Martin writes: “Sangha is about community, support and love; it is one of the 3 jewels (Buddha-Dharma-Sangha) of our practice. But in the individualistic cultures and atomised structures in which many of us live, sangha too often gets inadequate attention. This is especially true in the Vipassana / Insight meditation tradition, because while silent meditation retreats give us a deep sense of community support while the retreat lasts, they do not help foster ongoing supportive friendships. You need to talk to people for that!
We are collectively facing precipitous ecological degradation, political polarisation and existential threats to life on earth. Fostering the mutual support and understanding of real community is vital. We have to live together. Community gives us belonging and love, strength and support. Spiritual community, local community, community of affinity; we need and long to be seen, valued and understood by those we live with.
Worldwide Insight is soon to undergo a major upgrade to its style, its focus and its offerings. Sangha will be at the heart of how we offer teachings and support all of you who attend, and this Sunday, I’ll be at Worldwide Insight with y’all, to explore sangha. Together.
We’ll look at ways to foster depth of community, support and friendship. We’ll look at opportunities for connection with other practitioners as well as with our neighbours and with those in need whom we may be able to support. We’ll look at some of the inner obstacles and defences which can stop us opening up to others, and we’ll make time for some rich discussion. Together.
Join me today. To meditate, reflect and explore. Together.
With love
Martin”
Discussion