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Building a Sangha
The details of this discussion focus on the meditation of the “Assembly of Stars” practiced during a 90-day winter retreat, allowing the discovery of awakening and freedom through deep contemplation of the physical body. The mindful practice of breathing calms the body and relieves pain. As Rohitasa learned from the Buddha, escaping the cycle of suffering does not require traveling quickly but deeply contemplating one’s own body. A tangerine contains the entire cosmos, symbolizing that we are connected to everything. By understanding interbeing, we transcend the duality between self and the universe. We are embodied with three bodies: physical, Buddha, and awakening, each containing seeds of enlightenment and compassion. Mindfulness nurtures these seeds, bringing peace and joy. The dharma body, strengthened by conscious breathing and presence, protects and heals. Building and nurturing a sangha, a community of practice, is essential to support spiritual growth. Collective practice brings energy, calm, and clarity, allowing the transformation of suffering. The three jewels - Buddha, Dharma, Sangha - are interconnected, each reinforcing the other. Recognizing our body as part of the cosmos transcends the fear of birth and death. Building a sangha brings joy, hope, and transformation, allowing us to manage happiness and suffering. Fully living the present moment with mindfulness creates joy and frees us from fear and anxiety about the future.