In our FBA Dharmabyte today, Viriyalila conjures up the image of the rock tumbler to explore how the practice of sangha creates jewels. But it’s the granite bottomed rivers in NH that gets evoked – in their crystal clarity and beauty may the Bodhicitta arise. “Bodhicitta Arising through Collective Practice,” is one of three short talks given at Aryaloka Buddhist Center, November, 2010 titled “Three Perspectives On the Practice of Spiritual Friendship”.

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To appreciate the significance of the 25th Anniversary of the Triratna’s sole retreat center in America, Nagabodhi takes us back 2500 years to the time of the Buddha through the early years of the movement right up to the present day and onwards into the future.

This week’s FBA Podcast, “Reflections on Aryaloka” is an inspiring and well thought out talk including stories about Sangharakshita and Aryaloka’s early pioneers. Nagabodhi offers one man’s perspective on bringing Buddhism to the West: A story of heroism, gratitude and love for the Dharma.

Talk given at Aryaloka Buddhist Center, New Hampshire USA, August 2010

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In this week’s FBA Podcast, “The Power of Empathy,” Vajrasara explores metta (loving kindness), the subtle art of listening, and Kuan Yin, the mysterious white lady of Compassion.

One of a series of talks on the theme of ‘A Force for Good in the World’, given in the Dharma Parlour at the 2010 Buddhafield Festival in Somerset, UK

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In today’s FBA Dharmabyte, “Just Be Friendly,” we took a sampling from a very forthright and passionate talk by Vajratara, titled “Chetul Sangye Dorje.” She may be talking about the great contemporary Tibetan teacher, but her main focus is on the need to practice the Dharma for others as part of a meaningful community. Vajratara argues her case with a balance of down-to-earth humour and uncompromising vision.

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Our FBA Podcast this week, “The Buddha and Friendship,” by Vajratara, begins by looking at how the symbols of the individual spiritual journey is really a story about a network of relationships. Every symbol is born out of relationship.  It’s living tradition that gives confidence, it’s not about your own individual practice – your own individual practice is just a part of the Buddhist tradition and the Buddhist community.

With references to Indra’s Net, from the Avatamsaka Sutra, Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra and descriptions of the Bodhicitta, Vajratara delivers an inspiring and engaging look at how our collective practice is essential for the arising of the Bodhicitta.

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