Living as Meditative Inquiry
Event: A weekend retreat with Dr. Ashwani Kumar
Date: August 21-23 (Friday evening 7 pm to Sunday afternoon 4:30 pm)
This experiential retreat provides an opportunity to experience the significance of meditative inquiry for living a holistic life.
Dr. Ashwani Kumar is currently a Professor of Education at Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax. He has been seriously engaged with J. Krishnamurti’s work for more than 10 years. He has spoken at Krishnamurti schools and study centers in the US, Canada, the UK, and India. He is also the author of the book Curriculum As Meditative Inquiry which explores Krishnamurti’s insights regarding meditation, consciousness, and education.
Meditative Inquiry (variously also called “meditation,” “pure observation,” “awareness,” and “attentiveness”) forms the core of J. Krishnamurti’s teachings. In this workshop we will together explore the meaning and significance of meditative inquiry and its significance for living a holistic life.
Krishnamurti always emphasized that we should be a light to ourselves. Respecting his understanding and suggestion, we will explore the questions, fears, and doubts that form our very consciousness. This workshop will provide an opportunity for a collective dialogue about what hinders a meditative state of mind which results in uncreative and unhappy living. This discovery undoubtedly requires an open mind, serious interest in self-understanding, and a willingness to explore together.
As human beings we are all capable of inquiry, of discovery, and this whole process is meditation. Meditation is inquiry into the very being of the meditator. You cannot meditate without self-knowledge, without being aware of the ways of your own mind, from the superficial responses to the most complex subtleties of thought. I am sure it is not really difficult to know, to be aware of oneself, but it is difficult for most of us because we are so afraid to inquire, to grope, to search out. Our fear is not of the unknown, but of letting go of the known. It is only when the mind allows the known to fade away that there is complete freedom from the known, and only then is it possible for the new impulse to come into being.
J. Krishnamurti
Activities will include talks with Q&A, dialogues, a video and meditative nature walks.
Cost:
Early-bird rate (30 days in advance):
Double occupancy w/ meals- $220
Commuters- $170 w/ meals; $120 w/o meas
Regular rate:
Double occupancy w/ meals- $250
Commuters- $190 w/ meals; $140 w/o meals
Private room option on a first-come basis: $50
We wish this event to be affordable for everyone with a deep interest. If you are experiencing financial constraints, please contact the program manager, Ralph Tiller.
