Buddhist Studies
Winter 2020: Mindful Speech & Deep Listening
Aware of the suffering caused by unmindful speech and the inability to listen to others, I vow to cultivate loving speech and deep listening in order to bring joy and happiness to others and relieve others of their suffering. Knowing that words can create happiness or suffering, I am determined to learn to speak truthfully, with words that inspire self-confidence, joy, and hope. I will not spread news that I do not know to be certain and will not criticize or condemn things of which I am not sure. I will refrain from uttering words that can cause division or discord, or that can cause the family or the community to break. I will make efforts to reconcile and resolve all conflicts, however small.
~ from For a Future to Be Possible by Thich That Hanh
Taught by Joen O’Neal
In this course, we will look deeply into the ways we create happiness or suffering with the words we speak and the ways we listen. By bringing mindfulness to the basic human practice of speaking and listening, we will explore the opportunities and challenges that arise with every sound we utter.
We will study excerpts from the book For a Future to Be Possible by Thich That Hanh, as well as writings by other teachers, ancient and modern. The course will include presentations by the instructor, discussion, and suggestions for home practice.
Each session will also include meditation practice with instruction.
Joen O'Neal is a Guiding Teacher of Compassionate Ocean Zen Center. She teaches this course periodically in the conviction that all of us can benefit from support in this crucially important aspect of human life.
Registration Information
Wednesdays, January 22 - March 11 (eight sessions) (#B92)
7:00-9:00 P.M.
$160 (members $150) (includes course materials)
Member rates apply to members of all local Buddhist centers. Reduced fees are offered as needed; please contact the Center at (612) 781-7640.
Enrollment for classes is limited, and early registration is encouraged. You may print and mail a registration form or register online.
Printable registration form (PDF) to print and mail.
Register online. The classes are listed in the Program Fees section of the online form.