Knowing the body without stories.

At the time of the winter solstice, we explore, through teachings, stories, and poetry, how we can embrace the dark - in stopping and being still, in opening to the unknown and to mystery, in being with difficulties, and in creativity and the coming of what is new - and open to the light, as it emerges from the dark.

This talk brings together the awakened states of metta, compassion, joy and equanimity into our Four Foundations of Mindfulness practice. Filled with stories, laughter and song.

Drawing on the Thai Forest Tradition, in particular Ajahn Mun, Ajahn Chah and Ajahn Maha Boowa, we explore the image of the one seat as a pointer to freedom.

Using as reference points Mary Oliver's poem, "The Journey", the story of the Buddha's life, and our own experiences, we outline the archetypal stages of the spiritual journey from the taken-for-granted habitual life, to receiving "heavenly messengers" putting that life in question, to shifting our core life intentions, to working with challenges, to awakening, and, finally, to a return to the "ordinary" world.

Practical examples and tools for living these teachings in our lives.