Via GBF: "Intimacy With the Yourself" with Daigan Gaither

Our latest dharma talk is now available.

Here's a 60-second audio preview

(part of our "Dharma Wisdom Nuggets" series)

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How can we become truly present and engage with each moment we experience?

In both interpersonal relationships and self-reflection, Daigan Gaither advocates for an open, curious approach where we allow things to be as they are, rather than forcing them to fit preconceived notions. This approach, he suggests, fosters deeper connection and understanding with ourselves and others, as well as with the world around us.

Daigan explains that we often misinterpret our emotions by labeling them (e.g., calling a physical sensation “anxiety”) and then react to those labels instead of the actual experience. This creates layers of stories and emotions, leading us further from the original feeling.

He encourages us to stay curious about our experience, letting go of certainty and rigid identities, and allowing the experience to tell us what it is. By doing so, we avoid creating fixed identities or stories about ourselves and our emotions, which can lead to suffering.

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You can watch or listen to the full talk on our website or YouTube:

Intimacy with Yourself – Daigan Gaither | Gay Buddhist Fellowship

Intimacy with Yourself - Daigan Gaither 2024-09-15 (youtube.com)

or listen on your favorite podcast player.