THE POWER OF OPENING & CONNECTION Facing Difficult Times with an Open Heart

We live in a time of social unrest, uncertainty, climate change, political division, and disinformation. It’s natural to feel anxious and unsettled, wanting security yet fearing the instability around us.

In this state, we often turn inward in a self-protective way: building walls, blaming others, or numbing ourselves. But when we shut out pain, we also shut out joy, love, and connection.

From the Buddhist perspective, the problem is not simply “out there” in the world, but in how we relate to our own minds. Beneath fear and self-concern, we already possess innate wisdom and compassion. These qualities don’t need to be manufactured—they are part of our human nature.

In this talk, we will explore how, through the practice of meditation, we can uncover this natural clarity and warmth. Doing so allows us to see beyond the illusion of separateness and widen our circle of care.

In times like these, turning inward is not withdrawal—it is the first step toward building a society rooted in kindness, resilience, and genuine connection.

Join us for an evening of meditation, contemplation, and conversation.

THIS EVENT IS BOTH IN-PERSON & ONLINE. REGISTER USING THE LINK BELOW TO RECEIVE THE ZOOM LINK:

https://la.shambhala.org