Saturday, January 21, 2022
9:30 – 12:30 (arrive at 9:15 to be settled & start at 9:30)
In person (space limited to 25 to allow for distanced seating) and online

This meditation workshop will contain sitting & walking mediation as well as dharma talks on the Four Divine Abodes of lovingkindness, compassion, equanimity, and sympathetic joy. Also known as the 4 limitless qualities, the abodes refer to human emotions that, when activated, have the power to dissolve the boundary between ourselves and others, ourselves and the environment. It is a method of strengthening the wish for no-one to suffer and the wish to limit suffering. Acts of love and compassion come from being a loving compassionate person. With this contemplative practice, we are directing our thoughts and engaging our imagination to expand compassionate activity in a boundless fashion. Participants who attend in-person will have access to an option of meditative movement led by Sarah Liebau.

Andrea Darby is a long time mediation instructor and dharma teacher in the Shambhala tradition. She has led many intensive meditation retreats with a focus on compassion practice and meditation in everyday life. She is particularly interested in the intersection of contemplative practices and social action. Andrea, a former public school educator, lives in Western Massachusetts in a multigenerational household.

Rev. Karen G. Johnston is an ordained Unitarian Universalist who swims in the Insight Meditation stream of Buddhism. She gives monthly dharms talks as part of the online Monday Meditation & Discussion program at All Souls NYC. She is the Settled Minister at The Unitarian Society.

COVID precautions: Seating will be arranged following social distancing and masks will be required. We will have air filters operating in the primary room where we meet. Virtual attendance option is available (there is separate registration – see below). We ask that if you have symptoms of a contagious nature (even if you test negative for covid) to please attend virtually.

Click here to register for in-person attendance.

Click here to register for virtual attendance.

We encourage a voluntary expression of generosity (in Buddhism, often referred as “dana” and pronounced “donna”). While a financial donation to participate is voluntary, registration is required. When you register, you will be given the opportunity to donate as part of that process.  It is our hope that everyone who wants to attend will attend, whether they can donate financially or not. We take seriously the belief that by attending the workshop, you are contributing to the well-being of all.