The Practicing Presence Satsang is an open, “drop-in” session which usually meets twice a month for approximately two hours at 7:30 on a Thursday evening.ooo
One of the principles on which this gathering is organized, is that of silence and meditation. The Satsang will usually begin and end with a period of directed and/or silent meditation. Both silence and meditation are seen as primary means of facilitating one to be in the present moment.
A second principle is that of personal/spiritual exploration. After introductions and reflections, the participants often share their experience of what has facilitated and what has hindered the practice of presence in their lives. This is typically followed by a directed triadic experiential process in which the participants explore some of the personal aspects of how they are living in the present moment or what keeps them from doing that in their phenomenal life.
A third organizing principle is the concept of “awareness seeking understanding“. The group is designed so that one can align or support what one knows in their heart is true, with a mind that can understand, accept or affirm this truth. Through this process, it is hoped that the spiritually inclined individual will find, develop or experience a “map” that can help them to become aware of, and live, in the “territory” or field, of presence or “now”.
This principle is accomplished through an intensive, interactive discussion based a selected book (see ooo below) or a specific topic related to presence such as spiritual surrender, ego attachments, no self, presence and time, or other related concepts. The intent is to develop understandings that will reduce emotional blocks or assist one in moving toward a resonant life of clarity and presence or to become conscious of what keeps one from this awareness and from awakening to their true Being. ooo
The discussion may use a variety of materials including videos, music, prepared writings or specific teachings. Often written materials are sent by Email to the members prior to the meetings to insure a common ground for this experience. During this process, various methods are employed to minimize egoic expression and bring the group back to silence and presence. The session usually ends between 9:30 and 9:45 with some centering music and a second period of meditation.
There is no specified fee for the Satsang. A suggested donation of $10, (plus or minus $10 depending on ones financial situation), is made for each session. Except for expenses, all monies received are given to various local and national charities.
Other than an open heart, and a positive intention, there is no specific background or previous attendance requirement to attend the group. Attendees are welcome to bring like-minded friends to the sessions. To facilitate planning, please let me know by Email who will be attending. __________________________________________________
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Satsang is Sanskrit word meaning a gathering of persons who are on a quest for SAT, that is, Truth, Ultimate Being or God. A Satsang is an “open space” in which the common spiritual practices of all religious traditions are respected, one in which those who are searching for spiritual truths may find guidance and mutual support.
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Further information on this type of group can be found in the essay, Sharing in a Practicing Presence Group, on the web site, www.casaelya.com
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We have used “The Power of Now”, “Searching for God”, and are presently using Tolles new book, “A New Earth”.
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Awakening to, or awareness of, who or what we truly are, is the intended non-goal process/outcome of the Satsang.
