Spring is in full bloom and love in the air. So let's look back at this Dharma Talk from February of 2019, right around Valentine’s Day. Is there only one love, or are there many kinds? Although the word “love” rarely appears in Buddhist scriptures, Reverend WonGong So reflects on the concept of Maitri and how it applies to the Western understanding of the word. True love, she suggests, exists in the selflessness of "no-self." This perspective goes far beyond romantic love, offering a deeper understanding of what it truly means to love unconditionally.
Even in the Shadow The Moon is Full
In this insightful Dharma talk, Eric Priest explores the delicate distinction between our true nature and the ego. Using the classic Zen analogy, he reminds us that while our ego may point toward the truth, it is merely the finger pointing at the moon—not the moon itself.
Eric cautions practitioners against the subtle traps of the spiritual path, where one might mistake a fleeting moment of insight for mastery. Just as tasting a slice of cake does not make one a chef, clinging to spiritual ideas does not constitute realization. He emphasizes that true spiritual progress is found not in the concepts we hold, but in the sincere actions we take in our daily lives.
Join us as we reflect on how to move beyond the delusions of the "self" and ground our practice in lived experience.
Minari: Garden of Cause and Effect [TBT Dharma]
Reverend WonGong reflects on the temple’s Minari garden and the profound lessons found in this humble Korean vegetable. Once a few seeds are planted, Minari spreads with the vigor of a weed, yet remains nutritious and savory. In the same way, the blessings we sow in the lives of others return to us many thousands of times over.
No Self in the Heart Sutra [TBT Dharma]
Great Loving Compassion [TBT Dharma]
With emotion and deep wisdom, Rev. WonGong reminds us that we all have the seeds of compassion and Buddhahood within us. She describes how "Buddha" and "Bodhisattva" are synonyms and their application melt away the three poisons of greed, anger, and delusion. All of this can be realized by letting our own little lights shine, no matter how small each little flame may appear to be.
Walking For Peace
In honor of monks' peace walk, Rev. WonGong shares her talk. "May our steps be gentle and grounded; may our hearts be resolved; may we walk in peace, for peace."
Guided Meditation on Gratitude [TBT Dharma]
In this beautiful guided meditation by Rev. WowGong from November 2018, we are brought to a deep understanding that all is grace. Learning to breathe in gratitude and breathe out gratitude, we release all our thoughts and dwell in our true, grateful nature.
Meditation is Simple and Easy [TBT Dharma]
From October 2018: If you’ve been looking to get started in meditation but don’t know where to start, look no further. Reverend WonGong provides a survey of the forms of meditation used in Won Buddhism, including the Rag Doll Method.
Home of the Grand Universe
Our dear temple friend, Kathy (Won JiYeon), visited from the Won Dharma Center in New York. In this talk, she shares about how she came to walk this path of Won-Buddhism and how it led to her sharing the house of the grand universe with all of us. Please share your thoughts on Kathy's talk in the comments.
Returning to My Original Vow
Yin & Yang [TBT Dharma]
This is Part 1 of Reverend WonGong’s deep dive on Yin and Yang from August of 2017. Balancing Yin and Yang can be a vital step to improved functioning of body and mind. Learn what these terms actually mean, how they relate to karma and how balancing these dual principles can improve your physical health and general well-being.
Blessing Words of Ven JukSanim
Mindful Curiosity
Pete and Julie Warshaw gave this wonderful talk about Questioning, one of the 8 Articles, in April of 2019. While Questioning is an essential practice to cultivate, we must remember to fit it in with Faith, Zeal, and Dedication. Pete and Julie challenge us to think about how our ego and preconceived notions may be wrapped up in our deep questions and doubts.
Let The Practice Do The Talking
Our temple friend and member, Shauna Hay (Won SonHa), shares about how dedication and wisdom can help us master skills and learn things that we never imagined we could. Sometimes, the practice itself is our best teacher, even when the practice has you standing on your head!
Two Principles of True Nature
What is the essence of the true nature of the universe? Although words and concepts cannot give us the full answer, they do give us glimpses of this fundamental Truth. In this insightful and informative dharma talk, Rev. WonGong beautifully guides us through the teachings and illustrations of true nature.
Meditation: The Art of Balance
When it comes to meditation, have you ever wondered, "Am I doing this right?" Paige Doster-Grimes discusses the need for engaged calmness during meditation, emphasizing the importance of being alert and grounded in the present moment. Giving Master Sotesan's instructions for meditation, she tells us how to manage both drowsiness and/or a busy mind.
Linda (Won InDoh) The 2025 Dharma Name Recipient
Receiving a Dharma Name is a great honor that represents an absolute commitment to the Won Buddhist path. Linda Cato received her name in 2025. This is her reflection on the journey that brought her there.
Divine Pumpkin Vines
Dharma shines brightly from so many places – even pumpkin vines! In this delightful talk, Rev. WonGong shares insight into the way dedicated teachers help guide their students. Just as she carefully uncurls the tendrils of misdirected pumpkin vines, our teachers help us untwist our clenched tendrils, so we can grow in beneficial directions.
Gratitude and Service: A Wonmu's Path
How special that we have the very first Won Mu (Lay Minister of Won Buddhism) in our temple community! Kathleen Herr is a dedicated and loving Won Mu. In this talk, she shares her heart-full words of wisdom on her practice journey.
Christine (Do Banh) The 2024 Dharma Name Recipient
Receiving a Dharma Name is a great honor that represents an absolute commitment to the Won Buddhist path. Christine Donovan Ball received her name in 2024. This is her reflection on the journey that brought her there.