Dave Smith Dharma: Recent Episodes

dave smith

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As a Dharma teacher, my primary focus of interest has been in early Buddhism. This being the oldest record of what the historic Buddha may have taught. These teachings have been well preserved in a body of text known as the Pali canon, which is the core focus of the Theravada tradition. Within this massive volume of work lies the message that has been left behind for all of us to explore for ourselves. The radical notion that everything that we need to overcome suffering in this lifetime is inside each one of us. The Buddha is said to have taught one thing, suffering and the end of suffering. Dharma practice is a system of living that requires meditative training, ethical and compassionate actions and behaviors, and a wise understanding of the limitations of the human condition. Whether teaching residential retreats, weekly classes, study series or working one-on-one with individuals I provide a Dharmic system that integrates four core components.

1). Mindfulness: the four foundations of mindfulness 2). Dependent origination: Buddhist psychology 3). The four noble truths: the process of awakening 4). Heart practice: the four brahma-viharas (kindness, compassion, appreciation, and equanimity)

Currently, I am pursuing these interests as a practitioner, teacher, mentor and writer. My intention is to continue to provide learning opportunities through online classes and retreats, working with individuals to strengthen their meditative practices and to provide an accurate and pragmatic framework for the Buddha’s Dharma. Please contact me if you are interested in working together in whatever capacity may serve you. satisila74@gmail.com

I hope to see you on the path.

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From our Sunday mentoring group. Feel free to join us if you dare...

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Heavy metta. Offered to the crew at Heavy Metta Chicago. Thanks Jay!

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What is Insight? hmm...

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A talk on right view as it pertains to dependent origination amongst other important items - Enjoy!

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Second night talk at Vallecitos Retreat with Vance Pryor. Trusting the process, thus I have heard.

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All things gratitude - evening heart practice from Vallecitos.

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Evening metta practice, day one at Vallecitos Mountain Retreat Center with Vance Pryor.

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Reflections on a key term found within the Insight tradition. From the Sunday mentoring group, join us HERE.

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From the Sunday mentoring group. To find out more click HERE.

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Time and time again, the Buddha refused to answer the BIG questions. Buddhism did not take that advice -- here are the questions the Buddhas says are irrelevant to awaking. Thus I have heard.

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Final talk at RMERC. Metta Vipassana retreat. The Dharma is a story of redemption, not salvation.

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I put this on my dave smith dharma as well as Secular Dharma Foundation because it is so GOOD!

Mark earned his PhD and Master’s degrees in Philosophy from the University of Edinburgh under the legendary cognitive philosopher Andy Clark, focusing heavily on the embodied and predictive brain. Today, his work spans across multiple prestigious global institutions. He serves as a Senior Research Fellow at Monash University’s Centre for Consciousness and Contemplative Studies in Australia, is an Instructor and Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Toronto within their Psychology and Cognitive Science departments, and acts as a Visiting Researcher at Hokkaido University’s Centre for Human Nature, Artificial Intelligence, and Neuroscience in Japan. He is also the Lab Manager for U of T’s Consciousness and Wisdom Lab.

Alongside his frequent collaborator, Dr. John Vervaeke, Mark works directly at the bleeding edge of 4E Cognition and Predictive Processing—exploring how our brains act as active, prediction-generating engines rather than passive observers. Whether he is breaking down the rigid cognitive loops of addiction and despair, hosting The Contemplative Science Podcast, or leading his groundbreaking 8-week course, Generations of Joy on The Lectern, Mark is dedicated to bridging rigorous computational neuroscience with ancient contemplative wisdom.

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Deep within the Burmese tradition, sila as a contemplative practice. RMERC.

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Talk two from Rocky MT Eco Dharma. Liberation.

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Talk 2 from Metta Vipassana LA. The mind aka the thing that you are.

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talk one from the metta vipassana retreat in LA. Desire and faith are explored.

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Talk one from Rocky Mt Eco Dharma.

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Given after the Metta Vipassana Retreat thru Insight LA with Melissa McKay. This talk was given at the Center on Olympia in Santa Monica

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Given for the essential dharma online course.

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From Monday night class at the Durango Dharma Center: https://www.durangodharmacenter.org/

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From the Sunday Mentoring Group. To join the mentoring program you can find out more HERE

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A talk on the Noble Question (MN 26). Given at Insight Denver. https://www.insightdenver.org/

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From a live event in the fall of 2025. A youtube video, uploaded audio here due to high demands. You are welcome.

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Come sit at Vallecitos!

Ñāṇavīra Thera (born Harold Musson, 1920–1965), an English monk whose work is a cornerstone for those interested in the intersection of the Pali Suttas and phenomenological philosophy. He is best known for his radical, "vertical" approach to the Dhamma, which bypasses traditional commentaries to focus on the immediate structure of personal experience.The primary collection of his later work is titled "Clearing the Path", which includes his seminal book and his extensive correspondence.

Notes on Dhamma (1960–1965): This is his most influential work. It consists of highly technical entries intended to correct common misinterpretations of the Suttas. He famously discarded the "three-life" traditional model of paṭiccasamuppāda (dependent arising) in favor of a structural, timeless interpretation.

vThe Phenomenological Approach: Ñāṇavīra used the tools of Western existentialists—like Sartre, Heidegger, and Kierkegaard—not as a substitute for the Dhamma, but as a way to clear away "objective" or scientific biases. He argued that the Dhamma must be understood from a "vertical" view—looking directly into the abyss of one’s own existence.

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The overlooked power of the creative mind. Religion hates this kind of thing...

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Unpacking the teachings of right effort aka samma vayama.

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Always a big thanks to Sangha Live!

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From the Sunday mentoring group. Consider joining us: https://www.davesmithdharma.com/mentoring/

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How do the bramha viharas fit into the satipatthan? A person description.

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Buried in my zoom folder, sometime 2025.

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Sunday morning reflections on this overused and under defined term. To join these live session, consider our mentoring program.

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From the 2025 archives. More to come on this soon. Check out posted 2026 programs : https://linktr.ee/davesmithdharma

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From NYE retreat, Bay St. Louis. Flowering Lotus: https://www.floweringlotusmeditation.org/

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Get some. Collect and connect.

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The mind, its structure and functionality aka citta.

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Metta-Vipassana is an integrated practice that unites the Four Foundations of Mindfulness (Vipassana) with Metta practices (Brahmavihāras). Vipassana meditation (insight or mindfulness practice) connects the richness of our shared human experience with the immediacy of moment-to-moment awareness. As the body and mind learn to settle, intuitive wisdom emerges. This wisdom allows us to fully open to the entirety of each moment, both within and around us. By cultivating this openness, we increase our capacity and interest in meeting life’s joys and sorrows with ease and presence.

Metta practice (kind-friendliness) calls forth and strengthens beautiful spiritual emotions within the heart: kindness, care, joy, and equanimity. Mindfulness of these qualities helps bring them to full fruition. This process directs our life's energy toward awakening our full potential, providing a stable foundation for contentment, purpose, and meaning...thus I have heard.

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Guided practice session from overview.

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Night one talk. NYE retreat in Bay St. Louis.

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Morning one, overview of sila bramha vihara. NYE retreat, Bay St Louis MS.

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Final reflection for 2025, attempt to wrap up some thoughts on the year. Join me for programs in 2026: https://linktr.ee/davesmithdharma

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From the weekly mentoring group, to join find out more HERE.

Can can also sing up for my new Essential Dharma Course HERE

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Random talk from Sunday mentoring group. If you would like to be part of this group you can see more HERE.

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Opening lecture from the Ghost Ranch, Authenticity in an Artificial World. Brief history of mindfulness address the two streams if vipassana and secular mindfulness.

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Dave and Mikey Livid (Wild Heart Nashville). In collaboration with Flowering Lotus Meditation. You can sign up for the retreat at this link: https://register.etransfer.com/cgi-bin/acct/VDEYW88NN1/displayForm.pl?dir=KOT2WZYK_2025

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Reflections from Chiang Mai. In proper dedication to my teacher and mentor, Steven Smith. More to come....

The Roots in the Sagaing Hills: Metta Vipassana

The Sagaing Hills of Myanmar are the spiritual epicenter where the two dominant forms of modern Burmese Buddhism originated. This region is revered for its "patipatti-minded" monks who prioritize meditative practice (paṭipatti) over mere scholarship.

Mahasi Tradition: The foundation of the widespread Mahasi Sayadaw movement was laid at the Thameikdawdaya Nunnery in Sagaing. A pivotal encounter there in 1947 led to Sir U Thwin inviting Mahasi Sayadaw to lead a new center in Rangoon, launching a movement that would rapidly sweep across Southeast Asia.

Ledi/Goenka Lineage: The area is also linked to the lineage popularized by U Goenka. The suggestion that Ledi Sayadaw learned Vipassana deep in the Hills underscores Sagaing's reputation. Furthermore, Sitagu Sayadaw, a contemporary friend of U Goenka and influential teacher, established his major academic and practice centers at the foot of the Hills, cementing the region's enduring legacy as a site for intense practice.

Sayadaw U Pandita: The Synthesis of Pāli Text and Practice

This practice-oriented tradition was synthesized, systematized, and exported by Sayadaw U Pandita (1921–2016), the scholarly successor to Mahasi Sayadaw. U Pandita's life embodied the necessary dual commitment to study and application.

Scholarly Foundation

U Pandita was first a distinguished scholar of the Pāli Canon, earning the prestigious title Abhivamsa and serving as a corrector in the Sixth Sangha Council (1956). His profound textual knowledge ensured the authenticity of the tradition he taught.

Integration with Meditation

At age 29, U Pandita began practice under Mahasi Sayadaw, gaining the crucial realization that textual study must be complemented by the practical application of meditation. This conviction led him to leave his teaching post to become a meditation master. He insisted that a teacher must have a careful study of the Pāli texts—which he championed as providing precise practical guidance for practice—completed by direct meditative realization. His teaching hierarchy placed the Pāli texts (such as the Satipaṭṭhāna Sutta) as the highest authority, followed by commentaries and the lineage, with one’s personal views carrying the least weight.

The Bridge to the West

U Pandita became the critical bridge for transmitting the Mahasi lineage's rigorous methods to the West. The turning point was a historic 1984 retreat at the Insight Meditation Society (IMS) in Massachusetts, where he guided the generation that became the most senior Western teachers.

His method, rooted in the Satipaṭṭhāna Sutta and the analytical framework of the Abhidhamma, was characterized by:

Rigorous Mindfulness: Training in satipaṭṭhāna practice with extreme precision and energy, primarily using the detailed noting technique.

Ethical Foundation (Sīla): His insistence on the purity of morality (sīla) as a foundational and necessary precursor to concentration (samādhi) and wisdom (paññā), following the structure of the Visuddhimagga.

Compassionate Practice: The intensive, long-term practice of the brahmavihāras (loving-kindness, compassion, etc.).

This powerful synthesis—precise, textually-grounded mindfulness paired with the brahmavihāras—profoundly shaped the contemporary presentation of Vipassana meditation in the West, ensuring that the legacy which began in the humble Sagaing Hills continues to flourish globally.

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talk given for Insight Denver, via zoom: https://www.insightdenver.org/

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Given as part of the Monday night series at the Durango Dharma Center. https://www.durangodharmacenter.org/

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This talk was given for the Sunday mentoring group session. It discusses the role of metaphor, pointing to the fact the the primary metaphor is one of entrapment NOT pain and suffering. If you are interested in the mentoring program HERE

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Morning 3, guided gratitude as awareness practice. Montana retreat, Bozeman Dharma Center.

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Final talk, Montana retreat, Bozeman Dharma Center.

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Evening 2 bramha vihara session, metta. Montana retreat, Bozeman Dharma Center.

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Talk number 2 from the Montana retreat, Bozeman Dharma Center. The integration of the bramha viharas and the four noble truths.

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Evening 1 heart practice session. Overview of sila-bramha-vihara with guided instructions.

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Day 2, morning session. Cultivating awareness. Montana retreat, Bozeman Dharma Center

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Talk 1 from Montana retreat, Bozeman Dharma Center.

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Morning 1 overview and instructions. Bozeman Dharma Center Retreat.

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Final talk from Vallecitos. The three trainings of the 8 fold path are outlined and described.

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Evening heart practice from Vallecitos. Compassion in appreciate as they are outlined in the abhidharma (manual on Buddhist psychology)

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Evening Bramha vihara session with a focus on metta/kindness. Check out my program at the Ghost Ranch in November. HERE

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Talk 1 from Vallecitos "natural awareness" retreat. If you find these episodes useful, please consider dropping me some support. You can venmo or paypal at this page: https://www.davesmithdharma.com/contact/

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From Big Heart City Friday night class.

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Final talk at Vallecitos - July 2025.

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Second talk at RMERC.

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Talk 3 at RMERC. Natural Awareness Retreat.

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The talk is from Vallecitos, and covers the teaching on the four foundations of Mindfulness.

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From the Sunday weekly mentoring group. If you are interested in our mentoring program you can find out more HERE

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Over of gratitude and guided practice from Vallecitos.

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Given at Wild Heart in Nashville, just before the Southern Dharma retreat.

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Full audio sessions from my 4 week course for New York Insight. Begins with an overview of 4 noble truths, intro sessions, conversations with Stephen Batchelor and then live teaching sessions from the course. If you find these audio offerings of benefit please consider dropping me some cash. This shit takes a lot of time, everything is appreciated. https://www.davesmithdharma.com/contact/

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2 talks put together from the Sunday mentoring program. Find out more HERE

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Talk three from retreat at Southern Dharma, mindfulness and the four noble truths.

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Talk two from retreat at Southern Dharma, mindfulness and the four noble truths.

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Talk one from retreat at Southern Dharma, mindfulness and the four noble truths.

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This talk was given for Big Heart City.

During this talk Shannon offers perspectives on the Dharma as being good in the beginning, middle, and end. Many thanks to Vinny for the invite. Enjoy.

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Given for my good friends at Sangha Live: https://sangha.live/dharma-library-archive-sunday-sangha-recordings/ . This talk offers current perspectives on the world and how we might relate to it, without all the victimhood.

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Found within the Zen tradition, this talk explores the paradox of a sudden awakening followed by a gradual cultivation. It explores the idea of what does it mean to "practice". This was given in person at the Durango Dharma Center. https://www.durangodharmacenter.org/

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This is by far the longest and most thorough talk on the 8 fold path that you will ever find. 5:55. I spliced it all together here for you because it is what I do. If you want to offer some support and send some $$ my way. Much appreciated. https://www.davesmithdharma.com/contact/

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Existential, therapeutic, contemplative, ethical.

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Due to much chatter amongst the crowd, I have further unpacked my thoughts around the previous rant. Come and see fo yo self.

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The dark side of the Dharma is real, and mostly ignored. Some thoughts on the matter.

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This talks highlights the reality that the attention economy is over, we are now in the addiction economy. You have been warned. Double down on your practice. This talk was given at the DSD mentoring group. If you are interested in joining you can check out this LINK.

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Final talk from my NYE Retreat in Bay St. Louis Mississippi. Thanks to Flowering Lotus Meditation. https://www.floweringlotusmeditation.org/

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A talk from my Sunday mentoring group. You can find out more HERE

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Meditation instruction overview from morning session day 1. Flowering Lotus Meditation, NYE retreat in Bay Louis Mississippi.

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First mentoring session of 2025. From my Sunday program. We do have space for new students. You can find out more: https://www.davesmithdharma.com/mentoring/

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Talk number 5 Big Bear Retreat. A secular perspective on the 8-fold path. Compliments to Stephen Batchelor.

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This the opening talk from the Big Bear, sure hearts' release retreat. It covers my approach to the practice.

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Talk number 4 from the Big Bear Retreat. It covers the idea of stream entry and nibbana.

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Talk 2 from the Big Bear retreat. Refections on right view as a complete perspective. A secular vision.

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Talk number 3, Big Bear Retreat. This talk covers the entire dimension of the 2nd noble truth. Without the noble truth crap.

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This talk discusses how to cultivate a middle way between the having mode and the being mode. This talk was given at my weekly Dharma Live/Online class. You can sign up for free HERE.

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This talk was given at the Durango Dharma Center as part of their Monday night offerings. Enjoy.

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Talk one, from Vallecitos retreat with JD Doyle. Entitled: On Cultivation.

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Talk two from Vallecitos retreat Center with JD Doyle. Exploring authentic happiness and the awakened life.

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The triad of gratification, danger, and escape is one of the Buddha’s most concise and simple teachings for investigating everyday lived experience. This formula can be applied to every single aspect of our experience. Many Buddhist scholars point out that this teaching contains the earliest roots of what we have come to know as the four noble truths, the basic framework for all Buddhist traditions.
What is interesting about this simple teaching is that the Buddha came to this realization before his awakening. He discusses this triad on four separate occasions, relating them to the aggregates, feelings (vedana), the four elements and the six sense doors.
The sheer simplicity of this teaching provides a framework for understanding human experience, particularly for those of us living in the digital complexity of the modern world.

This is not a realization given from high diction, or a pedestal of great wisdom and knowledge. Nor does it seek to bewilder us with metaphysics such as teachings on non-self, emptiness, rebirth and karma. Instead, it is easily understood and readily available to any of us, at any point in our process.

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Talk 4: Rocky Mt. Eco Dharma Retreat. Natural Awareness and Wisdom. Personal reflections on dharmic interventions. Emphasis on: faith, courage, service and authenticity.

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Talk 2: Rocky Mt. Eco Dharma Retreat. Natural Awareness and Wisdom. Exploring the full implications of the teachings on mindfulness.

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Talk 1: Rocky Mt. Eco Dharma Retreat. Natural Awareness and Wisdom.

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Talk 5: Rocky Mt. Eco Dharma Retreat. Natural Awareness and Wisdom. The full entire teachings on metta and it's friends.

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Talk 3: Rocky Mt. Eco Dharma Retreat. Natural Awareness and Wisdom.

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Final evening talk. Exploring secular perspectives on the 8 fold path. Adopting a non-orthodox take on this core teaching. Southern Dharma retreat, mindfulness and the four noble truths.

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Evening two talk from the Southern Dharma retreat. Mindfulness and the four noble truths.

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Evening one Dharma talk. Southern Dharma NC, mindfulness and the four noble truths.

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A talk on the Dharma of Addiction. Given in Tulsa Ok. May 2023. Online addiction coarse.

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Mindfulness is understood to have different applications of different occasions for different purposes. These ideas have been discovered form the work of academics of early buddhist discourse (pali texts: Gethin/Kuan)

These crucial teachings have been further developed by Stephen Batchelor and are a core component to his program, Mindfulness Based Ethical Living (MBEL).

These 3 talks, where given at the morning instructions for mindfulness and the four noble truths. They are edited together here for your convenience to offer a comprehensive overview. Here, the first 3 are described: existential, therapeutic, and contemplative. Ethical mindfulness is not yet discussed.

thanks!

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Another talk on the dharma of addiction. This was given at the Albq insight group. https://abqinsight.org/

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Talk given recently at the Durango Dharma Center. Exploring seven ways the term dharma is used in the pali texts. Enjoy!

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This talk was given for Big Heart City. https://www.bigheartcity.org/

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4 talks put together. Exploring the sets lists: 3 kinds of mind training, 3 refuges, 3 characteristics, and the 3 trainings of the 8 fold path. This was given over several weeks for dharma live online. Sign up here: https://www.davesmithdharma.com/live-groups/

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This two talks are spliced together. I explore the idea of a "turning point" in our life and in our practice.

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These 2 talks, edited together explore the importance of distinguishing traits and states.

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Two talks edited together that outline the location of dharma in American and potential side-effects.

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Random and scattered reflections on 20 years of sobriety. Thanks!

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Reflections on view related to joy/sorrow & gratitude/compasssion.

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This is a LONG talk. 8 separate talks spliced together from my weekly mentoring program. It offers academic perspectives on the 8 fold path and its cultivated, along with secular and contemporary points of view in hopes to bring the practice of the 8 fold path to life. Enjoy. If you are interested in joining the mentoring sangha you can find out more HERE.

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This talk was given at the NYE Big Bear Retreat. It explores the relationship with faith and renunciation.

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Overview of metta practice. This was given at the 2023 NYE retreat at Big Bear. Dave and Cheryl.

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These 2 talks are edited together, they are very similar. Given for my weekly Dharma/Live Online class and also for students in the mentoring program. This transparent talk offers specific reflection on how approach the practice and teaching of the dharma.

To join us: https://www.davesmithdharma.com/live-groups/

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This is my 300th episode! I can't believe it. I started uploading dharma talks back in 2012. Thanks for listening. This talk is HUGE. Seven talks spliced together from my dharma/live online course. It covers the entirety of the first foundation of mindfulness as it appears in the satiphatthana sutta. If you want to join the class, I have a big discount running. You will also get access to my new class called Audio Dharma Talks which has over 250 talks. Those talks are not here on this podcast. Click HERE.

https://www.davesmithdharma.com/contact/

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Day Before Halloween. Enjoy.

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This talk was given for the Dharma Live/Online weekly class. Feel free to join the practice community. HERE

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Talk 4, Montana retreat.

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Talk 3, Montana retreat.

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Second night talk, Montana metta vipassana retreat.

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Day one, morning session/guided of the metta vipassana retreat in Montana. https://bozemandharmacenter.org/

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First night talk of the metta vipassana retreat in Montana.

https://bozemandharmacenter.org/

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Day one, morning session of the metta vipassana retreat in Montana. https://bozemandharmacenter.org/

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Talk number 3, form Vallecitos retreat, October 1-8.

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Talk 2 from Vallecitos retreat, October 1-8.

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This is the first talk from Vallecitos nature retreat. October 1-8.

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Overview of feeling tone/vedana. Second foundation of mindfulness.

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Talk 2 from Southern Dharma metta-vipassana retreat.

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This talk was given at Vallecitos on September 11, 2023. Dave offers some reflection on 30 years in the Dharma. Photo of Dave and Steven Smith, Thailand 2014.

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Talk 1 from Southern Dharma metta-vipassana retreat (May 2023). Refections on suffering/dukkha.

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We have stopped uploading talks to our Buddhist Recovery Podcast. I will slowly be moving those talks to this podcast. I added this first as it was, by far, the most dowloaded episode. Also, we will be launching a secular dharma foundation podcast in November so stay tuned. For more on programs: https://linktr.ee/davesmithdharma

We also have a Buddhist Recovery online course: HERE

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Not sure when this talk was given. It just popped up in my Itunes, so I thought I would share.  For more on my various programs: https://linktr.ee/davesmithdharma

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Talk number three from the Big Bear mentoring retreat. Perspectives on path and view. 

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Talk two from Big Bear mentoring retreat. 

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This short talk offers some overview on the background and upcoming programs offered by the Secular Dharma Foundation.

You can register for the Mindfulness Based Ethical Living Program (MBEL) HERE.

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Talk one from mentoring retreat at Big Bear Retreat Center. 

Consider joining the Dave Smith Dharma mentoring program HERE

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Guided equanimity practice.

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This is the teaching audio from the 1/2 day work shop on mindfulness and the four noble truths. It was done thru the: https://www.floweringlotusmeditation.org/

This is the preliminary teaching that sits at the foundation of mindfulness based ethical living (MBEL). Registration is open for the 8-month MBEL program with Dave Smith, Stephen Batchelor, Ann Brand and Eileen Ybarra HERE

Watch the youtube interview HERE

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Short refections on retreat practice and the what the word "dharma" means from a textual analysis into the pali canon. Enjoy!

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MBEL has been conceived as a collaborative project, which leaves behind the patriarchal and hierarchical power structures often found in Buddhism. Authority is distributed throughout the community of practitioners rather than concentrated in an expert. This program can be freely shared with anyone who is interested in doing this work.
This program is appropriate for anyone interested in the topic, regardless of any previous experience.

MBEL is founded on early Buddhist formulas and lists such as: the four foundations of mindfulness, the four tasks, the four efforts, and the four immeasurables. In the same way that mindfulness-based therapies such as Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) are inspired by Buddhist contemplative practices, MBEL draws inspiration from the ethical values and philosophical frameworks of early Buddhist thought. Although Buddhist in inspiration and origin, MBEL shares neither the religious and metaphysical commitments of the Buddhist religion nor its authoritarian hierarchies of power. MBEL is a secular program.

REGISTER HERE 

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Final guided practice for the 15 month program.

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From the 15-month closing retreat at Big Bear. Final morning session.

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This talk was given for the San Fransisco Dharma Collective. It is an overview of the MBEL program created by Stephen Batchelor.

Mindfulness Based Ethical Living (MBEL) is an organized, contemplative system carefully designed for anyone who seeks to care for their own and others’ lives, here in this world. MBEL is a practice curriculum that addresses the psychological, ethical, and philosophical dimensions of the human experience and has been developed for those who seek a more expansive understanding for their practice of mindfulness.


REGISTER FOR PROGRAM: https://email.seculardharmafoundation.com/t/d-e-zuiklht-l-r/

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Final talk from the 15 month program.

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The final talk from the 15 month Dharma Everywhere program. Dave Smith and Eileen Ybarra offer reflections on the state and potential future of dharma in America. 

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There are a total of 5 talks that are put together here in one singular audio track. My teacher Steve Armstrong categorizes the 19 mental factors of the abhidharma in 5 sets: authenticity, care, awareness, creativity and contentment. These talks walk thru each one in detail. Enjoy!

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This is a discussion between Dave and Stephen Batchelor. The content revolves around a program developed by Stephen called Mindfulness Based Ethical Living (MBEL). Dave and Stephen will be teaching an 8-month program starting January 2024. To find out more details, you can join my email list here: https://www.davesmithdharma.com/contact/

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Full talk on faith from recent multi day retreat. 

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This short talk was given via zoom for Dharma Live/Online. You can join the practice community here: https://www.davesmithdharma.com/live-groups/

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This talk was given on zoom for the bozeman dharma center. I also have a free online course on the 4 truths. I am offering it to anyone who is interested, free of charge. https://courses.seculardharmafoundation.com/courses/80/about

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Talk on the four bases of accomplishment. This talk was given at the weekly group for the mentoring program. There are two talks edited together. One is the overview and the other are reflections on desire and effort.

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This practice accompanies the talk "MIND".

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What is the mind? How does it work? What are its universal factors and functions?  To find out more and get down to it, consider joining our practice community - Dharma/Live Online https://courses.seculardharmafoundation.com/courses/61/about

To find out more about Dave Smith Dharma programs and learning opportunities, sign up for our mailing list. https://www.davesmithdharma.com/contact/

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Yes, one more time. https://www.davesmithdharma.com/

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the 3rd great effort. To develop construction/wholesome mental states: https://www.davesmithdharma.com/

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sati is the OG term for mindfulness. Here are some thoughts on the matter:https://www.davesmithdharma.com/

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the training of attention: https://www.davesmithdharma.com/

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Reflections on sex. https://www.davesmithdharma.com/

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Short reflection on the topic of sex, sexuality and intimacy.

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From the vaults. A talk given a few years back on the difference and the relationship between the mind as process, and the mind as it relates to its "content"

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So, how much concentration do we need? Is it really that important?

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Personal reflections on mindfulness theory and practice.

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Two talks put together. Reflections on foundations of mindfulness 3(citta) and 4 (dhammas). These talks were given as part of dharma/live online. If you would like to join this practice community you can do so here: https://courses.seculardharmafoundation.com/courses/61/about

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Overview of the 4th foundation of mindfulness.

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There are currently open spaces in my dharma mentoring program. You can find out more here. https://www.davesmithdharma.com/meditation/mentoring/

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A talk on Nibbana. This was given at the Durango Dharma Center.  https://www.durangodharmacenter.org/

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Two talks on awaking that have been edited together. From different times and different places.  

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This was recorded for dharma live/online. This online community is open registration, join and cancel at anytime. https://courses.seculardharmafoundation.com/courses/61/about

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This talk was given as part of a weekend program at the Bozeman Dharma Center. https://bozemandharmacenter.org/home/

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The wound that seeks the arrow. 

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This talk was given as part of a weekend program at the Bozeman Dharma Center. https://bozemandharmacenter.org/home/

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From the noble quest. MN 26. 

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The practice. 

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This talk was given as part of a weekend program at the Bozeman Dharma Center. https://bozemandharmacenter.org/home/

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Day 1 Dharma Talk from Vallecitos: Mind and Mindfulness.

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Morning 2: Overview of attitude and guided practice. Vallecitos Mt Ranch.

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Day 1 Metta talk and guided. Vallecitos.

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Morning 3: compassion and appreciation talk and guided. Vallecitos Mt. Ranch.

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Final Evening Practice Session. Vallecitos Mt. Ranch

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These 4 talks are edited together. A combined reflection on right speech. To join us in this weekly class you can sign up at: https://courses.seculardharmafoundation.com/courses/61/about

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Southern Dharma Retreat: Morning 2, guided practice on feeling/vedana

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Southern Dharma Retreat: talk 1

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Southern Dharma Retreat: Morning 1 practice overview. https://www.southerndharma.org/

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Southern Dharma Retreat: Morning 4 overview of metta-vipassana

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Southern Dharma Retreat: Morning 1 instructions. https://www.southerndharma.org/

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Southern Dharma Retreat: Afternoon 2 overview on the compassion/gratitude

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Southern Dharma Retreat: Afternoon session 1, metta overview. https://www.southerndharma.org/

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Southern Dharma Retreat: Afternoon 2 guided, compassion/gratitude.

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Southern Dharma Retreat: 2nd night talk, four great efforts.

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Southern Dharma Retreat: morning 3 citta overview.

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Southern Dharma Retreat: Morning 3, citta - guided

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Southern Dharma Retreat: Afternoon 3, equanimity overview.

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Southern Dharma Retreat: Night 3 talk, Nibbana

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Southern Dharma Retreat: Morning 4 guided practice: metta vipassana

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Southern Dharma Retreat: Final session, taking the practice home Q&A...

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An opening talk on the 8-fold path. Emphasis on right view (samma ditthi). This talk was given at the dharma/live online weekly group. Click here if you would like to join us: https://courses.seculardharmafoundation.com/courses/61/about

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Opening talk for Metta Vipassana Day-long at Durango Dharma Center: https://www.durangodharmacenter.org/

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These are 3 talks combined, given weekly at the Dharma Live Online weekly practice community. If you would like to join us you can sign up anytime at this link: https://courses.seculardharmafoundation.com/courses/61/about

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In person talk from Durango Dharma Center: https://www.durangodharmacenter.org/

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An awakened life, is an awakened heart.

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This talk was given at Big Bear Retreat Center. It is the opening talk the 15 month program, Dharma Here and Now.

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This is two talks edited together that cover the range of the Buddhas teaching on Dukkha, aka, the first noble truth. This talk was given as part of the Dharma/Live Online program. If you would like to join in the live sessions you can sign up here: https://courses.seculardharmafoundation.com/courses/61/about

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First two talks from the dharma live/online weekly group. You can join up at any time! https://courses.seculardharmafoundation.com/courses/61/about

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Sign up NOW: https://courses.seculardharmafoundation.com/courses/61/about

DISCOUNT: https://courses.seculardharmafoundation.com/courses/62/about

Dharma Live/Online is a weekly practice community for those seeking a practical and accurate framework for the teachings of the Dharma. Live ZOOM sessions every Wednesday 7-815pm MST. Session audio will be recorded and uploaded so you can access them later.

As a participant you will be engaged in practice and study of the core teachings of the Dharma,  guided by the teachings found within the earliest Buddhist tradition, preserved within the pages of the Pali Canon. Together, we will practice and develop a Dharma path that can meet the complexity and challenges of the modern world.

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This rather LONG talk discusses the (19) Beautiful Mental Factors of the Abhidharma. Broken down into 5 categories (thanks to Steve Armstrong). If you enjoy these sessions please consider joining my dharma mentoring program. We have a few spaces left. You can find out more here: https://www.davesmithdharma.com/meditation/mentoring/

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A short talk contrasting the difference between restraint and cultivation as we examine the role of ethics within a dharma practice. Much thanks to the durango dharma center for inviting me to offer this talk.

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4 talks on nibanna, pasted together. Enjoy!

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This talk on citta vimutta, liberation thru the heart, was given for the Big Heart City Sangha in SF. Big thanks and appreciate to my friend and teacher, Vinny Ferraro for the invitation to teach in his space. https://www.bigheartcity.org/

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The guided practice that accompanies the talk.

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Nibbana. Nirvana. No big deal y'all 

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This talk was given as part of the ongoing mentoring program. It offers some reflection on overcoming reactivity as a largely ethical game. No so much to end suffering, but to stop causing harm. If you would like to join our mentoring program you can find out more here: https://www.davesmithdharma.com/meditation/mentoring/

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Dave zooms down with Tenzin Chogkyi. She has designed an online course for the Secular Dharma Foundation entitled Big Love: Cultivating the Four Immeasurables. (Heart Practices). Sign up here: https://courses.seculardharmafoundation.com/courses/52/about

Venerable Tenzin Chogkyi (she/her/hers) is a Buddhist monastic, activist and teacher of both Buddhist and secular programs. She loves bridging together the worlds of Buddhist thought, current events, and the latest research in the field of positive psychology. In addition to teaching Buddhist philosophy and meditation and leading retreats, Venerable Tenzin is a certified teacher of Compassion Cultivation Training, a secular compassion training program developed at Stanford University. She also teaches the Cultivating Emotional Balance program, a secular program using contemplative techniques drawn from Buddhism for managing emotions, developed at His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s request.

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This short and choppy talk is a brief overview of secular dharma. Many more will follow. https://seculardharmafoundation.com/

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During this talk, Dave explores the four means of accomplishment. This teaching list is often associated with magical powers and is therefore disregarded by the various Buddhist Schools. However, it does show up on the list of 37 aspects of awakening. Lets take a look at it. This talk is comprised of 4 separate talks given over a month during the mentoring program Sunday sessions. If you are interested in joining the program, you can find out more here. https://www.davesmithdharma.com/meditation/mentoring/

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This short talk, recently given for the Sunday weekly sessions of the mentoring program discusses the two dead ends: defined as the dead end of religion and the dead end of capitalism. If you are interested in joining the mentoring program, read more about that here: https://www.davesmithdharma.com/meditation/mentoring/

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Hey friends. On July 12 2003 I began my process of recovery. Soon after I recorded a record with my band, Ragged old Flag. I thought I would share this audio track with you. I hope you dig it. I hope to see you on the path. For more tunes check out: https://davesmithcountryrebel.hearnow.com/

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More discussion on the teachings of action and livelihood. This talk was give thru the Bozeman Dharma Center. For those interested in deepening their practice and being involved in an interactive community, I am accepting students into my mentoring program. https://www.davesmithdharma.com/meditation/mentoring/

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This talk, given for Insight Albq offers perspectives on the path factors of right action and right livelihood. https://www.davesmithdharma.com/

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This is the guided practice for 4th foundation PT 2. If you are interested in intensive 1:1 Dharma work, you can find out more here: https://www.davesmithdharma.com/meditation/mentoring/

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Another reflection on the 4th foundation of Mindfulness. This talk was given at the weekly mentoring session. If you are interested in intensive 1:1 Dharma work, you can find out more here: https://www.davesmithdharma.com/meditation/mentoring/

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Mindfulness of Dharmas (teachings)

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This talk, given for our weekly mentoring program offers some reflection on the often confusing, yet important practice and idea of taking "refuge". The talk outlines canonical perspectives that can help us overcome the religious undertones associated with the practice of taking refuge/saranam (pali). Enjoy.

For more ways to connect with my work. CLICK BELOW

Patreon Podcast

Mindfulness for Everyone Online Course

Buddhist Recovery Online Course and Community

Mentoring Program

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Due to the recent events in our culture I wanted to offer some practice and reflection on how to navigate the tricky territory of anger, hatred and other strong forces in the mind.

Consider Joining me in one of the various online offerings.

Mentoring Program: https://www.davesmithdharma.com/meditation/mentoring/

Buddhist Recovery Program (DISCOUNT PRE-PAY): https://courses.seculardharmafoundation.com/courses/29/about

Buddhist Recovery Monthly Subscription: https://courses.seculardharmafoundation.com/courses/16/about

Mindfulness for Everyone (Self-Paced Program): https://courses.seculardharmafoundation.com/courses/1/about

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DISCOUNT REGISTRATION

https://courses.seculardharmafoundation.com/courses/29/about

In recent years sincere efforts have been made to integrate Buddhist practices into Recovery culture and communities. Because there is no universal definition for, or understanding of what Buddhist Recovery is and how it works, many people find themselves confused and discouraged while looking for perspectives and practices that have meaningful and practical direction and outcome. This online class and community was specifically created to provide a simple and comprehensive framework for understanding how Buddhism and Dharma practice can be cultivated as means for overcoming addiction, embracing recovery and creating a meaningful life.

TEACHER-DIRECTED, COMMUNITY-BASED MONTHLY SUBSCRIPTION PROGRAM

*Live teachings sessions every week, via Zoom with Dave and Shannon Smith: Dharma Talk, Meditation and Q&A

*6 Modules of content designed for you to move at your own pace

*More than 3 hours of educational video content

*18 guided meditation practices

*All content pertaining to the original teachings of the Buddha from historical and academic perspectives

*New course material added and updated regularly

I hope to see you onscreen February 7th

much love

-dave smith

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LINK:https://davesmithcountryrebel.hearnow.com/

20 Years of Music by Dave Smith. Check it out y'all. Special thanks to: Mark Allan Miller, Jesse Mayer, Ben Murphy, Power Jeff, Texas Bob, Kevin Lennon, Ethan Dusssault, Tony Savarino, Johnny Shia Shia, Zack Shedd and JJ Oconnell. All songs written and sung by Dave Smith 

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My good friend Hanuman likes to remind me that life is way to important to take seriously. Being involved with Recovery, Dharma, and various therapeutic practices sometimes makes me feel like I can get into a hyper self-improvement mode. Which isn't always so great. In fact, sometimes I can find myself being stark raving serious in times when it's just not helpful.

A good Dharma teacher once asked me if there was something that I felt was missing from Dharma practice and work. A good question. My answer is yes, humor. When can we get some damn humor around here to lighten the load a bit right?

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Once upon a time, I lived in Nashville TN. There, my life totally fell apart and I turned once again, to Dharma and punk rock. Here is short and sweet little ditty for y'all.  

For more: https://davesmithcountryrebel.bandcamp.com/

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The triad of gratification, danger, and escape is one of the Buddha’s most concise and simple teachings for investigating everyday lived experience. This formula can be applied to every single aspect of our experience. Many Buddhist scholars point out that this teaching contains the earliest roots of what we have come to know as the four noble truths. The basic framework for all Buddhist traditions. 

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Some of you may know that I have writing and recording music for most of my life. Music is the only thing I have been doing longer than Dharma work. I recently recorded an Americana Roots record out here in Colorado. Since the track is titled "Wake Up" I thought I would share the audio track here on my podcast. If you would like to hear more, or purchase on of my many releases, you can click here: https://davesmithcountryrebel.bandcamp.com/

Dave brings with him over 25 years of musical experience. Most recently living in Nashville where he played the Honky Tonks of Lower Broadway learning the ins and outs of traditional country music. As a musician and songwriter he offers a unique blend of Country, Americana, and Rock and Roll, speaking to ideas of redemption, forgiveness, loss, and the trials of everyday life.

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Inspired by the quote from the movie "the perks of being a wallflower" : we accept the love we think we deserve. A reflection on the practice of embracing Dukkha.

Weekly talk and practice from the mentoring program. If you would like to join find out more:

https://www.davesmithdharma.com/meditation/mentoring/

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Join here: https://www.patreon.com/davesmithdharma

Dave Smith Dharma Podcast is a rich collection of talks, meditations, teachings, interviews and the newly created "talkumentary". All rooted in perspectives on early Buddhist Teachings that are relevant for life in the modern world. True Secular Dharma. Updated regularly and inspired by the practical applications of Mindfulness, Emotional Intelligence, Buddhist Psychology, Heart and Humor. Dave Smith is a Dharma Teacher, Mindfulness and Emotional Intelligence Trainer, Secular Humanist and Recovering Buddhist. I hope you will join us. 

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Please consider supporting my work and livelihood by joining my Patreon Podcast. There you wil find a range of talks, interviews, guided practices and a whole bunch of cool shit. You can do that here: https://www.patreon.com/davesmithdharma

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Q&A session from the sangha live retreat on metta vipassana.

https://sangha.live/deep-dharma/dave-smith/

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Reflections on post election stress and relief. Talk and guided practice on change. This talk was given as part of the weekly mentoring teaching, practice and discussion session. If you are interested in joining the mentoring program find out more here. https://www.davesmithdharma.com/meditation/mentoring/

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My dear friend, George Haas discusses his new book.

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This talk was given and recorded via Zoom for the Boston Meditation Center. Much love and thanks to my friend and teaching colleague, Chris Crotty for continuing to invite me to offer these online classes. 

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Another talk and practice from my weekly practice group. If you are interesting in talking part in these live zoom calls please consider joining my mentoring program. You can do that here: https://www.davesmithdharma.com/meditation/mentoring/

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I was recently interview by photo Margaret Meloni, PhD who is also an author and speaker about the relationship with Dharma and death. She was kind enough to share the audio so I have uploaded here. 

Please consider enrolling in my online course: Mindfulness for Everyone HERE

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Due to recent events in our culture and world, this talk offers some honest and messy perspectives on how we can come to terms with, and hopefully overcome the ill-will that arises from contempt.  If you are interested in joining this group live, please check out the mentoring program with Dave. https://www.davesmithdharma.com/meditation/mentoring/

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Soteriology: is the study of religious doctrines of salvation. Salvation theory occupies a place of special significance in many religions. In the academic field of religious studies, soteriology is understood by scholars as representing a key theme in a number of different religions and is often studied in a comparative context; that is, comparing various ideas about what salvation is and how it is obtained.

We discuss the role of faith within the  salvation aspect of dharma work. Here, we are trying to develop a middle way between eternalism and nihilism. Developing skillful means that help us work out our own liberation, here and now. 

If you enjoy these Sunday session, please consider joining mentoring program. Moving ahead these talk will be only available on my patreon podcast. 

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This talk is part of the weekly teaching series for the mentoring program. If you are interested in deepening your practice, please consider joining the program.

For more: https://www.davesmithdharma.com/meditation/mentoring/

One of the most important aspects of our live and our practice is how we see, experience and make sense of our world. In modern times we are inundated with media and information at a rate that we can barely process. With our attention bias towards negativity combined with the kind of digital food we consume it's no wonder many of us feel defeated, confused and uneasy about many things.

The teachings on right view (samma ditthi) are designed for us to push ourselves into a perspective that is construction, wholesome and optimistic. This teaching is vastly misunderstood because for so many, it implies a "belief" in something. A dogmatic view which hinders our ability to take this on as a practice of moment-to-moment inquiry.

At its most basic, right view is challenging us to maintain an ethical, philosophical and contemplative perspective on....everything!

This talk is part of the weekly teaching series for the mentoring program. If you are interested in deepening your practice, please consider joining the program.

For more: https://www.davesmithdharma.com/meditation/mentoring/

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Drawing from the teachings outlined in the Satipatthana, Dave discusses the potential role of concentration within Mindfulness practice. This talk was given for and recorded by the good folks at the Boston Meditation Center> Enjoy.

https://bostonmeditationcenter.org/

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Here is a recorded session from my weekly practice group. This practice session is designed for students who are actively involved in my mentoring programs. If you would like to find out more, or join the program read about that here: https://www.davesmithdharma.com/meditation/mentoring/

Vipassana meditation (insight or mindfulness practice) unites the stillness of concentration with the immediacy of moment to moment experience. As we learn to calm the body and mind, intuitive wisdom arises. This allows us to open to the truth of each moment’s experience within and around us. In this way, we increase our ability to meet life’s ups and downs with ease and presence.

Metta (loving-kindness) meditation practice calls forth the beautiful spiritual emotions within our heart: loving-kindness, compassion, empathetic joy and equanimity. Mindfulness of these qualities strengthens and brings them into fruition. This process guides our thoughts, attitudes and behaviors into the direction of awakening to our full potential.

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This audio goes along with the talk from Boston Meditation Center. 

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I was invited to teach a zoom session for the Boston Meditation Center. The talk is on right effort. Much love and thanks to my good friend and dharma colleague, Chris Crotty for inviting me in.

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To join my podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/davesmithdharma

I met George Hofmann just before the Covid-19 shutdown. We were both attending a retreat with Stephen Batchelor at Upaya Zen Center. We became fast friends and I was very interested in his process with mindfulness and Dharma. George, has a long personal history of working with Bi-polar disorder. Through medication, meditation and some CBT, he is now living a happy successful life. Hear his journey, process and his contributions to the world of mental health. Find out more about George here.

website: www.practicingmentalillness.com

Blog on PsychCentral: https://blogs.psychcentral.com/older-bipolar/

The book at Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Resilience-Handling-Anxiety-Time-Crisis/dp/1789046793/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=resilience+handling+anxiety+in+a+time+of+crisis&qid=1588021263&sr=8-4

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One from the vault. Today, looking thru my voice recorder in my phone I stubbled across a series of meditations form the Cultivating Emotional Balance Retreat (CEB) that I taught in September of 2019. This was recorded at the Vajrapani Institute in Boulder Creek CA. You can hear the night time critics in the background. Enjoy! 

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A few words on the practice of wise refection. Under difficult times, do we rise to our expectations, or do we fall to the level of our training. A rant, at best :)

https://www.davesmithdharma.com/

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This guided practice offers some overview and guided practice on metta vipassana. The focus is to bring metta: kindness and friendliness into the three aspects of experience. Change, Tragedy, Self. The meditation starts at 10:00. 

Be safe out there y'all. 

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Perspectives on Faith, Trust and Confidence: How do we understand and develop these qualities? How are the relevant and useful in the stressful and uncertain moments of our life? How can we develop the inner resource of confidence? 

If you are looking for more resources and guidance during this time, please see what I have available at my services page. Thanks.

https://www.davesmithdharma.com/

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A brief overview and guided practice on the concept and practice of metta. Enjoy.

Consider joining my patreon podcast:https://www.patreon.com/davesmithdharma

Also my Online Secular Mindfulness Practice and Education Course is OPEN

https://courses.seculardharmafoundation.com/courses/1/about

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A short reflection on how to understand and work with fear in these challenging times. 

For more on my teachings: consider joining my patreon: https://www.patreon.com/davesmithdharma

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This talk was given via ZOOM as an act of generosity to the good folks at ALBX Insight. I recorded it last minute on my iphone. Enjoy.

For those out there looking to find something to sink they're teeth into. Please consider signing up for my Secular Mindfulness Practice and Education Course offered a a discounted rate during these difficult times. Sign up here: 

https://courses.seculardharmafoundation.com/courses/1/about

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This short talk is a big thanks to all-y'all for listening to all my talks. I have a new online class available that is the culmination of 10 years of teaching in jails, prisons, treatment centers and whole bunch of other crazy spots. The online course is simple, yet comprehensive and will give you the background, education and all the instructions you need to develop mindfulness. I hope to see you on screen. I am offering a discount rate for the next 90 days. You can sign up here: This is yet, another, talk on citta. Shit is so important. Also, don't hesitate to take my online course on Mindfulness. These crazy time are a good opportunity to practice at home. The course is reduced in price for the next 90 days. Take Advantage. Check out the link: :https://courses.seculardharmafoundation.com/courses/1/about

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This is yet, another, talk on citta. Shit is so important. Also, don't hesitate to take my online course on Mindfulness. These crazy time are a good opportunity to practice at home. The course is reduced in price for the next 90 days. Take Advantage. Check out the link: :https://courses.seculardharmafoundation.com/courses/1/about

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This recent talk given at the Durango Dharma Center is a reflection on the idea of "wisdom" (whatever that means *%$!) in relationship to the 4 great efforts. A classic and dynamic teaching. Also. If you would like to take part in my self-pace, reduced-rate online mindfulness course you should get on it. Here is the link: https://courses.seculardharmafoundation.com/courses/1/about

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This talk was given at the Durango Dharma Center. Dave offers four qualities of living an awakened life. A non-tradition list of 4. Enjoy!https://www.durangodharmacenter.org/

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A brief overview and guided practice on awareness of awareness: AKA the 3rd foundation of mindfulness. This was given on the last day of the CEB 42 curriculum. http://cultivating-emotional-balance.org/

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This talk was given at the Durango Dharma Center. Using Dharma as a vehicle for overcoming addiction. https://www.durangodharmacenter.org/

If you are moved by these talks, please consider making a donation to support my ongoing work as dana supports me and my family: DONATE

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This talk was given at Albuquerque Insight. http://abqinsight.org/

This sutta is commonly understood amongst scholars to be the oldest recording of what the Buddha states that he "awoke" to. This dharma I have reached.....

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This talk was given at Insight Santa Cruz. It explores the idea of how avoiding emotions can give rise to spiritual bypass. This talk integrates classical dharma teachings with the science of emotion blending the wisdom traditions of the east and the west. 

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If you would like to support the work I do, Please consider making a donation. https://www.paypal.me/satisila

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guided practice: Compassion & Gratitude

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a brief mindfulness practice from the OKC event.

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Opening night talk given in Oklahoma city.

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This talk was given a the Oklahoma Dharma Collective weekend retreat. Dave outlines the process of the 8 fold path as a vehicle for overcoming addiction.

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seeing, feeling, responding, living.

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Guided meditation for the natural awareness overview.

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Afternoon session from Vallecitos August 2019. Overview of awareness in the 3rd foundation. Feeling the force of greed, hatred, delusion.

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Thanks to my good friend Chris Crotty for inviting me out to the Boston Meditation Center to offer this talk. https://bostonmeditationcenter.org/

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The guided practice session from the talk. My podcast and teachings are offered free of charge. If you are willing and able please consider making a donation to support my work and to offer generosity for the time and labor of making these available: PAYPAL is here: https://www.davesmithdharma.com/contact/

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Given at the Vallecitos retreat in August 2019, this talk offers overview on how forgiveness can be implemented as a moment to moment process of letting go.

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If you would like to support the work I do, Please consider making a donation.

https://www.paypal.me/satisila

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Samma Dhitti: The sacred mystery of awareness. This talk given on the opening night of the Vallecitos retreat explores the Buddha's teaching and articulation of developing right view or complete understanding. https://www.vallecitos.org/

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Recording at Boston Meditation Center, Dave offers perspectives on citta.

https://bostonmeditationcenter.org/

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This talk was given at Eastside Insight LA (Former ATS). During this talk Dave discusses the war on emotion.

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This talk was given at the Durango Dharma Center as part of their Monday night drop in class. Much thanks to Erin Treat for the ongoing support and invitation.

https://www.durangodharmacenter.org/

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A guided metta vipassana. Metta and the 3 characteristics. This was given at the Buddhist Recovery day long at the Bozeman Dharma Center.

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This guided practice on the illimitables was given at the Bozeman Dharma Center. It was given at Buddhism and Recovery day long event. It focusses on the practices of compassion and gratitude. There is a short intro to the guided practice.

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A talk from the Bozeman Dharma Center on Mindfulness and Equanimity.

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This public lecture was given at the Bozeman Dharma Center. A talk that integrates science and dharma focussing on emotion. https://bozemandharmacenter.org/

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this talk was given at the San Francisco Dharma Collective in April 2019. I

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This talk was given at the Durango Dharma Center. https://www.durangodharmacenter.org/

Inspired by recent events, as well as the world at large. Dave takes an honest look at the practice of sila. Translated as integrity and discipline. Sila is the foundation for the entire path. Get some y'all.

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Self or non-self. Who fuckin cares ?!?! The point is....what are you gonna do about it?

Join me for an online class: realizemedia.org/dave-smith

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Understanding and developing Citta (heart-mind).

Description: All schools of Buddhism acknowledge that the development

of Citta is an essential aspect of the awakening process. Within classical

Mindfulness teachings, it encompasses the entirely of the third foundation

of practice. At its core, it encourages use to recognize the presence and

absence of greed, hatred and delusion. In its fruition it points to

embodying a mind and heart of wisdom, kindness, compassion, joy and

equanimity. During this teaching session Dave will outline the basic nuts

and bolts of how this can be understood and developed, both on and off the

cushion.

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A short interview: https://vimeo.com/297363360

During this final talk from the Vallecitos June 2018, Dave offers a transparent and reflective talk on his experience with Dharma, trauma, addiction and life.

These talks and instructions are offered free of charge. If you feel moved by generosity, you can make a a donation to support Dave in his life, and ongoing work. PAYPAL link can be found here: https://rebelsaintdharma.com/contact/

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This talk, given at the Durango Dharma Center https://www.durangodharmacenter.org/ was offered to the weekly Monday night class. The concept and practice of citta is defined and outlined, from the discourses of the pali canon, as well as the abhidharma and current ideas from the emotional intelligence movement. Special thanks to Erin Treat for the invitation to teach for the community in Durango.

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Final morning instructions at Vallecitos. Talk and guided practice.

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How do we find balance between the reality of hedonic worldly pleasure, and the possibility of inner cultivation? Understanding that they are not mutually exclusive, but rather need to be integrated.

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Liberating the heart and mind. GUIDED.

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This talk, from Vallecitos NM June 2018 Retreat, offers a description and overview of the practice and cultivation of equanimity. The guided practice follows in the next episode.

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This session is a guided practice that immediately followed the overview.

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This talk outlines how metta transforms into gratitude and appreciation when it encounters goodness and beauty. This talk was given at Vallecitos June 2018. Enjoy.

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This talk was given on the 3rd night of the Vallecitos retreat in June 2018. It explores Dukkha-Sankhara, how our unexplored core wounds, give rise to unsuccessful and destructive patterns of thought.

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What is Citta ??

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This guided Citta practice follows the previous overview. It was given at the Vallecitos retreat June 2018

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This guided practices follows the overview from 2018 Vallecitos retreat. Afternoon session.

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This afternoon session from the Vallecitos retreat introduces Metta as an embodied practice.

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This is the first morning instructions given at the Vallecitos NM retreat in June 2018. It offers a nuts an bolts approach to mindfulness practice. The intro is followed by a guide practice. Enjoy!

https://www.vallecitos.org/

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This was the first night talk given at the Mindfulness and Compassion to awaken the heart retreat at Vallecitos NM, June 2018. It outlines the big picture and moment to moment experience of sama ditti, sati and sanna.

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The guided practice from the overview. These talks and instructions were given at the southern dharma retreat center, March 2018, Metta Vipassana retreat.

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This talk expands on the metta instructions to bring a wider focus on the practice, internally and externally.

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This guided practice follows the talk here on Citta. Attitude of mind, as opposed to object.

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This talk was given in the morning session at Southern Dharma retreat center as part of the Metta Vipassana retreat in March 2018.

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This guided practice, accompanies the talk preceding it. Southern Dharma, Metta Vipassana, March 2018.

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This talk was given at the afternoon session, day 1, of the metta vipassana retreat at Southern Dharma in March 2018. http://southerndharma.org/

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This guided practice follows the talk on anchor, listed previously. Enjoy.

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Welcome to my 100th episode! This talk was given on morning 1, of the Southern Dharma Metta Vipassana Retreat in March 2018. This "back to basics" instructional talk introduces and emphasizes the importance of developing an anchor in practice, while pointing out that this is a preliminary skill, not the end sum game.

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This talk was given at the Aspen Chapel on 4/25. This talk is part of the weekly groups offered by the Roaring Fork Insight. http://www.roaringforkinsight.org/

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This intro and guided practice was given at the Southern Dharma Retreat in March 2018.

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This talk was given at Insight Santa Cruz, http://www.insightsantacruz.org/. A descriptions is below.

Without a doubt, Buddhism is recognized as one of the world’s great religions. For almost three millennia these ancient teachings have spread rapidly around the globe influencing humanity in a variety of ways. Needless to say, the historical Buddha, (Siddharta Gotama) did not teach Buddhism, he taught the Dharma as a means to overcome suffering here in this very lifetime. The core teachings, found within the Pali Canon discourses outlines in great detail, how this process can be understood, applied and experienced by anyone. During this evening event, Dave will discuss the Dharma as it is defined in the Ariyapariyesana Sutta MN 26, (Noble Quest). Many scholars of the early Canon have identified this as the oldest description of the Buddha’s awakening.

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This talk was given on the opening night at the metta-vipassana retreat at Southern Dharma. http://southerndharma.org/

If you find these teachings useful, please consider a donation to support the ongoing work of Dave Smith, you can find out how here: http://rebelsaintdharma.com/contact/

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This talk was given at the second night of the metta-vipassana retreat at Southern Dharma.

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This talk was given at the Aspen Chapel. It was part of a monthly group that Dave is leading for the North Fork Insight Meditation group. The term Sati is broken down and discussed.

http://www.roaringforkinsight.org/

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This talk was given in June of 2016 at the Against the Stream Melrose Center. This was the final talk given by Dave Smith prior to his move to Colorado.

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This talk outlines the 3 trainings: Sila-Samadhi- Panna. This talk was given at the Aspen Chapel for the Roaring Fork Insight Meditation weekly group. http://www.roaringforkinsight.org/

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This talk was given for an online class for worldwide insight. www.worldwideinsight.org. To watch the video of the entire session you can stream it here: https://player.vimeo.com/video/253296306

Understanding and developing Citta (heart-mind).

All schools of Buddhism acknowledge that the development of Citta is an essential aspect of the awakening process. Within classical Mindfulness teachings, it encompasses the entirely of the third foundation of practice. At its core, it encourages use to recognize the presence and absence of greed, hatred and delusion. In its fruition it points to embodying a mind and heart of wisdom, kindness, compassion, joy and equanimity. During this teaching session Dave will outline the basic nuts and bolts of how this can be understood and developed, both on and off the cushion.

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This is the guided practice that follows the talk on compassion and appreciation (the illimitables). For the ATS Malibu retreat.

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This intro talk on the illimitables (compassion & appreciation) was given at the afternoon session at Dave's last Against the Stream retreat in Malibu CA. The guided session is followed by this talk.

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This was the first night talk given at the New Years Eve Retreat in Malibu with Cheryl Slean. This talk offers reflection and explanation of the practice and outcome of Upekkha/equanimity.

You can find Cheryl Slean at: http://amindfullife.org/

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This talk was given in the early days of Against the Stream Nashville: pre -Refuge Recovery. Circa 2012. This talk was offered at a Wednesday night session where 12 steps and Dharma were discussed. This is second talk of a 2 part talk that Dave offers on the topic of shame, with some reflections from the secular work of Brene Brown.

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This talk was given in the early days of Against the Stream Nashville: pre -Refuge Recovery. Circa 2012. This talk was offered at a Wednesday night session where 12 steps and Dharma were discussed. This is the first talk of a 2 part talk that Dave offers on the topic of shame, with a long personal introduction.

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This talk was given in January of 2017 at Against the Stream Melrose Center. This talk outlines the emotional experience of anger and fear. This was the firs talk given by Dave after his near death motorcycle accident. (the audio is a bit off-FYI)

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Pulled from the archive, Against the Stream Nashville circa 2014. This talk points to the difference between desire and craving. Craving not being an expression of desire, but rather a repression of our own desire to be free, to be at ease, to be truly happy. If you find these talks interesting or useful, please consider making a donation on my contact page: http://rebelsaintdharma.com/contact/

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This talk was given at the Against the Stream East Coast Retreat at Earthdance, circa 2013. It discusses the noble quest. This is the first retreat talk ever given by Dave Smith. If you find these talks interesting or useful, please consider making a donation on my contact page: http://rebelsaintdharma.com/contact/

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A talk on being authentic in our communication. From the vaults of ATS-Nashville. 2013. If you scroll down to the bottom, there are many more older talks, and much more to come.

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This talk comes from the vaults hidden deep within my Itunes. Given at Against the Stream Melrose Center a few years ago.

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This talk was given at the Roaring Fork Insight weekly dharma class in Aspen CO. It offers a detailed explanation of compassion and appreciation (gratitude) as wise responses to complex conditions.

http://www.roaringforkinsight.org/

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The final talk, right view & the middle way was given at the Vashon Island Against the Stream retreat. The talk outlines how to integrate retreat practice into daily life.

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Reaching into the old archives, here is an old talk given on a Monday night class at Against the Stream. The talk challenges us to look at our clinging to views around being a "Buddhist"

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This day two practice session from Against the Stream Vashon Island retreat offers a practice of compassion and appreciation. The guided practice follows the overview session. FYI

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This day 2 talk from the Against the Stream Vashon Island retreat offers an overview on Compassion (karuna) and Appreciation (mudita), by outlining their role from the abhidhamma, or the illimatables. When these practices are skillfully interwoven it becomes the first stage of fruition for metta vipassana.

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This guided practice was given at the morning session, day 2, at the Vashon Island Against the Stream retreat. This practice follows the overview session. FYI.

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This overview and talk was given at the morning session, day 2, at the Vashon Island Against the Stream retreat. The often misunderstood concept of Citta heart/mind is introduced.

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This talk was given on the first night of the Against the Stream Vashon Island Retreat. Offering some reflection on what "drives" one to practice. "What is our ultimate concern"? It offers a Q&A approach to dharma.

If you find these talks interesting or useful, please consider making a donation on my contact page: http://rebelsaintdharma.com/contact/

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This guided practice was given at the afternoon session, day 1, at the Vashon Island Against the Stream retreat. The practice of embodied Metta is introduced. This is the guide that goes with the embodied metta talk. FYI.

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This talk was given at the afternoon session, day 1, at the Vashon Island Against the Stream retreat. The practice of embodied Metta is introduced.

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This talk was given on day 1 morning session from the Vashon Island Against the Stream retreat. It explores the basics of developing the mind, and using the attitude of metta as an anchor as well.

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This talk and instruction comes from the final talk at southern dharma. An overview of the Buddhist endeavor

http://southerndharma.org/schedule.shtml#/event/291/liberating-the-mind-and-heart-a-metta-vipassana-retreat

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This talk and instruction comes from the afternoon session, day 2, from Southern Dharma Retreat Center, for a metta-vipassana retreat. Working with the illimitables, karuna/mudita

http://southerndharma.org/schedule.shtml#/event/291/liberating-the-mind-and-heart-a-metta-vipassana-retreat

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This talk and instruction comes from the morning session, day 2, from Southern Dharma Retreat Center, for a metta-vipassana retreat.

http://southerndharma.org/schedule.shtml#/event/291/liberating-the-mind-and-heart-a-metta-vipassana-retreat

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This talk from the first night dharma talk session of the metta vipassana retreat at southern dharma. http://southerndharma.org/

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This talk and instruction comes from the afternoon session, day 1, from Southern Dharma Retreat Center, for a metta-vipassana retreat. http://southerndharma.org/

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This talk and guided instruction comes from the first morning session of the metta vipassana retreat at southern dharma. http://southerndharma.org/

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This talk was given as a clinical training in Asheville NC, at the Urban Dharma Center. It outlines how mindfulness can be used for the establishment of cultivating emotional balance, a secular program that was developed to help people work with destructive emotions. http://cultivating-emotional-balance.org/

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This talk was given at the Urban Dharma Center in Asheville NC.

Vipassana meditation unites the stillness of concentration with the immediacy of moment to moment experience. As we learn to calm the body and mind, intuitive wisdom arises. This allows us to open to the truth of each moment’s experience within and around us. Metta (Loving-kindness) meditation practice calls forth the beautiful spiritual emotions within our heart: lovingkindness, compassion, empathetic joy and equanimity. Mindfulness of these qualities strengthens and brings them into fruition. This process guides our thoughts, attitudes and behaviors into the direction of awakening to our full potential.

https://udharmanc.com/

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Session 9 of the a 10 month course at Against the Stream in Los Angeles. Appreciation / gratitude

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Session 9 of the a 10 month course at Against the Stream in Los Angeles.

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Session 9 of the a 10 month course at Against the Stream in Los Angeles.

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Everybody wants one more talk on equanimity!

The final talk from the mindfulness and early buddhism study course at 1440. https://1440.org/

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What can we expect from a meditation practice? Realistically.

This talk was given at the Aspen Chapel in beautiful Aspen Colorado. This was Dave's first visit to the Roaring Forth Insight meditation group. The talk offers and discusses 3 ideas. Awakening, mindfulness and Dharma. Resting in three questions, what did the buddha do? how did he do it? what was the result?

This talk was given at the Aspen Chapel in beautiful Aspen Colorado. This was Dave's first visit to the Roaring Forth Insight meditation group. The talk offers and discusses 3 ideas. Awakening, mindfulness and Dharma. Resting in three questions, what did the buddha do? how did he do it? what was the result?

This talk was given at the Aspen Chapel in beautiful Aspen Colorado. This was Dave's first visit to the Roaring Forth Insight meditation group. The talk offers and discusses 3 ideas. Awakening, mindfulness and Dharma. Resting in three questions, what did the buddha do? how did he do it? what was the result?

http://www.roaringforkinsight.org/

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This final talk introduces the practice of the 4th foundation of Mindfulness/dhammas. The talk is recorded at 1440 Multiversity in Scotts Valley CA. This practice and study course focus's on Mindfulness in early Buddhism (pali discourses)

https://1440.org/

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The 3rd heart practice, brahma vihara. Mudita, appreciate joy, gratitude. etc.

The talk is recorded at 1440 Multiversity in Scotts Valley CA. This practice and study course focus's on Mindfulness in early Buddhism (pali discourses)

https://1440.org/

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This day 3 talk introduces the practice of the 3nd foundation of Mindfulness/citta. The talk is recorded at 1440 Multiversity in Scotts Valley CA. This practice and study course focus's on Mindfulness in early Buddhism (pali discourses)

https://1440.org/

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This day 2 talk introduces the practice of the 2nd foundation of Mindfulness/vedana. The talk is recorded at 1440 Multiversity in Scotts Valley CA. This practice and study course focus's on Mindfulness in early Buddhism (pali discourses)

https://1440.org/

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The first talk in a series on the heart practices. The talk is recorded at 1440 Multiversity in Scotts Valley CA. This practice and study course focus's on Mindfulness in early Buddhism (pali discourses)

https://1440.org/

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Livelihood: Looking at our relationship to money, desire and making meaning in this world.

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MINDFULNESS

The practice of mindfulness is outlined in the Pali canon and is contained within a Buddhist teaching entitled: Satipatthana, which is described as the direct path to realization. The English scholar Thomas William Rhys Davids first translated sati as mindfulness in 1881.

Thus, the English translation that we have used for Satipatthana is mindfulness. If we break the term into its roots, we will find two very important ideas:

  1. Sati- the ability to remember, to recognize and to see clearly.
  2. Thana- a ground or foundation.

Satipatthana- To remember, to recognize and to see clearly this ground, namely the impermanent, unreliable, stressful and self-less nature of experience itself. Learning to navigate with skill, the groundless ground of lived experience. This is accomplished by developing the four foundations of mindfulness.

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MINDFULNESS

The practice of mindfulness is outlined in the Pali canon and is contained within a Buddhist teaching entitled: Satipatthana, which is described as the direct path to realization. The English scholar Thomas William Rhys Davids first translated sati as mindfulness in 1881.

Thus, the English translation that we have used for Satipatthana is mindfulness. If we break the term into its roots, we will find two very important ideas:

  1. Sati- the ability to remember, to recognize and to see clearly.
  2. Thana- a ground or foundation.

Satipatthana- To remember, to recognize and to see clearly this ground, namely the impermanent, unreliable, stressful and self-less nature of experience itself. Learning to navigate with skill, the groundless ground of lived experience. This is accomplished by developing the four foundations of mindfulness.

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MINDFULNESS

The practice of mindfulness is outlined in the Pali canon and is contained within a Buddhist teaching entitled: Satipatthana, which is described as the direct path to realization. The English scholar Thomas William Rhys Davids first translated sati as mindfulness in 1881.

Thus, the English translation that we have used for Satipatthana is mindfulness. If we break the term into its roots, we will find two very important ideas:

  1. Sati- the ability to remember, to recognize and to see clearly.
  2. Thana- a ground or foundation.

Satipatthana- To remember, to recognize and to see clearly this ground, namely the impermanent, unreliable, stressful and self-less nature of experience itself. Learning to navigate with skill, the groundless ground of lived experience. This is accomplished by developing the four foundations of mindfulness.

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MINDFULNESS

The practice of mindfulness is outlined in the Pali canon and is contained within a Buddhist teaching entitled: Satipatthana, which is described as the direct path to realization. The English scholar Thomas William Rhys Davids first translated sati as mindfulness in 1881.

Thus, the English translation that we have used for Satipatthana is mindfulness. If we break the term into its roots, we will find two very important ideas:

  1. Sati- the ability to remember, to recognize and to see clearly.
  2. Thana- a ground or foundation.

Satipatthana- To remember, to recognize and to see clearly this ground, namely the impermanent, unreliable, stressful and self-less nature of experience itself. Learning to navigate with skill, the groundless ground of lived experience. This is accomplished by developing the four foundations of mindfulness.

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MINDFULNESS

The practice of mindfulness is outlined in the Pali canon and is contained within a Buddhist teaching entitled: Satipatthana, which is described as the direct path to realization. The English scholar Thomas William Rhys Davids first translated sati as mindfulness in 1881.

Thus, the English translation that we have used for Satipatthana is mindfulness. If we break the term into its roots, we will find two very important ideas:

  1. Sati- the ability to remember, to recognize and to see clearly.
  2. Thana- a ground or foundation.

Satipatthana- To remember, to recognize and to see clearly this ground, namely the impermanent, unreliable, stressful and self-less nature of experience itself. Learning to navigate with skill, the groundless ground of lived experience. This is accomplished by developing the four foundations of mindfulness.

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This is a very good recording of my full practice of ethical mindfulness or equanimity

https://www.amazon.com/Ethical-Mindfulness-David-Smith-ebook/dp/B00VMDKSCY

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Equanimity (Upekkha)

Equanimity is the practice that holds everything together. We simply acknowledge the truth that our happiness and our freedom is dependent on our actions, not on our wishes. Equanimity balances compassion with wisdom. It allows us to experience the full range of ethical mindfulness.

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Appreciation (Mudita)

The most common translation for mudita is sympathetic joy. This encourages us to be able to sympathize with or participate in the happiness of others. It is the antidote to jealously and envy.

Mudita has the ability and characteristic of gladdening. It helps us to overcome the common attitude of “how come them and not me.” We may find that we often become jealous or self-conscious when we are faced with the good fortune of others. This creates the experience of separation and we become disconnected and self-centered. We may consider how unfortunate it is to be unable to participate in the happiness and success of others, especially when the person is somebody we care about. Whether it is a good friend, colleague, or family member, wouldn’t we want to be able to appreciate his or her good fortune? We want to develop a specific practice to evoke and embody this quality of appreciation.

Such a practice gives us the ability to participate in all the happiness, joy, success, and pleasure of this world without the need for it to be our own. If we restrict our experience of gratitude to our own gains and successes, we severely limit our potential joy and happiness. We create a mind that compares and contrasts. We may become competitive, bitter, and even resentful. If we can bring awareness and appreciation to the good fortune of others, it allows us to keep from closing off from the world and revel in happiness and connection.

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Compassion (Karuna)

Compassion is the second aspect of heart practices and has the specific aim of being directed toward pain and suffering. It is often defined as a movement of the heart when we meet pain and anguish. Compassion is the ability to both feel and to respond in a way that reduces or holds the suffering of another. Within the context of empathy, compassion is our greatest skill. It is also a skill that we need to learn and maintain through practice. As a quality of mind, it is only appropriate and necessary during moments of distress, sadness, pain or suffering. It simply intends to help or hold that which hurts.

With compassion comes the inability to express hatred. Its expression is the manifestation of non-violence. It has the ability to uproot any intention to cause harm. It can be brought about by seeing and understanding the difficulties and pains of others while holding a sincere desire to alleviate that suffering. It succeeds when it causes violence and ill-will to descend. It fails when it produces depression, grief and sorrow. Compassion isn’t self-pity or pity for others, but when wrongly understood it may manifest in this way. It’s ultimately about feeling one’s own pain and recognizing the pain of others. When we can see, and experience the suffering of this world that we are all subject to, we may become kinder and more compassionate to one another.

This talk was given at a 7 day retreat at New Life Foundation in Chiang Rai Thailand in the winter of 2016. http://www.newlifethaifoundation.com/

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Forgiveness

There is no official Pali translation for the word forgiveness but the idea of forgiveness is expressed wholeheartedly throughout the teachings. Forgiveness practice plays a critical role in the development of compassion and empathy because if we can’t forgive, we limit our ability for true connection and empathy. Forgiveness is the antidote to resentment. It allows us to learn how to put aside and ultimately abandon our tendency toward blaming. There is no lasting sense of well-being or happiness associated with the common and often seemingly justified habit of finding fault in others.

At times it will be important for us to acknowledge the harm we have caused, and it is helpful to experience an appropriate amount of regret. Understanding that blaming is only a source of harm to others and ourselves, we set the intention to hold forgiveness as quality that we aim to embody.

This talk was given at a 7 day retreat at New Life Foundation in Chiang Rai Thailand in the winter of 2016. http://www.newlifethaifoundation.com/

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This talk was given at a 7 day retreat at New Life Foundation in Chaing RiThailand in the winter of 2016. Kind-Friendliness (Metta) http://www.newlifethaifoundation.com/

The word metta is derived from the Pali word, mita. Mita, literally means friend. The most accurate translation of the term metta would be kind-friendliness. Metta has the mode of friendliness for its characteristic. Its natural function is to promote good intention. It is manifested as the disappearance of ill-will. Its footing is “to see” with kindness. When it succeeds, it eliminates ill-will. When it fails, it degenerates into greed, self-centered craving and attachment.

Kind-friendliness is the first foundation of metta practices. Metta is a beneficial attitude in every situation. It is always appropriate. It holds ease, peace, and contentment as a baseline attitude and promotes its increase. It seeks to further cooperation and understanding even in the presence of difficulty.

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On a recent visit to Calgary, Dave outlines the practice of metta vipassana; integrating the foundations of mindfulness with the classic teaching on the bramha viharas. The talk also offers a framework for working with emotions and the development of emotional intelligence.

http://atlasofemotions.org/

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This talk was given on a Monday night at Against the Stream in Santa Monica. It points to the fact that the buddha didn't really invent anything...but showed us something that was already there. The heart of Buddhist meditation.

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This short 20 minute podcast begins with an overview of practice, followed by a guide practice.

http://rebelsaintdharma.com/meditation/mentoring/

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This talk, which was discovered deep in the vault of I tunes was given at Dave and Cheryl's NEW YEAR RETREAT in Malibu. An honest reflective talk on the practice and the teaching of the 5 faculties.

Cheryl Slean: http://amindfullife.org/

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The final talk, written at the last minute for the lovely folks at New Life. Enjoy!

Dave Smith is a Buddhist meditation teacher, addiction treatment specialist, and published author from the "Against the Stream Buddhist Meditation Society". In January/February 2016 New Life Foundation welcomed him back for his second annual silent retreat. For all those who couldn't make it, we recorded his nightly Dharma talks. Enjoy!

We also sat down with Dave for an interview: www.newlifethaifoundation.com/general/go…ave-smith/

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The dharma is a practice of subtraction not addition. What can we let go of...?

Dave Smith is a Buddhist meditation teacher, addiction treatment specialist, and published author from the "Against the Stream Buddhist Meditation Society". In January/February 2016 New Life Foundation welcomed him back for his second annual silent retreat. For all those who couldn't make it, we recorded his nightly Dharma talks. Enjoy!

We also sat down with Dave for an interview: www.newlifethaifoundation.com/general/go…ave-smith/

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This talk discusses discuss the challenge of embracing the truth, or what is true for you. Mindfulness as a practice of turning towards all of the things that we have been running from and attempting to avoid.

Dave Smith is a Buddhist meditation teacher, addiction treatment specialist, and published author from the "Against the Stream Buddhist Meditation Society". In January/February 2016 New Life Foundation welcomed him back for his second annual silent retreat. For all those who couldn't make it, we recorded his nightly Dharma talks. Enjoy!

We also sat down with Dave for an interview: www.newlifethaifoundation.com/general/go…ave-smith/

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This talk discusses the idea of be awake or buddha

Dave Smith is a Buddhist meditation teacher, addiction treatment specialist, and published author from the "Against the Stream Buddhist Meditation Society". In January/February 2016 New Life Foundation welcomed him back for his second annual silent retreat. For all those who couldn't make it, we recorded his nightly Dharma talks. Enjoy!

We also sat down with Dave for an interview: www.newlifethaifoundation.com/general/go…ave-smith/

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This talk, from one of my last nights at ATS Santa Monica discusses the necessity of integration practice into all aspects of our lives. Viewing dharma practice as something that needs to be done, rather than dogma to believe in. The talk touches upon the 4 noble truths as tasks.

Dave borrows some teaching strategy from Buddhist teacher Chris Crotty: http://chriscrottydharma.org/

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The end of suffering is possible. Thus I've heard....this is the 3rd talk in the series from New Life Foundation. http://www.newlifethaifoundation.com/

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This is the talk follows the talk of the first noble truth given at New Life Foundation in Thailand. It outlines some perspective on how engage with the seemingly endless process of clinging and grasping. http://www.newlifethaifoundation.com/

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This talk was the opening talk to a retreat in January of 2015 at New Life Foundation in Chaing Ria Thailand. It offers some reflections on the reality of Dukkha-dissatisfaction. The theme of embracing the wisdom of dissatisfaction. This talk offers some person reflection.

http://www.newlifethaifoundation.com/

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Going Against the Stream: Mindfulness and Compassion to Awaken the Heart

During this 7-day Insight meditation retreat, we will learn to develop a greater sense of care for ourselves and for our world through the revolutionary practices of the Dharma. Using a hybrid of mindfulness, loving-kindness and compassion meditation techniques, we will develop emotional balance by uncovering what blocks us from our own well-being, and begin to free ourselves into the heart of wisdom and compassion.

Each day will include periods of sitting and walking meditation, Dharma talks, interviews and some group process. Through meditative insight, we see clearly that our thoughts and emotions don’t need to define or control us. In their greatest capacity, they can guide us towards what is most meaningful in our lives. At their most destructive, we’re caught by them: lost in the grip of anger, sadness, fear, or overwhelm. This suffering is natural and human, but we can learn to create more space, choice, and ease in the face of life’s inevitable ups and downs.

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This podcast has a 30 minute talk followed by a 30 minute guided meditation. Focussing on balancing the reality life being BOTH tragic AND beautiful.

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The teachings of the dharma is something to do, tasks to perform, ways of operating, behavior. It is not a dogmatic system of belief, but a pragmatic way of living. Dharma is the cultivation of a liberation based lifestyle.

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Ehipassiko: Come and see for yourself. All of the Buddha's teaching are meantime to be investigated within your own direct experience.

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This talk from a Sunday night at ATS in Santa Monica CA outlines the 4 foundations of mindfulness. Thus I heard...

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This talk was given at ATS Melrose in the spring of 2017. It outlines the goal of mindfulness practice as a strategy to overcome hindrances and cultivate awaken factors as outlined in the 4th foundation of mindfulness in the satipatthana.

http://rebelsaintdharma.com/resources/academic-dharma/

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Is there a difference between what Buddha may have said, and what he may have taught. This talk outlines the most basic features of what the earliest buddhist teaching point to. Come and see for yourself...

http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/390562.What_the_Buddha_Taught

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This talks points to basic aspects of Dharma, dissatisfaction, denial and ignorance. This talk was given at the ATS Center in Nashville TN in mid-2016 on a return visit.

https://againstthestreamnashville.com/

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A talk on embracing wounded-ness. Emphasizing that the hearts strength lies in its weakness. A call for vulnerability. The talk concludes with some reflection on the work of Mario Martinez.

http://www.beaboveleadership.com/2011/12/07/human-wounds-and-healing-fields/

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Mindfulness practice unites the steadiness of concentration with the immediacy of moment to moment experience. As we learn to collect the body and mind, intuitive wisdom arises. This allows us to open to the truth of each moment’s experience within and around us. Metta (kind-friendliness) meditation practice calls forth the beautiful spiritual emotions within our heart: kindness, compassion, empathetic joy and equanimity. Mindfulness of these qualities strengthens and brings them into fruition. This process guides our thoughts, attitudes and behaviors into the direction of awakening to our full potential.

http://vipassanahawaii.org/teachers/

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This talk was recorded at the Green Papaya Sangha in Chaing Mai Thailand in the winter of 2015. The talk explores my introduction to the dharma.

http://rebelsaintdharma.com/about/

http://www.newlifethaifoundation.com/

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This talk was given at Vallecitos mountain retreat center in northern NM, June 2017. This talk explores and offers practical instructions on the cultivation of gratitude & appreciate, aka Mudita. The talk is followed by a guided instruction.

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This talk was given at the Vallecitos mountain retreat center in NM, June 2017. The talk discusses how the cultivation of compassion can be established. The talk is followed by a guided meditation. Please enjoy.

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This talk was given at Vallecitos retreat center in the mountains of NM in June 2017. The talk outlines that compassion can be awaken thru embracing the difficulties that we face in life.

http://www.vallecitos.org/

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Reaching into the old archives, here is an old talk given on a Monday night class at Against the Stream.

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One from the ATS Nashville vaults: A reflection on the difficult to define, yet easy to notice process of papanca (mental proliferation) and some strategies to work with it.

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A talk given on sex, not sure where, December 14 2014.

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This talk was given at Insight Santa Cruz, November 2014. Dave had just left Nashville, on his way to relocated to LA.

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Mindfulness and the 4 Noble truths. A talk form 2014 at Against the Stream Santa Monica.

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A talk deep from the vaults of Against the Stream Nashville. A talk on karma, as related to right view.

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Another talk pulled from the vaults of ATS Nashville, the early years of Dave's teaching. Discussing the pali diad of Sadhha-Nekkamma (faith-renunciation).

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This was the opening talk at the opening of the Against the Stream Nashville Center on Charlotte Pike, it was freezing in the room. 1-27-2013

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Refections on love from the vaults of talks given in Nashville, a long time ago.....in a galaxy far. far away. Thus Ive heard.

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An old talk from the 12 South Dharma Center. Circa June 2012.

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This talk, deep from the vaults, was given at the 2nd anniversary of ATS-Nashville back in 2012. enjoy.

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A talk on sex, back from the days at the 12 South Dharma Center in Nashville TN>