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About SMCLA
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How to Participate
How does one participate in the Shambhala community? Whatever
has brought us to the meditation tradition, whether it was a friend's
suggestion, a book by Pema Chödrön, or any other auspicious
coincidence, the first step is to sit. There are many ways to get
involved, but the foremost is to practice sitting meditation at
a Shambhala Meditation Center. Group sitting encourages our meditation
practice. Attending group sitting also supports others in their
practice. Therefore, sitting at the Shambhala Center is a way to
help others as well as ourselves. The more we fill the Shambhala
Center with meditation, the more powerful and magnetizing it will
become for others. In that way, we can build a thriving practice
community.
Traditionally it is said that the path has three aspects: meditation practice, study, and engaging in activity. SMCLA offers many opportunities to practice, study, and engaging in community activities. One's first offering could be presence in
the meditation hall. Consider attending sessions of meditation
on a regular basis. If the Center is not open at a time that suits
your schedule, consider offering to lead a new session at a time
that does. As Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche said, "Sitting
is a jewel that ornaments our precious life."
For an overview of the Shambhala path, please visit the Shambhala International website.
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