Turning Toward the Sacred Wound

Dakinis Whisper
Jul 22
2 min read

Updated: Aug 16

A Year-Long Journey on Grief, Compassion, and the Path of the Dakini

1st Sunday of the month, starting on Oct 5

OPEN TO ALL with REGISTRATION

In these challenging times, we find inspiration in our upcoming year-long book club. This club will explore grief, compassion, shadow work, and Buddhist practice. We will draw on the wisdom of Francis Weller, Shantideva, and Machik Labdrön. This book club is envisioned as a ritual-infused, contemplative space. It will serve as a container to hold the raw, tender, and often unspoken aspects of the human experience within a Dharma context.

The Importance of Community in Grieving

In our modern world, communal spaces for grieving and deep reflection are often missing. Even within Dharma communities, these themes can be overlooked. This book club presents a precious opportunity to explore essential human experiences together. We will root our discussions in the view and practice of the Dharma.

Core Themes (Rotating Monthly)

Grief as a portal to compassion
Communal ritual and collective healing
Shadow work and radical self-honesty
Tonglen, Chö, and the offering of suffering
Resilience as relational and spiritual strength
Integrating the Five Gates of Grief (Francis Weller) with the Bodhisattva Vow

Key Elements Each Month

Each month, we will engage in several key activities:

Reading Reflection: We will read a short chapter or passage.
Dharma Talk or Guided Practice: This may include Tonglen, Chö, or a grief ritual.
Group Sharing: We will have sangha-style, heart-centered discussions.
Creative Expression: Participants can express themselves through poetry, movement, or art.
Monthly Ritual: Each month will feature a ritual aligned with the grief theme, such as offering, ancestral honoring, or a candle vigil.

The Power of Ritual in Healing

Rituals play a vital role in our healing process. They help us connect with our emotions and the community around us. By participating in these rituals, we can honor our grief and transform it into compassion. This transformation is essential for personal growth and collective healing.

Embracing Shadow Work

Shadow work involves confronting the parts of ourselves that we often ignore. It requires radical self-honesty and courage. By engaging in this work, we can better understand our grief and its impact on our lives. This understanding can lead to profound healing and a deeper connection with ourselves and others.

The Role of Compassion in Grief

Compassion is a powerful tool in navigating grief. It allows us to connect with others who are experiencing similar feelings. By fostering compassion within ourselves, we can create a supportive environment for healing. This book club aims to cultivate that compassion through shared experiences and discussions.

Monthly Themes and Activities

Each month, we will focus on a specific theme related to grief and compassion. These themes will guide our readings, discussions, and rituals. By rotating themes, we can explore different aspects of grief and its relationship to compassion.