MDB Training
Modern times require modern skillful means for achieving genuine happiness. In the summer of 2009, Dzigar Kongtrul Rinpoche first introduced the topic of “becoming a bodhisattva in modern times,” and he began to outline a vision for establishing a Modern Day Bodhisattva (MDB) Training course. We are pleased to announce that the first MDB Training will be offered in Boulder, Colorado in the fall of 2011. It will be open to Rinpoche’s students and to the general public alike. This course distills teachings onMDB training into practical stages that prepare us to become bodhisattvas.
A bodhisattva is someone who engages deeply in life and aspires to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. Enlightenment is realized not by achieving something externally or by manipulating the world, but by seeing things as they are. From that realization, a deep yearning to benefit beings (bodhicitta) effortlessly arises.
In our fast, technological, contemporary world, we may feel far removed from the circumstances in which bodhisattvas were formerly trained. Yet, our modern, everyday circumstances offer us the best opportunity to practice letting go of our small self and to develop the altruism of a bodhisattva. In this context, Rinpoche has coined the term MDB. As Rinpoche says, the MDB “strives to become a lamp for others: for friends, family, community, and all others with whom he or she is in contact.”
MDB Training has two main objectives. The first is to study Rinpoche’s teachings on becoming a bodhisattva, including the 2009 Mahayana Seminar and the book Uncommon Happiness. We will cover the topic of renunciation, the logic and practice of relative bodhicitta, the sixparamitas(perfections), and the four magnetisms. The second, equally important objective is to guide participants toward developing a contemplative practice around bodhicitta. Students will do various meditation and self-reflection exercises and will keep a contemplation log. The course will be guided by an MSB khenchung(director of study and practice), who will comment on the MDB teachings, and will lead guided meditations and discussions.
This first MDB Training held in Boulder will start in November and will meet Monday evenings for six weeks (more information is below). Those who do not live near Boulder may attend by teleconference. Another training will take place next spring at Pema Ösel Do Ngak Choling in Vershire, Vermont.
All of the trainings are open to both Buddhists and non-Buddhists. There is no prerequisite, nor any required follow-up. We do, of course, hope that people will continue with their practice of self-reflection and meditation—the foundation of all MDB activity.
On October 23, Bob Reid will give a Link teaching on the web with further description of the MDB Training course, so please tune in at 10 a.m. Mountain Time.
COURSE INFORMATION
MDB Training Facilitator:Bob Reid - khenchungbob@mangalashribhuti.org
MDB Training Online Registration:
If you are interested in attending the MDB Training please Register Here.
Course location:
Snow Lion School
2575 Glenwood Drive
Boulder, CO 80304
Course dates/times:
Dates: Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28, Dec. 5, 12
Time: 6 – 8 pm
Teleconference:
Conference Dial-in Number: (605) 475-4900
Participant Access Code: 624200#
Please use a land-line to call in.
Course Fee:
$30 donation, payable to MSB by check or cash.