A Conversation on Dzogchen
C von Hassett & Rachel Reid Wilkie
at Joshua Tree Retreat Center
As the evening sun set behind the Joshua Tree Retreat Center, we were captured on film as we shared, with our warm and loving audience, our conversation on Dzogchen, the Nature of Mind and how to recognize this already awakened mind in Meditation. Our talk began with how Dzogchen, this unique Tibetan practice, is different from other Buddhist philosophies, and how being in the presence of a Great Master is fundamental in furthering our understanding of the practice, of recognizing then resting in the Natural State. Yet the point was also made on how one can indeed glean important instructions, and essential insight, from reading and studying the texts and books by these masters which are, now, widely available. We touched on the vast discussion of Space and Emptiness in relation to Quantum Physics, the human body and the underlying omniscient consciousness which pervades all, including our very own awareness. We spoke of how the conceptual perception of Emptiness can, perhaps, be better understood as the Impermanence of all things; the fact that Change is indeed the only dependable permanent occurrence we can rely on. We also talked of the I-Entity, and how this relentless protagonist of dualistic thinking continues to feed the habitual, conceptual mind. Our conversation led us to understanding the importance of cultivating a natural integration of our formal meditation practice into the multitude of daily activities through mindfulness. Finally, we discussed how addictions, anxiety and fear will naturally fall away as a result of regular meditation practice and in their place will return the presence of essence love, kindness and compassion.
Grab yourself a cup of tea and enjoy!
Rachel & C von
Signed copies of Entering The Mind are now available for sale at the Joshua Tree Retreat Center.
The book is also available online here.
We are truly grateful to Joshua Tree Retreat Center for their support in hosting this event, and we are extremely thankful to Ghia for their generosity in providing sophisticated non-alcoholic refreshments!
Thank you!
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