March "One Community" Gathering

Exploring the Heart Sutra
Part Three: Wisdom and Compassion in Action

Details:

In our final session, Justin Kirkwood will help us weave the wisdom of the Heart Sutra into our lives, bringing together the teachings of the past two sessions with practical applications for modern living.

The Heart Sutra is not just a philosophical teaching—it’s a guide to living with wisdom and compassion. When we truly understand emptiness, we begin to see that life is not a series of isolated events or individuals but a vast, interconnected flow. This insight frees us to let go of attachments, soften our struggles, and connect more deeply with the world around us.

In this session, Justin will:

• Revisit the key themes of the Heart Sutra in a clear, cohesive way.
• Explore how wisdom (emptiness) and compassion go hand in hand on the Buddhist path.
• Offer guided reflections and practices to help us integrate the teachings into our daily lives.
  Key Questions We’ll Explore:

• How can seeing the interdependent nature of life help us respond to modern challenges, like stress, polarization, or uncertainty?
• What happens when we let go of rigid ideas about who we are and how life “should” be?
• How can this teaching empower us to act with greater kindness and clarity toward ourselves and others?

This month’s Sangha gathering: Tuesday, March 11th, 5:30-7:00 pm MDT

Location: Online or in person in Missoula, MT

Justin Kirkwood will be teaching online only. For those located in Missoula, you are welcome to join a group who will be receiving the teaching together at the Namchak office. For those unable to join in person, the teaching will also be live-streamed via Zoom.

About Justin Kirkwood

Justin Kirkwood is a dedicated dharma student and teacher with over 20 years of experience in studying and practicing Buddhism. Formally trained in monastic universities in India, Justin had the privilege of studying and practicing with many renowned Tibetan masters. He has also worked as a Tibetan translator and interpreter for over fifteen years, deepening his understanding of the sacred texts. Justin is a vital member of the Namchak Foundation, serving as a translator of texts, an interpreter for Namchak Khen Rinpoche, and a teacher.

About One Community

Each month, we come together for an evening of connection and learning to deepen our understanding of the dharma and build meaningful relationships within the sangha. Led by a Namchak teacher, thought leader, or staff member, each gathering revolves around a specific theme and lasts 90 minutes.

The session begins with a dharma talk, followed by a Q&A and sometimes a brief meditation. After the 90-minute session closes, participants are welcome to stay online or in person for an optional informal discussion lasting up to 30 minutes.

We invite Learning Circles, meditation buddies, and individuals to join us, and encourage you to bring friends, family, neighbors, or co-workers along to share the experience.

Address and Zoom Link

Missoula address and Zoom link will be provided upon registration.
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Host or Publisher Namchak