Regular events

Dharma Monday

Social change and non-violent action

This evening is the 2nd in a four week series.

Click here to read the first week's description of the theme.

As we consciously participate in the social change that is happening around us, we will inevitably come up against people who believe differently than we do. Sometimes our views and their views will be mutually exclusive. As a Buddhist, what do you do in such situations? What does it mean to avoid violence in such situations? Are there any occasions when violence might be appropriate?

Such questions are difficult to answer, particularly when they are purely hypothetical. And if we are brutally honest with ourselves, when we are pushed into extreme situations in real life, we don't really know if we'll actually run, fight, or pray in the moment. Discussions and personal reflection can prepare us better for such experiences.

This evening will be a collective exploration. We will be drawing on the life of Martin Luther King, his thoughts on non-violent opposition and protest, and contributing our own experience of working through conflict with others. Exploring this topic through reflection, discussion, and real-life examples, we will look to find greater personal understanding, some alternative approaches, and perhaps a little more inspiration.

Dharma night is suitable for those who would like to learn more about Buddhism. It is also a popular night for regular friends to drop in and practice together. If you are a beginner but can't get to/or have just started one of our meditation classes, you are still welcome to come and join in.

The usual program for the evening is a talk or discussion on some aspect of Buddhism, tea break, then group meditation to end the evening.

When

Cost