Doug has Covid, Jon has a bad microphone, but they're chatting about the Buddha and voting anyway, as well as Buddhist practice and voting. What does 2024 bring for us in the voting booth, and how should we frame our political choices?To register to vote, and check voter registration in the US:https://vote.gov/Support the showGo to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/

A recent podcast series at the Financial Times discussed serious problems several meditators have had at one popular ten-day Vipassana retreat system. Jon and Doug discuss this and some important work by Brown psychology professor Dr. Willoughby Britton.Links:The Retreat — an investigative podcast into the perils of meditation [Financial Times] -- https://www.ft.com/content/b3ec8e57-5cf9-4f96-9267-56c3bcd9c102The Hidden Risks of Meditation — Dr. Willoughby Britton | The Tim Ferriss Show — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdmvoX1RZWA Cheetah House: Help for Meditators In Distress -- https://www.cheetahhouse.org/Book: Trauma Sensitive MIndfulness, David TreleavenSupport the showGo to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/

As Jon prepares for his move, he and Doug dive into the transformative power of renunciation. They discuss what we truly need versus the excess of our material lives. The conversation emphasizes simplifying through decluttering both spaces and minds. Personal stories reveal how letting go of possessions can lead to joy and personal growth. Through it all, they explore the emotional journey of releasing attachments, reminding us of the beauty in simplicity and the freedom that comes with it.

Silence plays a profound role in meditation and Buddhist practice, transforming both mind and spirit. The hosts delve into the contrast between external quietness and internal noise, stressing the importance of mindfulness. They discuss the nuances of charitable listening in politics, promoting understanding over assumptions. The complex emotions triggered by silence, especially in retreat settings, are explored, showcasing the importance of compassion. Personal experiences from retreats highlight the varied emotional journeys silence can inspire.

Discover how Buddhist practice intertwines with the arts and entertainment, exploring historical tensions between artistic expression and monastic principles. Delve into the evolution of art through the ages, from ancient techniques to modern interpretations influenced by technology. Experience the journey of creativity as a spiritual endeavor, and understand the significance of mindfulness in artistic expression. The podcast also reflects on the representation of the Buddha and the balance between attachment and letting go in both art and life.

Bhikkhu Anālayo is a renowned scholar and teacher well-versed in early Buddhist texts. He delves into the evolution of the Bodhisattva ideal, tracing its roots back to the Buddha and discussing its significance in modern life. The conversation contrasts the paths of Bodhisattvas and Arahants, emphasizing compassion, generosity, and community. Anālayo also highlights the transformative power of altruism and mindfulness, showcasing how embodying these virtues can lead to profound personal and communal growth.

Explore the four stages towards enlightenment in Buddhism, including stream entry, once returning, non-returning, and arahantship. Delve into the challenges of spiritual progress, hierarchical nature of these stages, and pitfalls of overidentification. Reflect on the Buddha's presence, crossing the stream of self, and the importance of humility on the spiritual path. Discover insights on overcoming doubts, internal validation, and the connection between spiritual progress and desires like coffee.

Author Dhivan Thomas Jones discusses the Buddha's teaching on dependent co-arising in Buddhism, exploring its implications on individual and societal dissatisfaction. The podcast delves into the concept of untangling the self, the relationship between the Four Noble Truths and dependent origination, and the importance of recognizing the links to alleviate suffering and achieve liberation. The conversation also touches on karma, meditation, societal change, and the significance of support and enjoyment in life.

Equanimity, a vital quality in Buddhism, is explored in depth, underscoring its role in achieving a balanced heart and mind. The discussion highlights how this concept aids in healing personal pain and confronting societal injustices. Listeners are invited to consider the impermanence of equanimity, the pitfalls of perfectionism, and the importance of acceptance in transforming suffering. Practical tips for cultivating this quality in daily life encourage listeners to find serenity amidst chaos.

Explore letting go of attachment and fear, benefits of pausing between stimulus and response, slowing down through mindfulness practice, and the ongoing challenge of giving up coffee for health benefits.