Awake in the World Podcast

In the final episode of our series on the core teachings of the Buddha, Michael reflects on how to face life's uncertainties without succumbing to fear. Drawing from the dying Buddha’s advice to his friend Ananda, Michael explores the importance of finding refuge within ourselves. Amidst the impermanence and fragility of life, the Buddha encourages Ananda to contemplate the body and mind with clarity, reminding him that all conditioned things eventually break down. Michael shares stories of students' sacrifices for the path, emphasizing the importance of trusting oneself and treading the path with care. The Awake in the World podcast is brought to you by the generosity of our amazing Patreon supporters, making it possible for us to keep Michael's archive of teachings available to the public. To become a patron, visit: patreon.com/michaelstone. Follow along with the Core Teachings of the Buddha playlist as we release new episodes: soundcloud.com/michaelstoneteaching/sets/core-teachings-of-the-buddha

Explore the Buddha’s insights on karma as a reflection of our actions, rather than fate. Delve into the essence of community in Buddhist practice and its relevance in modern mental health. Intriguing discussions on identity highlight that who we are is shaped through our choices, not fixed roles. Discover how resilience and self-forgiveness are crucial for personal growth, and investigate the relationship between intention and destiny in our daily lives. Insights on traditional health beliefs add a unique twist to this rich conversation.

In the sixth episode of our series, Michael explores how meditation can facilitate a gentle openness to life. Drawing from Allen Ginsberg’s translation of Basho’s poetry and the Buddha’s teachings on "Conditioned Arising" and "Consciousness," Michael delves into the interconnectedness of existence. According to the Buddha, even consciousness arises dependently, shaped by moment-to-moment conditions. Like a tree shedding its leaves, the mind can release its attachments to thoughts. Meditation acts as medicine, nurturing self-awareness and creating space for kindness towards ourselves. Join us to discover how meditation can help us connect intimately with ourselves and others. The Awake in the World podcast is brought to you by the generosity of our amazing Patreon supporters, making it possible for us to keep Michael's archive of teachings available to the public. To become a patron, visit: patreon.com/michaelstone. Follow along with the Core Teachings of the Buddha playlist as we release new episodes: soundcloud.com/michaelstoneteaching/sets/core-teachings-of-the-buddha

In the fifth episode of our series on the core teachings of the Buddha, Michael challenges common interpretations of nirvana and The Four Noble Truths. Drawing from "The Noble Quest" in the Majjhima Nikaya, Michael presents nirvana as something subtle and accessible within our lived experience, rather than a distant state to be attained through practice. The Buddha's awakening is portrayed as earthly and non-absolute, suggesting that nirvana is not a fixed destination but a continuous process. By literalizing religious concepts and grounding them in everyday life, the Buddha invites us to confront impermanence and let go of rigid identities. The Awake in the World podcast is brought to you by the generosity of our amazing Patreon supporters, making it possible for us to keep Michael's archive of teachings available to the public. To become a patron, visit: patreon.com/michaelstone. Follow along with the Core Teachings of the Buddha playlist as we release new episodes: https://soundcloud.com/michaelstoneteaching/sets/core-teachings-of-the-buddha

The podcast delves into letting go of rigid identities and embracing present moments through teachings of the Buddha. It explores symbolism of sacred fires, attachments, and the trap of spiritual materialism. The importance of non-attachment and letting go of perspectives is emphasized, reflecting on interconnectedness and conditioned behaviors.

The podcast explores the Buddha's teachings on transforming pain and uncovering truth. It discusses the importance of responding to suffering and dissatisfaction. Topics include the Eightfold Path, Four Noble Truths, and adapting Dharma teachings to various segments of society. It also touches on heartwarming moments at a memorable party and the teachings of Buddha on aging, death, and interconnectedness.

The podcast delves into the Buddha's Middle Way, emphasizing compassionate engagement with the present over seeking enlightenment. It explores ancient Indian culture, the concept of karma, and the importance of trusting personal experiences. The talk offers a fresh perspective on the Buddha's teachings for modern practitioners.

The podcast delves into the early teachings of the Buddha, exploring questions about creation, the soul, and the mind-body connection. It discusses the societal context of the time, class systems, and gender inequality. The episode covers Sanskrit terms, the Pali language, and insights from The Nikayas. Follow along with the Core Teachings of the Buddha playlist for more insights.

In this Best of Awake in the World episode Michael leads a 20 minute guided meditation on Mindfulness of the breathing body in the abdomen to settle thoughts. Recorded 2017. The Awake in the World podcast is brought to you by the generosity of our amazing Patreon supporters, making it possible for us to keep Michael's archive of teachings available to the public. To become a patron, visit: patreon.com/michaelstone.

This final episode of the unearthed Lotus Sutra podcast episodes, Michael discusses how the deepest practice a bodhisattva can ever do is to listen deeply and how the deepest thing we can ever experience is having a change of heart. This talk was recorded at Centre of Gravity's last evening at the Bellwoods location, July 12, 2011. The entire 2011 Lotus Sutra collection can be found on a nearly complete playlist here: soundcloud.com/michaelstoneteaching/sets/lotus-sutra The Awake in the World podcast is brought to you by the generosity of our amazing Patreon supporters, making it possible for us to keep Michael's archive of teachings available to the public. To become a patron, visit: patreon.com/michaelstone.