The Emptiness of Change
An Ocean of Nectar Silent Retreat with Gen Samten Kelsang
June 20 – 25 | Registration Opens April 29 at 2pm
Change is everywhere. It pervades every part of our lives - seasons change, societies transform, our days exist in constant flux, and our moods, thoughts, and emotions fluctuate moment by moment. Some changes are for the better, others for worse. We can resist change or accept it. Through acceptance of life's inevitable changes, we can learn to go with the flow, adapt, be flexible, and grow. Buddha's teaching on the truth of subtle impermanence helps us understand and find peace in this ever-changing world. While understanding and accepting change leads to peace and tranquility, Buddha encouraged us to look deeper - to see that change itself is simply an illusion and cannot be found. Through this realization, we find true and lasting liberation.
To help us realize the emptiness of change itself, Buddha gave a special teaching called Vajra Fragments. In this teaching, Buddha meticulously examines every aspect of the process of change. He shows how to gain spiritual liberation and renewal through the insight that these constant changes, woven into every single aspect of our lives, are empty, unfindable, illusory, and exist only at the level of mere name. This five-day silent retreat will be an experiential and meditative exploration of impermanence and the emptiness of change, grounded firmly in the context of our daily lives - the things, events, and people that matter most to us. Gen Samten will give lucid and practical instructions with unparalleled clarity. The focus will be on reaching a deep level of tranquility and insight over these five days, and leaving with practical tools that will help transform our spiritual lives in meaningful ways as we return to our daily routines and activities.
Teacher: Gen Samten Kelsang
One of Venerable Geshe-la’s senior disciples, Gen Samten Kelsang oversees the spiritual program at KMC New York, and teaches throughout the US and around the world. Having engaged in a three-year meditation retreat, he is renowned for the clarity of his teachings, ability to help students improve their practice, and skill in leading practitioners to profound meditative insights.
Course Information:
There are three parts to registration: course fee, accommodations and meals. Certain types of accommodation may require booking for the full event. Dorm and BYO camping accommodations are usually available by the night. Please confirm availability at booking. Our meals are vegetarian, with vegan and wheat-free options, and are cooked onsite by our resident chef.
Retreat: Full Retreat — $125 | Friday — Sunday $60
Meals: $10/each lunch or dinner