Citta Dharma/Philosophy

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The Philosophy/The Dharma

When we understand experientially the truth of insubstantiality, we can open to the radiance of life, a radiance that is not separate from the mind, body, or heart, but includes everything and is a part of everything. We are then free. We can joyfully participate in the noble human task of becoming fully human, wise and compassionate without imposing our selves on the planet. We can participate in and foster a world we want to live in without becoming the problems we wish to solve.

We are thus focused on transcendental transformation rather than transcendent or ephemeral (see Mary's 2004 publication, Being Prayer for approaching transcendent). The difference, the transformative difference, being between becoming more deeply intimate with one's personal experience (transcendental) and accessing awareness of one's consciousness as not separate from a larger consciousness (transcendent). These terms may also differentiate between non-dual as nonseparation of body and mind (transcendental) or non-dual as one consciousness (transcendent).

Citta is a word in Pali that refers to consciousness, but consciousness in a broad sense, including all constituent parts of human experience. The work we offer is an exploration of the breadth and depth of the human experience, through investigation of our own minds and bodies, developing understanding and skill in living fully, and in deepening personal contact with other[s], our interpersonal relating, and our planet.

This exploration is based both in contemporary science and in early teachings of Guatama, before Buddhism was considered a religion (Early Buddhism). The methods are generic, requiring no allegiance to any religious tradition. The work does require personal commitment, a willingness to take responsibility for every action, and also bears fruit in every investment we make. It is a foundation for richness in all our relationships, personal, professional, and planetary.