Rebel Buddha is the title of the latest book by Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche, the founder and principle teacher of Nalandabodhi. It is getting quite a bit of buzz in Buddhist circles as it is delivering a contemporary view of Buddhism and delivering teachings in a real-world manner.  Be sure to look for a book review on this blog shortly…

For more information on the event, check out the Rebel Buddha website here where you can get all of the details you’ll need for this very special day.

Gonkar Gyatso is to be credited with the exceptional design of the Rebel Buddha on the cover of this book. I took some liberties above to Fall-ify his design to make it suit our Canadian climate. Please visit his website to see more of his work as he is a true talent as you can see from these images below.

Dive In - Photo by Mike Baird http://www.flickr.com/photos/mikebaird/2843864615/

Buddhadharma magazine ran a great series on “Going it Alone” in their Spring 2010 issue and delved into the secret lives of solitary practitioners and their various experiences. There’s a great piece by Judith Lief titled “Get Ready to Dive In” which I wish I had in my hands back when I was a teenager scouring my local library and second hand booksellers for anything with Buddha or Buddhism in the title. I didn’t have a sangha in my community and through word of mouth, I was able to find a woman who I had coffee with a few times who had been on retreats and traveled to hear Buddhist teachings. I was overwhelmed and filled my head with a jumble of readings – some a bit too advanced for my level of experience or examination so no doubt, I became frustrated with the process.

Judith’s article speaks much to this and she gives one of the most profound, yet simple pieces of advice that I’ve seen in some time -

So before you launch into further study, study yourself.

I was fortunate to study and practice at the Halifax Shambhala Centre and then completed the Sacred Path Shambhala training program at the Montreal Shambhala Centre. This gave me a greater sense of discipline and a structured and graduated way of discovering the Buddhist path under the watchful eyes of generous teachers who challenged and supported me along the way. I then found a local Nalandabodhi group to begin Buddhist studies with and have found my study to have been enriched by their primary belief that Buddhism is a ‘science of the mind’. Geeks!!

For those who like the support of a community, many schools and centers are offering their curriculum in the digital space not to mention all many who make up the digital sangha of the buddhablogospher/ twangha.  Of the two experiences I’ve had on the path, I personally appreciate both, each for their own reasons. As a lazy meditator, I really need the support of folks around me as I can get caught up in householder tasks if I stay in my home with the good intention to press behind to cushion. It’s all about balance for me and I do feel challenged in keeping my online participation at a happy medium.

Well this lack of blogging can be partially attributed to the Mahayana courses I’m taking with Nalandabodhi Montreal and the positive effects its having on my practice. It’s great to be back with the sangha and to be able to discuss the coursework with others who are also navigating their way on the path. The readings are pretty meaty with my old buddies Nagarjuna and Shantideva making guest appearances in the teachings of Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche (the happy looking gentleman on the right).

There’s plenty that I struggle with, especially when getting into the territory of philosophy and partless particles. Whew. What’s important for me is not to get discouraged when I wade into the deep waters of material that would be more apt to frustrate me and scare me away forever from Buddhist studies. I’ve made the commitment that no matter how flustered I get in trying to wrap my head around some of the concepts I encounter, I will work towards generating an understanding of it.. bit by bit.. in due time.

In other news, I’m working well with my current state of unemployment and really dedicating time to figuring out what my true calling in life is. I’ve always hopped into jobs related to the career path I established 10 years ago without regard to whether it was contributing to my inner harmony as well as creating a better world around me.

I can only wish that I can transfer my knowledge in marketing and promotion to be used for good. I’m toying more with creating my own business and have a few ideas rattling around in my head. Given the economy, it might not be the recommended time to jump into entrepreneurship, but I’m embracing the uncertainty and jumping in feet-first to discover my new calling.

I find Bodhi magazine’s analysis of the various traditions very helpful as they give in-depth coverage through the use of charts, visuals, biographies, teachings and commentaries related to the key events and figures of each tradition.There is a lot to chew on within the pages of this magazine and always proves to be a worthwhile read.

Bodhi magazine is affiliated with Nalandabodhi, a Tibetan Buddhist organization under the leadership of The Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche. I’d encourage you to check out an issue (or two or three) should you be interested in reading some of the best articles available on both historical and contemporary Tibetan Buddhism.

FRESH HEART: Meditation for the Curious
A teaching series on shamatha meditation – calming meditation. Starts September 24 in English (17th in French).  Fresh Heart is based on teachings by The Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche and is a great opportunity to enrich your understanding of meditation. Newcomers and experienced mediators alike are welcome. Write Jason@nbmontreal.org or call 514-484-0868 for more information.  Leave you name and number and your call will be returned.

Sponsored by the Nalandabodhi Montreal Study Group, this class focuses on the Four Noble Truths, interdependence, karma, and our perceptual and conceptual mind

This class is open to beginners in Buddhist studies.

Call 514-484-0868 or write Jason@nbmontreal.org for details.

For information and registration, please email Jason@nbmontreal.org and let him know that TMcG sent you.

While you wait for this course, check out this little clip with The Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche. Not sure if there will be turbulence in this course.. but we’ll see.

For many years, I was reading various books and lacking a focus or a plan – but with this approach- starting where I am, it’s falling into place- making sense yet also leaving me with many questions. Such an exciting space to be in!