“The Unforeseen”, (the unexpected, the unanticipated), namely our experience of the “future” arriving into the present. Jonathan will develop our concept of time, notably the present, past and future, as actually experienced. These distinctions may be “arbitrary”, even overlap and may be illusory. We may believe that we “live” in the present, but may not fully “know” this realm, as our attention, focus, beliefs, conditioning and expectations exert their power, often unknowingly. Thus, we are repeatedly vulnerable to “the shock of the real”, the intrusion of Actuality. This is Buddhism 101: Dukkha, the Four Great Sights and Samvega.
This talk will be held in person at the Library only. Please register if you wish to attend.
Teacher profile
Dr. Jonathan Page
Dr Jonathan has been a medical oncologist for 36 years and enjoys endurance cycling. He began his meditation practice in 1984 but to his chagrin was largely an erratic practitioner until 2004, generally employing meditation as a last resort to manage innumerable life crises (with variable impact).
He was persuaded to be more diligent in his meditation with the onset of a more difficult-to-shift despondency, particularly burnout mixed with depression. These were poorly managed by the “orthodox” medical establishment. Thankfully, over time, this crisis yielded to regular meditation and the comfort of the Three Jewels.
All Sessions are by Donation (Dana) to the Buddhist Library. All donations to the Buddhist Library of $2 and over are tax deductible.
Dana is the traditional practice of generosity, the extending of one’s goodwill, which is fundamental to Buddhism and other spiritual traditions. The dana you give is shared equally with the teacher and the Buddhist Library. This helps to maintain the Library and supports the teacher so that they may offer more teachings on the Dhamma in the future. It is up to each person to determine the amount of dana they’d like to offer. We understand that this is a difficult time financially for many, and people will give what they can. An appropriate dana can’t be prescribed but requires sensitivity to its intent and to the individual’s own situation, as well as awareness of the cost of organising events and supporting teachers who spread the Dhamma.