Podcasts about first noble truth

On this episode, Brian discusses the first part of the Sacca-Vibhanga Sutta with a discussion on the Dhamma Wheel and the First Noble Truth. A class discussion follows. Details and readings can be found at Classes - Cross River Meditation   Please join us for mediation and discussions on Saturday mornings at 8:30am eastern, both in person and via zoom at https://zoom.us/j/9083919079    If you are subscribed to our Podcast on Podbean, iTunes, or Spotify you will receive notifications when new episodes are posted.     Should you feel motivated to do so, please support us by donating here: Cross River Support

See all series | See all talksTeacher: Candace Robb, Judith Avinger, Lyndal Johnson, Sooz Appel Date: 2025-01-26 SundaySeriesThe Four Noble Truths & The Twelve Insights (Sunday mornings, 2025) 2025-01-05 Aravind Moorthy, Lauren Wilson, Nana Gyesie This recording was edited and prepared for publication by volunteer John Stott.

Understanding the Four Noble Truths: A Path to Freedom and Peace The First Noble Truth: Life Contains Suffering (Dukkha)  The first truth is simple: life contains suffering. The Buddha used the word *dukkha*, which is often translated as suffering, but it also means unease, dissatisfaction, or stress.   "The First Noble Truth is not meant to depress us but to awaken us to the reality of our lives so that we can start to live more fully." -Jack Kornfield The Second Noble Truth: The Cause of Suffering (Tanha) The second truth goes deeper. It says suffering arises from *tanha*, often translated as craving or clinging. It's that feeling of “I need this” or “I need things to be different.”  "Craving is the force that drives our discontent. It's not the external world that binds us but the way we cling to it."  -Joseph Goldstein   "The Four Noble Truths point us to the possibility of being fully present with our suffering in a way that transforms it, rather than letting it control us." -Sharon Salzberg The Third Noble Truth: The End of Suffering Now, here's the good news. The third truth tells us that suffering can end. There is a way to step off the treadmill of craving and dissatisfaction.   The Buddha called this "nirvana", but don't think of it as some mystical state far away. It's simply freedom—a mind at ease, not caught up in endless wanting. The Fourth Noble Truth: The Path to the End of Suffering The final truth is the *how.* It's called the Eightfold Path—a practical guide for living with more wisdom, kindness, and mindfulness. Think of it as eight steps, like right speech (speaking truthfully and kindly) or right mindfulness (being present in the moment).   These steps aren't rules—they're tools. They help us live in a way that reduces suffering for ourselves and others.   In a world that often feels chaotic, the Four Noble Truths give us clarity. They remind us that it's not about fixing the world but understanding our relationship with it. By seeing where we cling or resist, we can begin to let go.    The Four Noble Truths aren't abstract ideas—they're invitations to look at your own life.   "These teachings are not about becoming someone different. They're about being fully human, with all the beauty and pain that entails."  -Jack Kornfield "The Four Noble Truths are universal. They speak to everyone who has ever felt joy or sorrow, love or loss."   -Joseph Goldstein "These teachings show us that we can meet our struggles with mindfulness and compassion, and in doing so, we can transform our lives."   -Sharon Salzberg Want to Read all About this? Here's Great Dharma Book: Noble Truths, Noble Path - The Wisdom Experience Want to Dive Deep into Dharma Talks by Experienced Teachers go here: https://dharmaseed.org/talks/ If you found this helpful and you would like to support Flowering Lotus Meditation : https://givebutter.com/2PLTJK  Disclaimer: The purpose of this episode is to serve as an introduction or reminder of this Buddhist concept. We researched the topic and presented it in a super simplistic way. There is much more depth to these teachings and we encourage you to dive in.

This talk was given by Gil Fronsdal on 2024.11.12 at the Insight Meditation Center in Redwood City, CA. ******* For more talks like this, visit AudioDharma.org ******* If you have enjoyed this talk, please consider supporting AudioDharma with a donation at https://www.audiodharma.org/donate/. ******* This talk is licensed by a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License

This talk was given by Gil Fronsdal on 2024.11.12 at the Insight Meditation Center in Redwood City, CA. ******* For more talks like this, visit AudioDharma.org ******* If you have enjoyed this talk, please consider supporting AudioDharma with a donation at https://www.audiodharma.org/donate/. ******* This talk is licensed by a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License

Dharma talk by Melissa Myozen Blacker, Rōshi, on July 16, 2024

Reflecting on the inevitable truth of suffering, JoAnna Hardy explains what we do have jurisdiction over: our action, speech and mind.Today's podcast is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/beherenow and get on your way to being your best self.This time on the BHNN Guest Podcast, JoAnna Hardy explains:Recognizing the first noble truth of suffering all around usBreaking down what we cannot control in lifeHow resistance toward the inevitable causes sufferingReflecting on our ability to control our internal world (priorities, attitudes, etc.)How our speech and actions are in our jurisdictionCultivating a wise, steady, and skillful heart and mindThe mind as our sixth senseThe way we latch on to the stories we tell ourselvesHow one mind-state can feed into anotherRetraining the phenomena of our habitsThe relief we can feel when we let go of what we cannot controlAbout JoAnna Hardy: JoAnna Hardy is an insight meditation (Vipassanā) practitioner and teacher; she is on faculty at the University of Southern California, a meditation trainer at Apple Fitness+, a founding member of the Meditation Coalition, a teacher's council member at Spirit Rock Meditation Center, a visiting retreat teacher at Insight Meditation Society, and a collaborator on many online meditation Apps and programs. Her greatest passion is to teach meditation in communities that are dedicated to seeing the truth of how racism, gender inequality and oppression go hand in hand with the compassionate action teachings in Buddhism and related perspectives to social and racial justice. This recording was originally published on Dharmaseed.org“When we sit here and deeply pay attention to this process of the mind, it's so fascinating. What is under my control, what can I control? Pay attention every time you have a mind moment to what you do with it and to it, and how you hold it, and what you decide your next mind moment is going to be.” – JoAnna HardySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, spiritual director John Bruna continues teaching on the 16 attributes of the Four Noble Truths, as presented in the text “Samsara, Nirvana, and Buddha Nature,'' by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Venerable Thubten Chodron. John summarizes the attributes of true dukkha by explaining how we misperceive ourselves, things and events. He offers everyday examples of using ethics, concentration and wisdom to unravel these misperceptions and engage more realistically in our experiences. This episode was recorded on May 8th, 2024.Welcome to the Way of Compassion Dharma Center Podcast. Located in Carbondale, Colorado, the Way of Compassion Dharma center's primary objective is to provide programs of Buddhist studies and practices that are practical, accessible, and meet the needs of the communities we serve.  As a traditional Buddhist center, all of our teachings are offered freely. If you would like to make a donation to support the center, please visit www.wocdc.org.  May you flourish in your practice and may all beings swiftly be free of suffering.

Here are some of the key takeaways we discussed:Finding purpose and overcoming suffering: We delved into the "First Noble Truth" of Buddhism with Dr. Soni.Joy vs. Happiness: We learned the difference between fleeting happiness and cultivating lasting inner peace.Discovering your unique spiritual path: We discussed how spirituality is not about religion, but about connecting with something bigger than yourself.Building your support system: We explored the importance of finding your "tribe" and connecting with like-minded people.Redefining success on your terms: We talked about celebrating your strengths and creating your own "internal resume" to define success on your own terms.If you're a young adult feeling lost or overwhelmed, this episode is for you. We hope you found the conversation insightful, and learned how spirituality can empower you to navigate life's complexities and find your own unique light.

In this episode we explore one of the core teachings of the Buddha—the Five Aggregates and their connection to our problems and suffering. The Buddha taught that life is pervaded by dukkha, which means dissatisfaction or suffering. More specifically, in the First Noble Truth, Buddha taught that “The five aggregates subject to clinging are suffering.” These aggregates—form, sensation, perception, mental formations, and consciousness—are the parts that make our self. When our five aggregates, including our consciousness, are conditioned by ignorance, we experience an unenlightened life subject to dissatisfaction.  In essence, our unenlightened life is suffering.  Enlightened life is Nirvana, which is free of dissatisfaction and suffering.  How do we experience an enlightened life? Buddha said that when we purify our aggregates of delusions, such as attachment and ignorance, we experience an enlightened life.  In this episode, we begin a journey to purify our intentions and actions of delusions. JoAnn Fox teaches a simple way to check whether your intention is motivated by delusion. She also guides a meditation on this technique and offers a mindfulness practice for daily life. The five aggregates are: form feeling discrimination  mental formations (or influences of a previous life, mental states or delusions)  consciousness Mindfulness Practice Observe your intentions before acting by asking yourself “What are the consequences of this choice?” Will it bring happiness? What is my intention? Observe how you feel. Delusions make our minds uncomfortable. If we're feeling uncomfortable, a delusion like anger or attachment is present in our minds, making our intention unskillful. This is a simple way to see if the intention is good or bad.  Him I call a brahmana, who even in this existence realizes the end of dukkha (i.e., Nibbana), who has laid down the burden (of the skandhas) and who is free from moral defilements. --Buddha, The Dhammapada, Verse 402   Interested in live weekly classes with Joann Fox?  Visit www.Buddhismforeveryone.comongoing-buddhist-study-program/ to enroll or learn more.   Find us at the links below:  Website: BuddhismforEveryone.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Buddhismforeveryone Podcast Facebook Group: Join our private group at:https://www.facebook.com/groups/sanghatalk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buddhism.with.joann.fox

In this episode, spiritual director John Bruna continues teaching on the 16 attributes of the Four Noble Truths, as presented in the Text “Samsara, Nirvana, and Buddha Nature by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Venerable Thubten Chodron. This episode focuses on the second attribute of the First Noble Truth; the unsatisfactoriness of conditioned existence. John makes important distinctions between temporary pleasures and inner lasting happiness, so that we can relate to the conditions of this life in healthy ways and direct our energies toward true sources of happiness.  This episode was recorded on May 1st, 2024.Welcome to the Way of Compassion Dharma Center Podcast. Located in Carbondale, Colorado, the Way of Compassion Dharma center's primary objective is to provide programs of Buddhist studies and practices that are practical, accessible, and meet the needs of the communities we serve.  As a traditional Buddhist center, all of our teachings are offered freely. If you would like to make a donation to support the center, please visit www.wocdc.org.  May you flourish in your practice and may all beings swiftly be free of suffering.

In this session, spiritual director John Bruna begins teaching on the 16 attributes of the Four Noble Truths, as presented in the Text “Samsara, Nirvana, and Buddha Nature by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Venerable Thubten Chodron. He discusses the truth of impermanence and explains how understanding and accepting impermanence can relieve much suffering in our lives. This episode was recorded on April 24th, 2024.Welcome to the Way of Compassion Dharma Center Podcast. Located in Carbondale, Colorado, the Way of Compassion Dharma center's primary objective is to provide programs of Buddhist studies and practices that are practical, accessible, and meet the needs of the communities we serve.  As a traditional Buddhist center, all of our teachings are offered freely. If you would like to make a donation to support the center, please visit www.wocdc.org.  May you flourish in your practice and may all beings swiftly be free of suffering.

Uncovering how to find joy and freedom in any situation, Jack shares the roadmap for discovering peace within yourself.Learn the Dynamic Art of Interactive Guided Meditation with Jack Kornfield in this online masterclass cohort starting this June! Learn more and register at bit.ly/InteractiveCohortThis episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/heartwisdom and get on your way to being your best self.“Peace is the cessation of your struggle, it's putting down the burden and letting things be as they actually are.” – Jack KornfieldIn this episode, Jack mindfully explores:Learning to be at peace with yourself and the worldHow to meditate when it feels like you can't meditateThe way emptiness connects with compassionReconciling where peace meets strugglePeace as an internal state you can bring with youBeing Here Now, opening to life fully, and becoming intimate with all thingsHow we can find joy, liberation, and freedom in any situationDharma stories of the Buddha as well as the Bodhisattva VimalakīrtiComing to terms with the First Noble Truth of suffering, disappointment, and changeThe transformative power of meeting life exactly as it isWhat we can learn from both a “Duck Meditation,” “Goose Poem,” and a Tibetan PrayerLove and it's connection with courage“We can't come to rest because we're at war with what's actually here.” – Jack Kornfield“To enter into the unknown is really to enter into the moment.” – Jack KornfieldThis Dharma Talk originally recorded on 12/01/1989 at Spirit Rock Meditation Center was originally published on DharmaSeed.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"Life in the First Noble Truth" [Stolz]

In this episode, we dive deep into one of the Buddha's most influential teachings that has resonated through the ages - The Four Noble Truths. These four truths provide a framework for understanding the root of human suffering and the pathway to liberation.We begin by telling the iconic story of the Buddha's own journey - from a sheltered prince who knew none of the suffering in the world, to his confrontation with sickness, old age and death outside his palace walls. The trauma of these encounters motived Siddhartha Gautama to renounce his royal ties and seek understanding. After taking asceticism to its extremes then realizing enlightenment was not found there either, he meditated under the Bodhi tree and awakened.The Buddha realized that rather than the extremes of indulgence or deprivation, the middle way would lead to the end of suffering. This wisdom was encapsulated into the Four Noble Truths.The First Noble Truth declares that suffering exists and is part of our human experience due to impermanence and our fragile mortal nature. Our attempts to make things permanent actually causes more pain.The Second Noble Truth dives deeper - revealing that the root of suffering is attachment. Clinging to thoughts, ideas, identities and beliefs is what torments us when loss and change occurs.The Third Noble Truth offers hope - cessation of suffering IS possible by letting go of attachments. When we release our grip, we experience the blissful state of nirvana, which means “blowing out” like a candle.The Fourth Noble Truth maps out the Eightfold Path, the Buddha's recommended path to enlightenment. We also introduce an alternative framework called The Three Pillars of Liberation.Drinking from the wisdom of millennia, this profound teaching offers to liberate us in the midst of daily troubles that disrupt our peace. The Four Noble Truths diagnose the core human quandary, and prescribe a way out of unnecessary misery and into joy.Head over to http://LiberationCoachingAcademy.com to check out more about Zen Stoicism and learn about our trainings. 

This presentation by April Koester, one of our cadre of teachers, begins an extensive review of the Four Noble Truths, focusing on the inevitability of dukkha, the physical and mental suffering that comes with being alive.  During the talk, several participants share their questions and observations regarding this important and basic point of study and […]

Sometimes it can be a relief to hear the recognition offered in the First Noble Truth: that suffering exists and everyone experiences it. In addition to this fact, the Buddha taught that suffering can be ended.All of his teachings on achieving this freedom from suffering fall under two wings: wisdom and compassion. In this talk, infused with dharma songs, Eve Decker highlights a few of the numerous 'feathers' that make up each of these wings, including:WISDOMMindfulness - the capacity to inhabit the present moment rather than identify with our thoughts. COMPASSIONLoving Kindness (or befriending)CompassionAppreciative JoyEquanimity______________ Eve Decker has been practicing Insight Meditation since 1991, and has taught groups, daylongs, and short retreats since 2006, particularly at Spirit Rock, the East Bay Meditation Center, and elsewhere in the Bay Area. She is a graduate of UC Berkeley and of Spirit Rock's Path of Engagement and Community Dharma Leader training program, and has been trained in the Hakomi approach to body-based psychotherapy. Eve is also a singer/songwriter who has combined the power of music and dharma practice. Her most recent CDs are “In: Chants of Mindfulness & Compassion,” and “Awakening Joy - The Music.” Find her at https://evedecker.com/ Support the show______________ To participate live and be notified of upcoming speakers in advance, please Like us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/gaybuddhistfellowship) or visit https://gaybuddhist.org/calendar/ To support our efforts to share these talks with LGBTQIA audiences worldwide, please visit www.GayBuddhist.org.There you can: Donate Learn how to participate live Find our schedule of upcoming speakers Join our mailing list or discussion forum Enjoy many hundreds of these recorded talks dating back to 1996 CREDITSAudio Engineer: George HubbardProducer: Tom BrueinMusic/Logo/Artwork: Derek Lassiter

Buddha's teachings on impermanence empower practitioners to develop a mindset far less prone to suffering, anxiety, and worry. By embracing the ever-changing nature of existence, we create a wise and resilient approach to life's challenges. In this episode, listeners are encouraged to apply impermanence to something causing them to suffer.   Practical ways to apply impermanence to alleviate our suffering: Accepting Change: Impermanence teaches that all phenomena are transient and subject to change. Nothing in this world--including our emotions, relationships, material possessions, self, and others--is permanent. Accepting this constant flux can help us let go of attachments and unrealistic expectations. Reducing Attachment and Clinging: Attachment often leads to suffering when those attachments change or cease to exist. Understanding that everything is impermanent makes us less likely to cling to things, people, or situations. We can also remember the truth of impermanence to reduce attachment to something we want, or this truth can help us let go. Embracing impermanence creates a relaxed, accepting attitude toward life and other people. Wouldn't that be great!? Coping with Loss: Like Kisagotami in her famous story, recognizing that loss is a natural part of life can help us cope with death and other forms of separation. See if a gentle understanding that death is a part of life eases the pain. Buddha also said that every meeting ends in parting; does accepting this truth help?  Living in the Present: Impermanence emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment. Since the past is gone and the future is uncertain, focus on the present moment to fully experience and appreciate the richness of life. Focusing on the present moment can also keep us from being preoccupied with the past or what might happen. Easing Anxiety and Worry: Anxiety often arises from fear of the unknown or concerns about the future. Impermanence teaches that the future is inherently uncertain and that worrying about it is futile. To find some relief from anxiety, try to embrace the present moment and let go of excessive concern about the future.   Understanding the Nature of Life: Impermanence is closely tied to the First Noble Truth, which states that life is inevitably marked by suffering. Recognizing the impermanent nature of pleasurable and painful experiences can help us accept that suffering is a part of the human condition and that it's also impermanent. Encouraging Equanimity: Impermanence fosters the development of equanimity, the ability to remain calm and balanced in the face of life's ups and downs. When we understand that both joy and suffering are temporary, there is a greater capacity to face challenges with resilience and inner peace. Him I call a brahmana who wears robes made from rags (picked up from a dust heap), who is lean with veins standing out, who meditates alone in the forest. Verse 395 —Buddha, The Dhammapada References with Links Buddha (1986).The Dhammapada: Verses and Stories. Translated by Daw Mya Tin, M.A. (Website). Edited by Editorial Committee, Burma Tipitaka Association Rangoon. Courtesy of Nibbana.com. For free distribution only, as a gift of dhamma. Retrieved from https://www.tipitaka.net/tipitaka/dhp/verseload.php?verse=395 Find us at the links below:  Website: BuddhismforEveryone.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Buddhismforeveryone Facebook Group: Join our private group at:https://www.facebook.com/groups/sanghatalk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buddhism.with.joann.fox      

Hridayagita encourages reflection on the Four Noble Truths and particularly the first one as a way to quit running from or trying to fix samsara. Excerpted from the talk The First Noble Truth and The Space to Choose given at Taraloka Retreat Centre, 2016. *** Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast:  On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts Bite-sized inspiration three times every week. Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio podcast:  On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts A full, curated, quality Dharma talk, every week. 3,000,000 downloads and counting! Subscribe using these RSS feeds or search for Free Buddhist Audio or Dharmabytes in your favourite podcast service! Help us keep FBA Podcasts free for everyone: donate now! Follow Free Buddhist Audio: YouTube  |  Instagram  |  Twitter  |  Facebook  |  Soundcloud  

Life in the First Noble Truth [Stolz]

The first evening of the Interdependence Weekend Retreat, Andrew talks about the Wisdom of Dissatisfaction and how the dharma encourages us to embrace the difficulties in our lives rather than always seeking to fix, manage, and control ourselves into being better versions of ourselves. Enjoy!

Getting vulnerable about the hungers which afflict our lives, Jack helps us into the nirvana beyond the illusion of incompleteness.Today's podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp. Click to receive 10% off your first month with your own licensed professional therapist: betterhelp.com/heartwisdom“In Sanskrit or Pali the word is ‘Trishna,' which means thirst, desire, wanting. It's exaggeration, or the realm that it manifests in in the greatest way, is called ‘The Realm of the Hungry Ghosts.' Hungry Ghosts are pictured as these beings who have huge stomaches and tiny little mouths, so that it's never possible to get enough in there to ease that hunger.” – Jack KornfieldIn this episode, Jack vulnerably navigates:Hunger, abundance, deprivation, indulgence, addiction, and the illusion of incompletenessFeeling idiotic, depressed, needy, judgmental, sad, lonely, hungry, etcTrishna—thirst, desire, wanting—and the Realm of the Hungry GhostsSamsara and the propulsion of endless wanderings of seperation/seekingAjahn Chah and being with what is, rather than struggling against itRelating wisely and tenderly to Buddha's First Noble Truth of sufferingNirvana as the end of cyclical grasping and the illusion that we are incomplete“Nirvana is the end of cyclic existence, which is to say, the end of grasping and going around in circles looking for something that you are, but haven't yet touched—the end of the illusion that we are incomplete.” – Jack KornfieldThis Dharma Talk from 02/01/1987 was originally published on DharmaSeed.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this thought-provoking podcast episode, host Margaret Meloni interviews Bill Belanger, a contemplative psychotherapist and practicing Buddhist, as they delve into the concepts of suffering, attachment, and emptiness in Buddhism. Bill shares his background as a psychotherapist and his experiences living and practicing Buddhism in Asia, shedding light on the integration of meditation and therapeutic practices into the lives of entrepreneurs to improve their businesses.Bill's website is https://www.integratedmindtraining.com/ The conversation revolves around the Four Noble Truths and their relevance to the human condition. Bill explains how the First Noble Truth, Dukkha, can be understood as reactivity, and the Second Noble Truth as the origin of suffering through craving, attachment, and the Three Poisons. He further emphasizes the cure for suffering and the prescription for finding awakening, which is embodied in the Eightfold Path. Margaret and Bill also explore the Western approaches to suffering and how consumerism and rigid ideology fail to address the core issues of reactivity and attachment. They highlight the comprehensive analysis of suffering provided by Buddhism and its coherent and elegant solution that often eludes other approaches. Overall, this insightful episode offers practical guidance for incorporating mindfulness and therapeutic practices into daily life, while delving into the profound concepts of suffering, attachment, and emptiness in Buddhism. The hosts provide valuable insights and draw connections between attachment theory in Western psychotherapy and Buddhist teachings, underscoring the potential for healing and growth through self-reflection and mindful connection.

We live in biblical times. Fires and floods. Plagues. Or, pandemics. Learn about flash flooding in the Hudson Valley and the First Noble Truth.

In this talk, John Martin shares that our practice can lead us to a peace that is not dependent on the conditions of the outside world. It is cultivated by our internal practice and inner peace means freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts and emotions. Peace arises in those times when we are not fixated on the past or the future but on the current moment. Accepting the present moment allows us to make peace with this moment and thereby with the entire world, just as it is. "World peace develops from inner peace." ~ The Dalai LamaThrough practice, we begin to see that the cause of our mental suffering is wanting things to be different than they are. Yes, we have preferences and we work for change, but in each moment we must accept it as it is just now.  A great mystery and openness arises within us when we let go of our preferences. By doing this, we can meet each moment with compassion, which leads to peace. He speaks of the pali term Nibudi - a peaceful and relaxed mind. The Buddha taught that we can find peace in the midst of suffering by recognizing that resistance of the mind to dukkha creates its own suffering which is unnecessary. John shares how his relationship to physical pain changed once he accepted it as just another form of sensation, without judging it. This led him to a direct knowing of the First Noble Truth, that there IS suffering in our life and the world. When we accept this fact, we realize that it's not us -- it is life itself, and there is nothing wrong with us just because we experience dissatisfaction.______________ John Martin teaches Vipassana (Insight), Metta (Loving Kindness) and LGBTQIA+ meditation retreats. He leads an ongoing weekly Monday evening meditation group in San Francisco. He serves as Co-chair of the Guiding Teachers Council for Spirit Rock. His practice has been supported by twelve years as a hospice volunteer: including five years at Shanti Project during the AIDS crisis, and seven years with the Zen Hospice project.Find his upcoming events at: https://calendar.spiritrock.org/event-speaker/john-martin/ Support the show______________ To participate live and be notified of upcoming speakers in advance, please Like us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/gaybuddhistfellowship) or visit https://gaybuddhist.org/calendar/ To support our efforts to share these talks with LGBTQIA audiences worldwide, please visit www.GayBuddhist.org.There you can: Donate Learn how to participate live Find our schedule of upcoming speakers Join our mailing list or discussion forum Enjoy many hundreds of these recorded talks dating back to 1996 CREDITSAudio Engineer: George HubbardProducer: Tom BrueinMusic/Logo/Artwork: Derek Lassiter

The Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path are shorthand reminders of the Buddha's core teachings on how to live a peaceful, fulfilling life. The formula was developed by his followers after his death as the Buddha left no written records of his teachings.Note that although still in everyday use when referring to this subject the term Noble does not refer to aristocracy or any sort of superiority. It simply means truths that make you are better person.In this episode we explore The First Noble Truth. This states that we should be aware that life brings with it many forms of dissatisfaction, frustration, irritation, and many levels of suffering.On the face of it this may not seem too inspiring but in our conversation Martin and I explain why this is not the case. To find out more about our unique programme and how it can help you and your family business, please follow this link and download our brochure. Alternatively, you can email us Russ@familybusinesspartnership.comCopyright 2023 Russ Haworth and Martin Stepek

This review of the Second Noble Truth is presented by Lili Fernandez, one of the teachers who are being introduced to the Orlando Insight Meditation Group.  During this talk Lili describes the characteristics of craving and clinging, the two interactive elements that create the experience of dukkha, the First Noble Truth.  She also describes how […]

Andrew continues a series of talks on "The 3 Marks of Existence" speaking on the topic of Dukkha. Perhaps the first teaching that the Buddha offered was on the nature of our unhappiness and dissatisfaction in life, and his radical and somewhat paradoxical teaching of how embracing this aspect of our lives is actually a way to find deeper freedom and peace.

Allie Vaknin discusses the meaning and implications behind the First Noble Truth. Deepening one's understanding of the first truth is essential for understanding the subsequent truths, which collectively represent the Buddha's core teachings. As a Counselor Intern, Allie also draws from her experiences in counseling and weave in relevant concepts that resonate with the First […]

What is the term Dukkha?  Why is the First Noble Truth a difficult topic to chat about and why is it often misunderstood? In today's talk, Gregory goes back to the basics of discussing The First Noble Truth.   ABOUT HOST GREGORY MALOOF Gregory Maloof is a western Dharma teacher from the Ruth Denison lineage. The Dharma is freely given, but if you would like to support this podcast and pay it forward, you can donate and support it HERE Follow Gregory on Instagram @gregorymaloofdharma To learn about retreats, news, and classes first, CLICK HERE to keep in touch and get on the Wednesday Wake-Up mailing list.   Intro and Outro Music by Lenny Dinardo, Wave Em' In.

Join us on this episode as we explore suffering as it relates to the first noble truth in Buddhism. Our co-host, a Theravada Buddhist practitioner and life coach, Zaw  Maw, will delve into this topic to provide insights into how the first noble truth offers hope and why suffering is necessary for growth and transformation.Many Westerners misunderstand the concept of suffering in Buddhism, often associating it with a negative connotation. However, we shed light on the true meaning of suffering and how it can be viewed as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery.The conversation covers the meaning of the first noble truth and how it relates to our daily lives.  We offer practical advice (A Therapist's and a Buddhist's perspective) on approaching suffering in a way that can bring about positive change rather than feeling overwhelmed or defeated.Whether you are a seasoned Buddhist practitioner or new to the concept, Listeners will understand the importance of embracing suffering as part of the human experience and how the first noble truth can be a source of hope and inspiration. The episode highlights the transformative power of the first noble truth and how it can lead to a greater sense of purpose and meaning in life.Visit our website!Recovery Collective — Annapolis, MD (recoverycollectivemd.com)Zaw Maw — Recovery Collective — Annapolis, MD (recoverycollectivemd.com)Luke DeBoy — Recovery Collective — Annapolis, MD (recoverycollectivemd.com) New Episodes are released every Monday. Please send your questions to: luke@recoverycollectivemd.comThanks for listening, and please subscribe/comment/review/follow/like; if you think others would benefit from the podcast episode, share with others, as COLLECTIVELY, we can find solutions to all things health and wellness. The episodes contain content, including information provided by guests, intended for perspective, informational and entertainment purposes only. The content is not intended to replace or substitute for any professional medical, counseling, therapeutic, legal, or other advice. If you have specific concerns or a situation in which you require professional advice, you should consult with an appropriately trained and qualified professional expert and specialist. If you have a health or mental health emergency, please call 9-1-1 or 9-8-8 immediately.Explore a mindful path with Zaw Maw's coaching—Foster balance, healing, recovery, and meditation in your life's journey through his supportive and wisdom-based guidance.Support the show

ZaChoeje Rinpoche joins Raghu for a talk on being recognized as a Tulku (reincarnated Tibetan master) by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and the true nature of struggling.Help others improve their mental and emotional well-being, reduce stress, improve focus, increase self-awareness and self-regulation — all while deepening your own practice and understanding.Join Buddhist teacher David Nichtern and special guest Professor Robert Thurman for a free online program on Tuesday, February 14th at 6:00pm ET. Visit dharmamoon.com/beherenow for more info and to reserve your spot for the free info session!"The difference between the enlightened being and the un-enlightened being is: we are all struggling, but an enlightened being stops struggling over the struggles; and we struggle over the struggles. That is the truth of suffering." – ZaChoeje RinpocheIn this episode ZaChoeje Rinpoche and Raghu dive into:Growing up in India as a Tibetan refugee child, and becoming a monkBeing recognized as a Tulku (reincarnated Tibetan master) by His Holiness The Dalai LamaMoving to the U.S. and founding Emaho Foundation a Tibetan Buddhist center serving the greater Phoenix areaRetranslating the Buddha's First Noble Truth (the truth of struggling)Disentangling from getting caught in the story of the "Movie of Me" – the fixed idea of who we areThe role of devotion, faith, and guru in spiritual development through the lens of Tibetan BuddhismConnecting with the true nature of the mind as clear lightAn illuminating guided meditation practice on the sky like nature of mind and heartSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One way of practicing non-attachment can be expressed with the popular phrase, “Let go.” In verse 348 of the Dhammwpada, Buddha says, “ Let go of the past,  let go of the future, let go of the present.” But what does it mean to let go? When we are attached to something, we are attached because of the way we're thinking about it. For example, we don't suffer today because of what someone did to us in the past, but because of the resentment we are have thinking about it. If we worry about not having enough money in the future, it's not because that will actually happen (for how would we know), but because of how of we're thinking. To stop the suffering that comes with attachment to things of the past, present, and future, we first identify the obsessive or painful way we think about them. Then we find a new way to think about them that beings us peace and contentment rather than pain and longing. I like to call the practice:   “Let go into peace.”   This practice of non-attachment involves mindfully noticing the disturbing way of thinking, then replacing it with a beneficial way of thinking. In the example above with a past resentment, when we catch ourselves thinking about what someone did and it causing a painful feeling to arise, we change our thoughts to compassionate ones about that person who harmed us. We let go of resentment into something beneficial, compassionate.    Some ways to practicing letting go into something beneficial:   Let go of the past: forgive yourself, forgive others. Let go into lessons learned. Let go of regrets and guilt. If we understand impermanence, we know we're not even the same person. Let go into compassion for our self and lessons learned. Let go of the present; let go of expectations so you can enjoy.  Let go of the present and practice contentment. Enjoy the wonder of the moment.  Let go of the future and stop worrying. Have hope. Have faith that you can handle anything that comes.  Let go of the future, wishing for something obsessively, greener grass, and enjoy what you have. Let go and practice gratitude and contentment.    The verse Buddha spoke about keep letting go car from the story of Uggasena that follows.    The Story of Uggasena   “While residing at the Jetavana monastery, the Buddha uttered Verse (348) of this book, with reference to Uggasena, a rich man's son who fell in love with a dancer.   Once, a wandering theatrical troupe consisting of five hundred dancers and some acrobats came to Rajagaha and performed on the grounds of the palace of King Bimbisara for seven days. There, a young dancer who was the daughter of an acrobat sang and danced on top of a long bamboo pole. Uggasena, the young son of a rich man, fell desperately in love with this dancer and his parents could not stop him from marrying her. He married the young dancer and followed the troupe. As he was not a dancer nor an acrobat, he was not of much use to the party. So, as the party moved from place to place, he had to help carry boxes, to drive the carts, etc.   In course of time, a son was born to Uggasena and his wife, the dancer. To this child, the dancer would often sing a song which ran thus: "O you, son of the man who keeps watch over the carts; the man who carries boxes and bundles! O , you, son of the ignorant one who can do nothing!" Uggasena heard the song; he knew that his wife was referring to him and he was very much hurt and depressed. So he went to his father-in-law, the acrobat, and requested him to teach him acrobatics. After a year's training, Uggasena became a skilful acrobat.   Then, Uggasena went back to Rajagaha, and it was proclaimed that Uggasena would publicly demonstrate his skill in seven days' time. On the seventh day, a long pole was put up and Uggasena stood on top of it. At a signal given from below he somersaulted seven times on the pole. At about this time, the Buddha saw Uggasena in his vision and knew that time was ripe for Uggasena to attain arahatship. So, he entered Rajagaha and willed that the audience should turn their attention to him instead of applauding Uggasena for his acrobatic feats. When Uggasena saw that he was being neglected and ignored, he just sat on top of the pole, feeling very discontented and depressed. The Buddha then addressed Uggasena, "Uggasena, a wise man should abandon all attachment to the khandha aggregates and strive to gain liberation from the round of rebirths” (Daw Mya Tin, 1986).   Let go of the past,  let go of the future,  Let go of the present.  Gone beyond becoming,  With the mind released in every way,  You do not again undergo birth and old age. (348)*   —Buddha, The Dhammapada    References and Links   AccessToInsight.org. The First Noble Truth.   Buddha.The Dhammapada. Translated by Gil Fronsdale. (Kindle). Shambala, Boston and London, 2011. (Link)   Buddha (1986).The Dhammapada: Verses and Stories. Translated by Daw Mya Tin, M.A. (Website). Edited by Editorial Committee, Burma Tipitaka Association Rangoon. Courtesy of Nibbana.com. For free distribution only, as a gift of dhamma. https://www.tipitaka.net/tipitaka/dhp/verseload.php?verse=348 Find us at the links below:    Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Buddhismforeveryone Facebook Group:Join our private group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sanghatalk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buddhism.with.joann.fox

Buddha taught that no chains are as powerful as attachment, and nothing bonds us to suffering like our attachment. In the First Noble Truth, Buddha didn't just say, "Life is pervaded by suffering," but defined suffering:   In short, the five clinging-aggregates are dukkha (suffering).   "And what is the cause by which dukkha (suffering) comes into play? Craving is the cause by which dukkha comes into play.   The five aggregates are what make up everything, including our self: physical form, feelings, perceptions, mental fabrications, and consciousness. But the aggregates aren't the problem. It's everything in us that is clinging. In particular, pain and problems are caused by craving that leads us to be attached to something; whether we are attached to gems, children, our expectations, opinions, or money. Craving is an action; because it's an action, we can stop craving. If we can stop craving, we can stop suffering. Craving is the inappropriate attention we give to the object we want by dwelling on its desirable qualities. At first, we just encounter a desirable object or situation we want. But it is inappropriate attention---the thinking-dwelling-craving-- that eventually causes attachment to arise. Feed it long enough, and attachment will arise and bind us to what we want so tightly that we can't be satisfied without it. When we don't get what we're attached to, suffering follows like the shadow of a body.     So what can we feed our minds instead when we very much want something? We can feed it non-attachment. We can let go. Let go of others' opinions of us…let go of how others behave…let go of ideas about how an experience would be…let go of expectations of others…let go of needing a particular thing…let go of a person that isn't healthy for us. Practicing non-attachment in this way helps us let go of disappointment, dissatisfaction, and toxic situations. And wouldn't that be wonderful?   The wise do not say that bonds made of iron, of wood, and of hemp are strong bonds;  they say that only passionate attachment to and care for gems and jewelry, children and wives are strong bonds.  These drag one down (to lower planes of existence) and although they seem yielding are difficult to unfasten.  The wise, cutting off this bond (of craving) and resolutely giving up sensual pleasures, renounce the world. Verses 345 & 346: —Buddha, The Dhammapada    References and Links   AccessToInsight.org. The First Noble Truth.   Buddha.The Dhammapada. Translated by Gil Fronsdale. (Kindle). Shambala, Boston and London, 2011. (Link)   Buddha (1986).The Dhammapada: Verses and Stories. Translated by Daw Mya Tin, M.A. (Website). Edited by Editorial Committee, Burma Tipitaka Association Rangoon. Courtesy of Nibbana.com. For free distribution only, as a gift of dhamma. https://www.tipitaka.net/tipitaka/dhp/verseload.php?verse=345   Thanisarro Bhikku. The Clinging to End all Clinging. Tricycle Magazine, https://tricycle.org/article/end-clinging/ Find us at the links below:  https://www.facebook.com/Buddhismforeveryone Join our private group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sanghatalk/ https://www.instagram.com/buddhism.with.joann.fox  

This talk is republished with permission by Metta Centre, teaching retrieved from http://Dhamma Talks - Metta Centre. “One who sees dependent origination sees the Dhamma; one who sees the Dhamma sees dependent origination.” (MN 28) Come and take a deep dive with Ajahn Brahmali in the exploration of Dependent Origination. Dependent origination is one of the core teachings of the Buddha on conditionality: how conditions arise and how they cease, and is key to liberating wisdom. Ajahn Brahmali's practical and down-to-earth approach makes this complex teaching accessible and applicable to our daily lives. ‘When this exists, that comes to be; with the arising of this, that arises. When this does not exist, that does not come to be; with the cessation of this, that ceases… with the remainderless fading away and cessation of ignorance comes cessation of volitional formations; with the cessation of volitional formations, cessation of consciousness…. Such is the cessation of this whole mass of suffering.” (SN 12.37) This special event will include 30 mins of meditation, 1 hr talk, and 30 mins Q&A. 0:00 - Introduction 2:54 - Integrating one's work with spiritual practice 4:07 - Meditation 25:01 - Talk 26:43 - What is Buddhism? 31:15 - Simile of a handful of leaves 32:28 - Dangers of "philosophising" 34:53 - Buddhism as a positive psychology 36:38 - Dependent Origination intro 38:05 - First Noble Truth & rebirth 40:59 - Second Noble Truth 42:39 - Alternative formulation of the Second Noble Truth 43:49 - Craving, rebirth, suffering 48:32 - Craving leading to taking up 50:01 - Psychological insights 56:18 - Grasping skilfully 59:54 - Insights into our life 1:05:51 - Kamma and rebirth 1:07:22 - Causes of craving 1:09:37 - Feeling 1:10:41 - Contact (experience) and senses 1:11:42 - Consciousness 1:18:00 - Willed activities 1:20:21 - Delusions 1:24:37 - Self 1:27:07 - Overcoming ignorance 1:30:29 - Question: Sankara vs Bhava 1:34:13 - Question: Criminality, conditioning, repentance 1:38:41 - Question: Ignorance as the root of rebirth 1:40:02 - Question: Does rebirth require unknown physics? 1:43:31 - Question: Making choices 1:47:44 - Question: Descriptions of Dependent Origination 1:53:53 - Question: Aṅgulimāla 1:56:08 - Closing About the presenter Ajahn Brahmali was born in Norway in 1964. His interest in Buddhism and meditation started after a visit to Japan. Having completed degrees in engineering and finance, he began his monastic training as an Anagarika in England at Amaravati and Chithurst Buddhist Monasteries. Listening to the teachings of Ajahn Brahm, he decided to travel to Bodhinyana Monastery, located south of Perth, and has been there since 1994. He later received higher ordination with Ajahn Brahm as his preceptor. Ajahn Brahmali's knowledge of the Pali language and the Suttas is excellent. He has completed the only full translation of the Vinaya Piṭaka (Monastic Law) into English. It is available on the SuttaCentral website and will be published as a proper book in the next few years. Bhikkhu Bodhi, who translated most of the Pali Canon into English, called Ajahn Brahmali one of his major helpers for the recent translation of the “Numerical Discourses of the Buddha”. Ajahn Brahmali has also published a number of essays, including the book “The Authenticity of the Early Buddhist Texts” in collaboration with Bhante Sujato. Most of his publications are available online at bswa.org The monastics at Bodhinyana Monastery greatly appreciate Ajahn Brahmali's Sutta and Pali classes, and often rely on him to clarify the Vinaya (Monastic Law) or Suttas. Since 2013, Ajahn Brahmali has been giving regular talks at Dhammaloka Centre in Perth, and led ongoing courses on the Early Buddhist Teachings. Ajahn Brahmali's clear and thoughtful talks make the teachings of the Buddha easily accessible to all. He travels extensively in Australia, Asia and Europe to share his knowledge and experience through teachings and retreats. Facilitator: Tina Ng   Please support the BSWA in making teachings available for free online via Patreon. To find and download more precious Dhamma teachings, visit the BSWA teachings page: https://bswa.org/teachings/, choose the teaching you want and click on the audio to open it up on Podbean.  

Dharma talk on "The First Noble Truth" with InsightLA teacher, Wendy Block. InsightLA Long Beach, Sunday Sit, November 13th, 2022.

This is a recording from Cross River Meditation Center in Frenchtown, New Jersey. Our Dhamma classes are streamed live via Zoom on Tuesday at 7:15 pm, Thursday at 2:15 pm, and Saturday at 8:30 am Eastern Us Time. Join Live Through your web browse: https://zoom.us/j/9083919079  Join Live Through your Android device here: Zoom Android App  Join Live Through your IOS device here: Zoom IOS Ap   There are guided Jhana meditations, more than 300 restored Suttas and 800 Dhamma class recordings at Becoming-Buddha.com Each Dhamma class will have a Jhana meditation session followed by my Dhamma talk and Sangha discussion. We conclude with mindfulness of Metta.   New audio and video recordings are posted typically within twenty-four hours post-class:   Podcast/Audio Archive   Video Archive   If you are subscribed to my Podcast on Podbean or iTunes, you will receive notifications when new videos are posted.   To schedule private individual or group Dhamma instruction via video conference please  Email John  Please support  future recordings and the continued restoration, preservation, and presentation of the Buddha's Dhamma, please consider a donation: Support John and B ecoming-Buddha.com 

On the second evening of the five day Wild Heart Meditation Center residential retreat, Andrew talks about how we've been set up for survival rather than happiness. He talks about the Buddha's teaching on the second noble truth, how craving and clinging cause suffering, and how we often, unknowingly, exchange short term pleasure for long term unhappiness in our lives... and how we can break that cycle through mindfulness. enjoy!

(Auckland Insight Meditation) Exploring the relationship between dukkha (unsatisfactoriness, stress, distress, suffering) as the First Noble Truth, and mettā (kindness, good will, benevolence) as the first of the four brahmavihāra

(Auckland Insight Meditation) Exploring the relationship between dukkha (unsatisfactoriness, stress, distress, suffering) as the First Noble Truth, and mettā (kindness, good will, benevolence) as the first of the four brahmavihāra

This is a podcast on the 1st of the four noble truths of Buddhism. Many times this teaching is misunderstood in a very simplistic sense. I hope to provide context as well as understanding for the Mahayana practitioner of the Lotus Sutra. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/enkyoji-network/support

(Barre Center for Buddhist Studies) As the First Noble Truth, the Buddha pointed to dukkha: some experiences are painful; enjoyable experiences are impermanent; and all phenomena lack an enduring essence. Dukkha is routinely (mis)translated as “suffering” or “unsatisfactoriness” - but these are not inherent in it! The Buddha's liberating teaching in his Second Noble Truth is that it is tanha - “craving” - which turns dukkha into suffering. Biologically, we crave when we feel something is missing or wrong. So, in this conversation with Rick Hanson, we'll explore how to build up a sense of fullness and balance that's hardwired into the nervous system, and grow the inner strengths that can meet our needs without craving . . . and face the challenges of life with an unshakable core of contentment, love, and inner peace.

(Barre Center for Buddhist Studies) As the First Noble Truth, the Buddha pointed to dukkha: some experiences are painful; enjoyable experiences are impermanent; and all phenomena lack an enduring essence. Dukkha is routinely (mis)translated as “suffering” or “unsatisfactoriness” - but these are not inherent in it! The Buddha's liberating teaching in his Second Noble Truth is that it is tanha - “craving” - which turns dukkha into suffering. Biologically, we crave when we feel something is missing or wrong. So, in this conversation with Rick Hanson, we'll explore how to build up a sense of fullness and balance that's hardwired into the nervous system, and grow the inner strengths that can meet our needs without craving . . . and face the challenges of life with an unshakable core of contentment, love, and inner peace.

In this episode, hosts Kate and Alex take a deep dive into the Four Noble Truths of Buddhism, with particular emphasis on the First Noble Truth commonly translated as “life is characterized by suffering.” They unpack some of the linguistic and cultural misunderstandings that can get in the way of the deeper message of this teaching. They connect the four existential givens of death, meaning, isolation, and freedom, to Buddhism and discuss ways of working with these unavoidable challenges in everyday life. Alex Gokce, MSW has a master's degree in social work from Salem State University and an undergraduate degree in Comparative Government from Harvard University. He has led psychotherapy groups on topics including mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and mind-body approaches to pain management. He has co-led programs at the Boston Shambhala Center on the topics of trauma and self-compassion. His personal and professional interests center around the individual, societal and intergenerational impacts of trauma, as well as the sociocultural roots of interpersonal harm. Katherine (Kate) King, PsyD is a clinical psychologist and assistant professor of psychology at William James College. She has a private psychotherapy practice where she works primarily with older adults and individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, and chronic medical conditions. She also has a special interest in supporting the well-being of helping professionals. She is involved in research exploring topics such as death anxiety, narrative medicine, and clinical training. Kate is a longtime vajrayana student of Tibetan Buddhism, and has practiced meditation for over 20 years. Learn more at www.drkateking.com. Join our free Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/noblemind. For past episodes, show details, and to join our email list, visit www.noblemindpodcast.com.

When it comes to the practices of lovingkindness & compassion in Buddhist psychology, it's pretty well understood that if we only practice these things, we can end up getting attached to the way we think things are supposed to be. … And want to run off into the mountains when things don't go as we want them to. We want to check out. Withdraw. … Or we may grasp and struggle with the world rather than serving it. We resist and we fight. This is why equanimity if often taught along with compassion and lovingkindness. Equanimity does not mean indifference or callousness. Indifference is based on fear.  True equanimity is not a withdrawal from life. It is a balanced engagement with all aspects of life. It embraces the loved and unloved. The things that being us pleasure and the things that don't. Knowing that all things are of the nature to change – ourselves, others, the world - with equanimity, we're able to be fully present and in harmony with it. When we don't have equanimity, we get hooked by things, like we're in a trance. But if we're present in it, we're less likely to react to things that activate us, and instead are more free to respond. We're more likely to be able to access our wise mind and respond to life with compassion and lovingkindness (metta), forgiveness, and we're more open to joy, too.   We open ourselves up to joy and pain. Because we really connect with ourselves and others in both of these states, right? Now, the reality of suffering as part of the human condition is talked about in the First Noble Truth. It's really hard to embrace this, right? And sure, it could be seen as a bummer. But it's so essential to understand the reality of suffering, because that also helps us understand how to end it. After all, pain is not the same as suffering. Pain is inevitable, and suffering is optional. The whole purpose of Buddhist psychology, its ethics (or sila), philosophy, practices, and ways of living in community, is the discovery that freedom and straight up joy are possible, even in the face of the suffering we experience as humans. Now, while pain is inevitable, suffering is not. Pain happens just y being born a human. If nothing else, we all experience sickness, old age, and death. But we also experience abundance and scarcity, love and hate, pain and joy... Suffering, however, is caused by our reaction to the hard parts of life, to the pain. It arises from grasping, from attachment to what we want and how we want the world to be. Our personal suffering can include anxiety, depression, fear, confusion, grief, anger, addiction… but it's not just personal.  Our collective suffering grows from human greed, hatred, and ignorance, creating things we see all around us: warfare and racism, unnecessary hunger, sickness, and abandonment of humans all over the world. That First Noble Truth is what we are working on understanding and transforming. The Second Noble Truth helps us understand the grasping, or attachment – the cause of the suffering. Attachment to things needing to be a certain way leads us to also having an aversion towards some things, and even incorrect views of what's going on, of the nature of existence.  Then we get all messed up and start to experience that unnecessary suffering that looks like anger, hatred, anxiety, buffering and addiction, jealousy…  Freedom from suffering is possible when we let go of our need for things to be different than they are.  So nirvana, my friends, is not some place with clouds and rainbows or cosmic stars and supernovas. This is nirvana. I think of it as a letting go of the need for things to be different than what they are and therefore letting go of our suffering, our fear and grasping.  And I'm not saying I hang out here or know this space well, even. What I am saying is the more I learn and the more I talk with my teachers who have a much more intimate knowledge of nirvana themselves, I realize it is not a place of escape or transcendence of this world, but rather a very intimate knowing of the true nature of this world, and a letting go of how we need it to be. This is true freedom. Equanimity is part of the middle way, which helps us, amidst the pain of the world and of ourselves and others, to experience peace wherever we are, here and now. When we're present in equanimity, it's not that we don't have a response at all. It's that we're less likely to react to things that activate us in an unconscious way, and instead are more free to respond with access our wise mind and respond to life with compassion.   This is really different from an attitude of indifference. Some people think equanimity is experiencing the world and not having any response to it. Like…meh. Like my patients that had low testosterone. They didn't feel awful, but they also didn't feel stoked about anything. Or upset or angry about anything. Just…meh. That's not equanimity. When we don't grasp at or resist life as it is – in a state of equanimity - we can live wide awake and experience true freedom -  in the midst of, as its said, the 10,000 joys and 10,000 sorrows.  Equanimity teaches us how to not run away. How not to get overwhelmed. It teaches us how to lean into the world. How to stay present. How to not become incapacitated by our caring. Only by courageously opening to the sorrow of the world as it is do we find our freedom.In this Episode you'll learn:// The difference between equanimity and indifference// What makes pain inevitable but suffering optional// Why nirvana isn't what you think// Where Western psychology falls short when it comes to suffering// How to cultivate equanimity in everyday life// How equanimity helps us stop running away Resources:// Episode 60: How to Avoid Unnecessary Suffering // Episode 63: Being Human is Hard - The First Noble Truth // If you want to start integrating all of you into this one precious life we have, apply for the Adventure Mastermind. It's Soul Work. Deep work. Important, necessary, and essential to what the world needs right now. Be a part of it.If you're remotely curious, apply. It will help you get clear, and then we can chat to see if it's actually a good fit. Trust me – it's an intense 6 months so I am just as invested as you are in making sure it's an amazing match. Head over to AdventureMastermind.com and apply for the Summer cohort. We have 2 altered states retreats, weekly coaching, virtual retreats, and more. I've got you! // If you're new to the squad, grab the Rebel Buddhist Toolkit I created at RebelBuddhist.com. It has all you need to start creating a life of more freedom, adventure, and purpose. You'll also get access to the Rebel Buddhist FB group, and tune in weekly when I go live on new topics. // Want to dive into this work on a deeper level on your own time? To study it and practice it together with a group of people with the same goals of freedom, adventure and purpose? Check out Freedom School – the community for ALL things related to freedom, inside and out.

Ajahn Karunadhammo discusses coping with difficulties, not simply rejecting them, and attending to virtuous actions. This talk was given on May 7, 2022.

This week is Episode 100 of the Rebel Buddhist Podcast! If you're new to the pod, then welcome! If you've been around for a while - welcome BACK! Today, I want to talk about how to know if you're making progress on your spiritual path. Often, we think we're not, but it's usually because we are attached to our expectations… how we think progress is supposed to look. By now, I'm sure you've heard that being attached to expectations can really screw us in the end and make us pretty unhappy. Our personal growth path is no exception. Spiritual stages are often depicted as this linear, simple, progressive route. You get from point A to B in the most efficient way. And that's not fully wrong… but in the end, our path isn't linear. At least, that's been my own experience and observation. In fact, if we look at practitioners of any tradition, it's challenging to find one which has a simple, linear path. Still, we have this image that if we meditate enough, we'll have this moment of bliss and feel connection with all and be forever changed. Just. Like. That. And wouldn't it be so convenient if the path to enlightenment was orderly and predictable and linear? But like any proper adventure, it's filled with detours, landslides, or even avalanches that can block the road or send us on a detour for a good amount of time. I've found that our path - when accompanied by practice - often looks more like an upward spiral. We don't just transcend over an issue then never see it again, nor do revisit it over and over in the same way like a looping circle. Rather, we revisit the same teachings and lessons, but as we progress along that upward spiral, we have a different perspective, new skills, and a slightly different way of approaching it. Sometimes, when I revisit a lesson in life, it's like, “Really? I'm here again?” And it can be frustrating. But then I look closer and see that things are in fact different and I have made progress. So we have to remember that revisiting challenges doesn't always mean there is a lack of progress, because each time, we can reframe and respond to that situation differently. And we often do, which is apparent to us when we look closely. We can't capture freedom and just place it at a moment in time. Freedom is the journey itself. Like peeling back the layers of an onion or switchbacks on a mountain. How can we know that we've made progress, even as we're revisiting these old lessons and challenges over and over? Phillip Moffitt once said to me, “You know you're making spiritual progress if your suffering is of less intensity, less frequency, or shorter duration. Notice he didn't say that all 3 have to be present at once. The “or” in there is key. Sometimes, we just let go of something slightly faster, or we have a less intense emotional outburst, or we didn't hold a grudge as long as last time. These are celebrations that we often dismiss. Instead, we feel disappointed because we wish we hadn't experienced that challenge ever again. This past weekend at a business conference, one of the coaches told us “Massive Action won't save you from the human experience.” That's what I think the Buddha was teaching in the Four Noble Truths about suffering. Here, it shows up here as your spiritual path won't save you from the human experience. After all, part of the human experience is suffering. It's part of the deal of being born in a body with this brain between our ears and being thrown into a world with a bunch of other humans who are doing this for the first time. Another thing that I've noticed is that we tend to forget that progress is going to require practice in everyday life, not just in grand gestures. It's a lifelong practice for a lifelong lesson. The lessons we revisit are really more like life lessons vs one-time challenges. We're meant to get better at them over our lifetime (that spiral). So yes, it's also a long-haul deal. We have to do more than just read “shelf-help” books or attend workshops or retreats. We need to apply the work in our daily lives. In how we wake up, what thoughts we choose to bookend our day with. How we treat ourselves and others. Finally, I want to remind you that the path is often not very pretty. Often, a successful meditation practice is the fact that you recognize that your mind is all over the place. That you get bored or distracted or start to doubt. Remember that it takes a minute to calm the mind! It takes practice. And there will be good days and bad days and all kinds of days in between. Maybe this isn't just something you deal with in your spiritual practice. Maybe you're harsh with yourself and your progress in other aspects of your life, like your business goals, your relationships, or your art. No matter where it appears in your life, if you're judging your progress, then you're going to miss the progress you are making. So let yourself celebrate the incremental progress you are making. Remember that it's a gradual process and that small changes can have big future impacts. It all counts, my friends. In fact, I bet you're further along in your path than you ever imagined. In this Episode you will learn:// Why expectations can ruin our progress// Why our path is less like a line and more like a spiral// How revisiting challenges does not signify a lack of progress// How to know you're making spiritual progress – and progress in other areas of your life// Why we can't escape suffering and the human experience – even with tons of spiritual practice// The importance of daily practice on our path Resources:// Episode 60: How to Avoid Unnecessary Suffering // Episode 63: Being Human is Hard - the First Noble Truth // If you're new to the squad, grab the Rebel Buddhist Toolkit I created at RebelBuddhist.com. It has all you need to start creating a life of more freedom, adventure, and purpose. You'll also get access to the Rebel Buddhist FB group, and tune in every Wednesday at 11:30am PST as I go live. // Want to dive into this work on a deeper level? To study it and practice it together? Check out Freedom School – the community for ALL things related to freedom, inside and out. It's also where you can get individual help applying the concepts to your own life. It's where you can learn new coaching tools not shared on the podcast that will blow your mind even more, and it's where you can connect over all things freedom with other freedom junkies just like you and me. It's my favorite place on earth and it will change your life, I guarantee it. Come join us at JoinFreedomSchool.com. I can't wait to see you there.

In this podcast, Sharon Salzberg joins Sounds True's founder, Tami Simon, to discuss her recent book, Real Change: Mindfulness to Heal Ourselves and the World—and how you can begin to bring the core of your being into your work, your community, and your life. Sharon and Tami also discuss how contemplative practices can open the heart, agency and reclaiming your power to effect change, the empowering symbol of the Statue of Liberty, transforming anger into courage, determining the next step you can take when you're uncertain, patience, faith as the act of giving over your heart, generosity and how you end up with more through giving, moving from grief to resilience, suffering and the First Noble Truth, the role of joy on the path, living by the truth of interconnection, caring to know as the first step in making a difference, and a sneak preview of Sharon's forthcoming book, Real Life.

This week Gregory gives a primer to the first noble truth and how to apply it to grow in sensitivity to the human suffering around us.   ABOUT HOST GREGORY MALOOF Gregory Maloof is a western Dharma teacher from the Ruth Denison lineage. If you have been receiving benefit and want to support Gregory Maloof as a teacher directly, please donate HERE Follow Gregory on Instagram @gregorymaloofdharma To learn about retreats, news, and classes first, CLICK HERE to keep in touch and get on the Wednesday Wake-Up mailing list.   Join us Live - https://www.meetup.com/wednesday-wake-up-meditation-group/ Intro and Outro Music by Lenny Dinardo, Wave Em' In.