On Thursday and following on from Prasiddhi’s presentation about conflict and resolution,, Buddhasevaka was invited to introduce us to the Triratna Earth Sangha.

He started with a settling meditation, using the Metta Bhavana method to cultivate stillness within ourselves before turning our attention outwards to the wider world.

In his presentation, he told us that the Triratna Earth Sangha were a group of Order members, Mitras and Friends worldwide, who are deeply concerned about the climate and ecological crises, and see responding to them as part of Buddhist practice.

We learned that the reason for the existence of the organisation was to use Buddhist teachings to speak directly to the roots of ecological suffering; namely, the ‘three poisons’ of greed, hatred and delusion.

He ended the presentation by telling us how we can take part. He offered the cultivation of connection, a practice of ecological awareness and direct action to raise attention, such as street meditation. He was happy to hear suggestions from the Sangha regarding the pursuit of a practice in Stockport.

After the break, Dharmakasara led a special puja, with poems, readings, and an introduction to the dhammapalam gatha.