The meetings operate on a number of principles:
Please read it carefully if you would like to join the group
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1. That time is shared amongst those who wish to offer a reflection and not dominated by one individual.
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2. That reflections are offered without necessarily requiring response. Periods of silence following a reflection can encourage those to speak who haven’t already spoken.
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3. We encourage reflections from the heart and from our own experience rather than from theory or books although excerpts from suttas / books or poetry can be used for discussion.
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4. Our teachings are rooted in Forest Theravada and not Mahayana, Pure Land, new age, pagan, Christian, Islam, and so on, although these might be referred to.
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5. We encourage anyone who wishes to, to offer to introduce an evening. This is because sharing our perspective on Dhamma and how we apply it in our lives is a valuable source of development. This is entirely voluntary and to be agreed with the senior members. Do not feel discouraged if you are asked to wait a while before leading.
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6. No one should feel they are expected to speak. It is OK to remain silent during a discussion.
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7. Experienced practitioners use their knowledge and judgment to correct misunderstandings of the Dhamma. The right time to do this may not necessarily be during the meeting.
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8. Arguments over doctrine or teachings should be discouraged and the leader or a senior member may suggest a period of silence during discussion if this is felt to be useful in re-establishing a reflective atmosphere.