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Back to Programs

Deep Relational Wisdom of Mettānattā

  • Gregory Kramer
  • Residential
  • November 2, 2027
  • November 14, 2027
  • Tuesday - Sunday
  • 12 nights

This retreat will explore relational wisdom as it arises in relational meditation practice. Together we will learn and practice mettānattā, the unification of mettā–and all the brahmaviharas–and not-self, anattā.

Relational contact can amplify anger, fear, and delusion, but it can also strengthen wholesome meditative qualities. The Buddha described relational contact as a necessary condition for arousing right view. Wisdom grows with a perspective that understands but extends beyond our conditioned views. Relational dharma opens an understanding of our relational nature that encompasses the vastness of suffering and our liberative potential.

The Buddha’s teachings on the emptiness of all things, particularly the constructed nature of the self, might suggest to some a solitary path. Yet relational wisdom reveals the not-twoness of mettā and anattā and shows us how silent meditation and Insight Dialogue can be joined to form a unified practice of mettānattā.  Through practice, we will also explore how experiences of depth relatedness connect inner peace and responsive compassion, how wisdom and love are one.

Program Format: This retreat includes silent meditation, Dhamma talks, Insight Dialogue, group investigation, Dharma Contemplation, and the wakefulness encouraged by the natural world.

Noble Silence:

Noble silence will be observed during much of this program. Some contemplative exercises may involve mindful speaking and listening. Noble silence is to be upheld at all other times.

Experience Level:

Suitable for intermediate and advanced practitioners.

Prerequisites:

The prerequisite for this program is prior participation in an Insight Dialogue retreat or permission of the instructor.

Cancellation Policy:

We understand that personal circumstances may require you to cancel your registration. In these cases, please contact us right away. If you cancel more than eight weeks before the program starts, you are eligible for a full refund minus a $50 administrative fee. If you cancel between three and eight weeks before the program starts, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the deposit. Registration fees are nonrefundable less than three weeks before the program starts.

Schedule:

Arrival day: 3:00 – 5:30 PM 

Departure day: Noon (Leave campus by 2:00 pm)


Full Day Schedule (may vary slightly): 

6:30 am       Wake-up

7:00 – 7:30 am  Group sitting practice

9:00 am – noon   Morning Session

2:00 – 5:00 pm  Afternoon Session

7:00 – 9:00 pm  Evening Session