Just Enough: Buddhism and Debt, Mindfulness and Money February 6, 2010

The Buddha said, “There is no river like craving. Rivers can sometimes fill their banks, but the wants of human beings can never be filled…Even if money were to fall from the skies like rain, the sensual desires of human beings would not be satisfied.”

That desire is inexhaustible is obvious as we observe the current economic situation. Our own experience of desire or anxiety is also obvious. Is there a Middle Way when it comes to money? While we humans have an insatiable craving for things, the good news is that we have another kind of desire – a desire for the true well-being of ourselves and others. Making and spending money can be a means to an end – the end being the development of happiness that is not dependent on external things.

In this class we will explore how to:

• Shift from the pursuit of material happiness to a happiness independent of external conditions.

• Increase awareness of money, spending, and debt.

• Bring ethics and wisdom to how we earn or spend money.

• Apply what the Buddha taught about money, and use practical tools of personal and financial awareness.

Presenters:
Patrick Bansho Green and Laura Jomon Martin

Offered by Heart of Wisdom Zen Center, the Portland branch of Great Vow Zen Monastery.

Official Website: http://www.zendust.org/justenough.htm