemplates the passage in a methodical manner according to practice guidelines we have developed. Reflections are posted to the email list and as these reflections are read by each member, they broaden, deepen, and help sustain each person's individual practice. Thus the group practice and support serves to enhance individual understanding.

Changing each day, Dharma Contemplation moves the practitioner from intellectual consideration-the cognitive, to emotional feeling of the teaching-the affective, to the direct apprehensions of contemplation. Instructions are provided and real, human help is available via email at any time.

The practice offers a bridge between theory and practice and a means for directly experiencing important teachings.

Considering the truths the Buddha taught, our minds are challenged. Awakened, and calmed; our hearts are softened and nourished.

Requirements:

It will be necessary to check your email daily and to post at least once all days. Group sizes will be limited so the volume of email will be acceptable. The greater one's effort, the more effective the practice will be. We have discovered that due to the nature of online practice, a strong commitment is necessary from each participant for the group to gel. Please only join if you're able to commit to this kind of active participation. There will be future groups, so don't worry if this is not a good time to explore this practice.

To be added to the participant list or ask any questions, please email the moderator:
steinberggary@hotmail.com