Samsara and Nirvana - Discovering Buddhism 9 with Jampa Dekyi

The terms 'Samsara' and 'Nirvana' describe how life is, and how it could be. We are all stuck in samsara - our ordinary lives that seem to be an endless cycle of hope, struggle, achievement and disappointment, where somehow we don't seem to be able to stay happy for very long. But things don't necessarily have to be this way. The Buddha taught that is is possible completely transform our lives and experience a state of lasting happiness, freedom and joy. This is nirvana - an imperturbable peaceful and positive state of mind. In this module of Discovering Buddhism, we will explore the profound teachings that clearly outline the mechanisms of cause and effect. These teachings show us how we create our own difficulties, as well as how we can break free of the cycles that keep us locked in to unhappiness and suffering. We will investigate how we can empower ourselves with practical tools that will give us the confidence, commitment and energy for spiritual transformation. Saturday 10 September 9.00am - Sunday 11 September 3.30pm. Facility fee $150. 10% discount for members and concession card holders. Accommodation and meals available separately. Meals must be booked before 9.30 am on the day of the event. All bookings can be made on our website www.chenrezig.com.au Venerable Jampa Dekyi claims to have led a fairly “normal” life even though she lived in the Solomon Islands for 25 years, operated a business with her late husband, and is the mother of four children. All that changed however when she met the Dharma (the Buddha’s teachings) in 1992 and realized immediately that there was no other way for her to live. She was ordained by Geshe Tashi Tsering at Chenrezig in 1993 and since then has lived and taught at Chenrezig Institute, and Vajrayana Institute in Sydney and at Tushita in India. Now back at Chenrezig she is known for her relaxed and down to earth approach.

Established 1974, Chenrezig Institute is a centre for Buddhist study, meditation, retreat and practice nestled in the foothills of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. The Institute is home to a Tibetan Geshe (Lama), a large community of ordained Sangha (monks and nuns), students, residents, volunteers, retreat goers and guests.

Apart from the formal study programmes, Chenrezig Institute is a peaceful, calm and relaxing place to spend a few hours, days or weeks. Stroll along the bush paths, wander in formal garden, espresso in the cafe or a vegetarian meal.

Teachers’ availability subject to change; please refer http://www.chenrezig.com.au/programme/monthly-calendar/ for updated information.