In today’s fast-moving world we are facing the daunting issues of the Covid pandemic, economic and racial injustice, the violent storming of the Capitol, climate change, and more. Even so, is it possible for us to cultivate happiness? A happiness steeped in clarity, wisdom and calm that will allow us to live with a personal sense of well-being and help us to be effective in helping others and making positive changes in the world?
In this 4-week study and reflection program our focus with be on the ideas presented by Matthieu Ricard’s in his book, Happiness: A Guide to Developing Life’s Most Important Skill. We had originally called this a book club, but in the spirit of our Dharma practice and with a recognition of current events, we have shifted our language to name this as a study and reflection on this important topic.
The outward freedom that we shall attain will only be in exact proportion to the inward freedom to which we may have grown at a given moment. And if this is a correct view of freedom, our chief energy must be concentrated on achieving reform from within.
-----Mahatma Gandhi, as quoted by Matthieu Ricard.
The program has no charge and will take place February 1 through February 26, 2021. All members who join will be assigned to a small group that will meet four times via Zoom. Each group will have a facilitator to keep the discussion lively and to guide the reflection and discussion. Our organizer, John McHarris will be sending periodic reading assignments and questions for reflection.
Once you have registered, please obtain a copy of the book and begin reading.
REGISTRATION PROCEDURE
Please read the information below before you click to register!
When you register, you will be asked to indicate your preferences for the one-hour discussion groups offered through Zoom. The following six discussion groups will be listed, and you will be required to score each group as one of the following: my first choice, my second choice, cannot do, or could do but not preferred. Please have your calendar available when you register so that you can complete this part of the registration process accurately.
Group 1: Monday mornings, 11:00 am, Feb 1, 8, 15, 22
Group 2: Monday evenings, 7:00 pm, Feb 1, 8, 15, 22
Group 3: Tuesday evenings, 6:00 pm, Feb 2, 9, 16, 23
Group 4: Wednesday mornings 7:30 am, Feb 3, 10, 17, 24
Group 5: Friday mornings, 11:00 am, Feb 5, 12,19, 26
Group 6: Friday evenings, 7:30 pm, Feb 5, 12,19, 26
Registration will be open through January 24. We will let you know your group assignment after the registration period ends.
If you have any questions please contact John McHarris at jmcharris2@gmail.com.
