Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Heart Of Practice NC
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| A Conversation with Sotesan and Emily Dickens [Throwback Dharma] | 29 May 2026 | ||
In this talk on using the Dharma to combat depression, Anne Freeman imagines a conversation between herself, Master Sotesan, the founding teacher of Won Buddhism, and Emily Dickinson. What do these two figures say about dealing with difficult emotions and the evening blues? How can we use meditation to clear the weeds of disturbance from our mind field? | |||
| True Nature | 27 May 2026 | ||
A student asked, "What was the substance before the myriad of things in heaven and earth came into being?" Nate Jackson (Won Jay Son) shares his reflections on Master Sotaesan's thoughtful response to this question as it relates to his journey. | |||
| Home Practice: One Suchness [Throwback Dharma] | 22 May 2026 | ||
How can we maintain the mind of equanimity we cultivate during meditation throughout the rest of the week? How can we practice at home with the same Zeal as at a retreat center? In this COVID-era dharma talk from July 2020, Reverend WonGong explores how to sustain our practice in daily life. Through cultivation, inquiry, and mindful choice, and employing the strategies she offers in this talk, the deep energy and mindfulness of a retreat are always available to us—right in the midst of daily life. | |||
| The Two Faces of Loving Compassion | 14 May 2026 | ||
Discover how love is expressed in Won Buddhism through the profound teachings of loving-kindness and compassion. In this talk, we explore the “two faces” of love—joy and sorrow—and how an awakened heart celebrates the wellbeing of others while tenderly embracing their suffering. | |||
| I am Enough; I am Whole | 12 May 2026 | ||
Rev. WonGong gives a talk on the theme "We Are One, We Are Whole" and invites us to introduce into our practice a mantra, "I am enough, I am whole." | |||
| Quality Over Quantity | 12 May 2026 | ||
Even a few minutes can transform your mind when you bring true presence—discover how the quality of your meditation matters more than the quantity. Take a moment to listen and reconnect with the depth already within you. | |||
| Mind The Gap: Realigning Our Habits [Throwback Dharma ] | 02 Apr 2026 | ||
Do your actions always align with your wishes? This is the question Won Buddhist practitioner, Paige Doster-Grimes, explores in this bright and clear dharma talk. Using the curiosity of children as inspiration, she shows us how answering that question can aid our practice. | |||
| Even in the Shadow The Moon is Full | 25 Mar 2026 | ||
In this insightful Dharma talk, Eric Priest explores the delicate distinction between our true nature and the ego. Using the classic Zen analogy, he reminds us that while our ego may point toward the truth, it is merely the finger pointing at the moon—not the moon itself.
Eric cautions practitioners against the subtle traps of the spiritual path, where one might mistake a fleeting moment of insight for mastery. Just as tasting a slice of cake does not make one a chef, clinging to spiritual ideas does not constitute realization. He emphasizes that true spiritual progress is found not in the concepts we hold, but in the sincere actions we take in our daily lives.
Join us as we reflect on how to move beyond the delusions of the "self" and ground our practice in lived experience. | |||
| The Functioning of Body and Mind | 23 Mar 2026 | ||
Join our good temple friend, Nik (Won HaeWol), as he shares insights on journaling and his intention to begin a new journaling practice. In addition, he explores how some simple habits in the day can help relieve stress and return to mindfulness. Please leave any thoughts or reflections in the comments | |||
| Guided Meditation on the Fourfold Grace | 19 Mar 2026 | ||
In this guided meditation, Rev. WonGong both elaborates upon, and also focuses the mind, to become aware of the Fourfold Grace here and now. http://wonscripture.org/Main/SubIndex... Join her in surrendering to this grace which is so pervasive, like oxygen, that it may be under the radar in the midst of the busy and distracted now. | |||
| The Three Truths | 16 Mar 2026 | ||
Michael Macklin gives his eye-opening take on The Truth of Il Won Sang and the stages of spiritual development along the Won Buddhist path. | |||
| Work and Practice Are Not Two [TBT Dharma] | 12 Mar 2026 | ||
Rev. WonGong delivers a Dharma Talk about the fact that work is practice, along with practical advice about how to approach work challenges, to the members of the North Carolina Temple on Sunday, July 18th, 2021.
| |||
| Minari: Garden of Cause and Effect [TBT Dharma] | 05 Mar 2026 | ||
Reverend WonGong reflects on the temple’s Minari garden and the profound
lessons found in this humble Korean vegetable. Once a few seeds are
planted, Minari spreads with the vigor of a weed, yet remains nutritious
and savory. In the same way, the blessings we sow in the lives of others
return to us many thousands of times over. | |||
| No Self in the Heart Sutra [TBT Dharma] | 19 Feb 2026 | ||
In this Dharma talk Rev. WonGong introduces the concept of "no self" as changing aggregates and presents ways in which we can conceptualize true nature in the realm of Il-Won-Sang. Presented to the members of the North Carolina Temple on Sunday, August 8, 2021 | |||
| Calendar Dharma | 14 Feb 2026 | ||
In reflecting on the significance of calendars, Reverend Wongong suggests that a well-structured life is the foundation of a life well-lived. Beyond simple organization, a calendar serves as a catalyst for commitment and a poignant reminder of impermanence. As the Reverend eloquently puts it: "Each day on the calendar is not merely a square to be filled, but a field of karmic cultivation." | |||
| Freeing Ourselves From Judgment [TBT Dharma] | 13 Feb 2026 | ||
In October 2018, Reverend WonGong discussed the importance of managing expectations and releasing judgmental thoughts. She encouraged us to ask, "Am I bothered by the person, or by their action?" By moving beyond dualistic thinking, we can embrace the sentiment of Buffalo Springfield: "If nobody’s right, then everybody's wrong." | |||
| Walking For Peace | 04 Feb 2026 | ||
In honor of monks' peace walk, Rev. WonGong shares her talk. "May our steps be gentle and grounded; may our hearts be resolved; may we walk in peace, for peace." | |||
| Meditation for Loving Kindness [TBT Dharma] | 29 Jan 2026 | ||
Guided Meditation on Loving Kindness. Perfect for the Valentines day season. | |||
| The Mind is Free from Disturbance | 29 Jan 2026 | ||
Reverend WonGong discusses the first of the Essential Dharmas of Daily Practice. The mind is originally free from disturbance. Therefore, all disturbances arise from sensory conditions. What are we supposed to do with this information? https://www.wonbuddhismnc.org/donations The First Essential Dharma of Daily Practice Won Buddhism of NC Download | |||
| Guided Meditation on Gratitude [TBT Dharma] | 15 Jan 2026 | ||
In this beautiful guided meditation by Rev. WowGong from November 2018, we are brought to a deep appreciation of the fact that all is grace. Learning to breathe in and breathe out gratitude, we release all our thoughts and dwell in a grateful mind. | |||
| To What Does The One Return | 14 Jan 2026 | ||
Holy North (Won JahYoo) offers a moving reflection on her personal journey through addiction and recovery. Drawing deep insight from the Won koan, "All dharmas return to one; to what does the one return?" she concludes that every individual is inherently perfect and complete exactly as they are. Through the lens of the threefold practice, she demonstrates how we can all evolve into more dedicated Dharma practitioners and more compassionate human beings. | |||
| Meditation is Simple and Easy [TBT Dharma] | 08 Jan 2026 | ||
If you’ve been looking to get started in meditation but don’t know where to start, look no further. Reverend WonGong gives a survey of all the forms of meditation that we use in Won Buddhism, including the Rag Doll Method. | |||
| Home of the Grand Universe | 30 Dec 2025 | ||
Our dear temple friend, Kathy (Won JiYeon), visited from the Won Dharma Center in New York. In this talk, she shares about how she came to walk this path of Won-Buddhism and how it led to her sharing the house of the grand universe with all of us. Please share your thoughts on Kathy's talk in the comments. | |||
| Returning to My Original Vow | 23 Dec 2025 | ||
A Bodhisattva takes the Four Great Vows. Reverend Wongong So reflects on how, in moments of self-doubt and spiritual ennui, returning to our original vows can help us remember the ultimate reason for our practice: Liberating ALL sentient beings. | |||
| Yin & Yang [TBT Dharma] | 18 Dec 2025 | ||
This is Part 1 of Reverend WonGong’s deep dive on Yin and Yang from August of 2017. Balancing Yin and Yang can be a vital step to improved functioning of body and mind. Learn what these terms actually mean, how they relate to karma and how balancing these dual principles can improve your physical health and general well-being. | |||
| Go Slowly | 16 Dec 2025 | ||
Our dear temple friend, Kelly gives a talk on progressing on the spiritual path and how faster is not always better. Please enjoy her thoughtful sharing and please share any reflections in the comments! | |||
| December Prayer 2023 [TBT Dharma] | 14 Dec 2025 | 00:04:45 | |
Podcast Notes: https://www.wonbuddhismnc.org/donations | |||
| The Art of Koan Practrice [TBT Dharma] | 11 Dec 2025 | ||
If you've ever wondered how to get started with Koan practice, this is the place to start. In Rev. WonGong & Rev. Song's talk on September 24, 2017, they discuss how Won Koans, or Hwadu, are intended to both reveal our True Nature and Illuminate Human affairs and Universal Principles. A koan can be a profound question or simply the question of why our washing machine keeps leaving stains on our clothes. | |||
| My Visit to India | 11 Dec 2025 | ||
Reverend Dr. Bokin Kim discusses her travels in India and reflects on the fact that the historical Buddha "was born on the road, lived on the road, and then died on the road." Demonstrating the ways in which Buddhism has continuously promoted equality, she teaches that the 4 Essentials are as integral to Won Buddhism as they are consistent with the Buddha's original teachings. | |||
| Gratitude: Healing the Relationship | 16 Nov 2025 | ||
Rev. WonGong shares her personal healing journey with her mother, who brought many challenges to their family. This talk serves as a living testimony to uncovering “Grace from Harm”, especially with our relationship with parents. | |||
| Blessing Words of Ven JukSanim | 02 Nov 2025 | ||
We are grateful to Ven. JukSanim, the Head Dharma Teacher of Won Buddhism, USA. He visited us from Won Dharma Center, Upstate New York to share his blessings on our 20th Anniversary Celebration. 감사합니다 (Kam Sah Hahm Nee Dah) | |||
| Where Should I Sit? | 24 Oct 2025 | ||
According to the scriptures of Won Buddhism, our actions should be based on sound thought. What happens when habits form, and actions become automatic? Rebecca Kameny reflects on the importance of heedfulness in knowing when to form a habit and when to break it. | |||
| Mindful Curiosity | 03 Oct 2025 | ||
Pete and Julie Warshaw gave this wonderful talk about Questioning, one of the 8 Articles, in April of 2019. While Questioning is an essential practice to cultivate, we must remember to fit it in with Faith, Zeal, and Dedication. Pete and Julie challenge us to think about how our ego and preconceived notions may be wrapped up in our deep questions and doubts. | |||
| Let The Practice Do The Talking | 02 Oct 2025 | ||
Our temple friend and member, Shauna Hay (Won SonHa), shares about how dedication and wisdom can help us master skills and learn things that we never imagined we could. Sometimes, the practice itself is our best teacher, even when the practice is standing on your head! | |||
| The Founding Motive: Am I Using my Phone or is My Phone Using Me? | 25 Sep 2025 | ||
Depending upon our choices, technology can be a powerful gift...or, it can drag us into misery! Won Buddhism's founding motive speaks to this directly. In this insightful talk, Patty Daniel (Hwa Tawonim) highlights how our practice aids us to appreciate and control technology rather than having it smother our lives | |||
| Two Principles of True Nature | 25 Sep 2025 | ||
What is the essence of the true nature of the universe? Although words and concepts cannot give us the full answer, they do give us glimpses of this fundamental Truth. In this insightful and informative dharma talk, Rev. WonGong beautifully guides us through the teachings and illustrations of true nature. | |||
| Why Do I Meditate? | 11 May 2025 | ||
There are many benefits to meditation and many ways to meditate. But what if the real reason we meditate is to increase our cool factor? Patty Daniels (HwaTawonym) discusses how gaining freedom of mind comes only through consummate practice and a great vow. | |||
| Releasing Judgement; Finding Gratitude | 07 May 2025 | ||
Listen to this talk to hear how the practice of bringing oneself back to the breath helped release self-judgement for one temple member. Keep listening to hear how the release of self-judgement, when combined with a gratitude practice, led to inner transformation. | |||
| Be the Light | 13 Apr 2025 | 00:14:44 | |
Upon his great awakening, Sotesan, our founding master, said: When the moon rises while a fresh breeze blows, the myriad forms become naturally clear. In this dharma talk, Reverend WonGong teaches us the meaning of this short verse and reflects upon the role of light in Won Buddhism. | |||
| Self Examination | 04 Apr 2025 | 00:11:41 | |
In this talk on using the Dharma to combat depression, Anne Freeman imagines a conversation between herself, Master Sotesan, the founding teacher of Won Buddhism, and Emily Dickinson. What do these two figures say about dealing with difficult emotions and the evening blues? How can we use meditation to clear the weeds of disturbance from our mind field? | |||
| The Mirror of Practical Practice | 11 Mar 2025 | 00:16:04 | |
This talk explores mindfulness tracking using diaries, apps, or small objects like beans. Kathleen Herr (Won HerrJu) shares personal experiences with tracking habits, including arriving early and speaking kindly. By observing patterns, they show how setbacks can lead to growth in mindfulness. | |||
| Numinous Awareness | 04 Mar 2025 | 00:20:43 | |
Reverend WonGong explores the concept of numinous awareness, a deep knowing beyond ordinary perception. She connects it to Buddhist teachings, nature, and meditation, emphasizing its role in understanding our true nature. Through reflection and practice, she encourages us to recognize this awareness in everyday life. | |||
| Il Won Sang Vow: A Review | 25 Feb 2025 | 00:15:58 | |
In this immensely helpful dharma talk, longtime practitioner Michael Macklin (HyoungSan-nim) beautifully guides us through the meanings and highlights of Won Buddhist teachings and philosophy woven together in the Il-Won-Sang Vow. In addition to sharing useful background information, Michael also points out how these teachings interconnect. | |||
| Everything I Thought I Knew About Gratitude was Wrong | 19 Feb 2025 | 00:09:30 | |
Longtime temple practitioner Rod Cartier shares his journey of discovering that true gratitude is not just about recognizing blessings but about actively giving back, leading to peace and deeper connections. | |||
| Sangha Garden | 05 Feb 2025 | 00:18:02 | |
Rev. WonGong reflects on all of the time and energy she has put into the gardens at our temple. Both the literal garden and the garden of our beautiful Sangha community. | |||
| Learning to Practice Equanimity | 04 Feb 2025 | 00:12:46 | |
Understanding the true meaning of equanimity can sometimes feel elusive, but even when its meaning is clear, the path to its practice may not be. In this informative and insightful dharma talk, longtime practitioner, Pete Warshaw (Won JeeHo), shares his journey to find equanimity's meaning and practice, as well as a helpful tool he discovered along the way. | |||
| How to Care for Hungry Ghosts? | 31 Dec 2024 | 00:11:51 | |
Hungry Ghosts, according to Temple Member Shauna Hay, are often desires that have never been satisfied and the “if only” mindset that comes with the fear of missing out. In her dharma talk, she discusses how we can love our hungry ghosts back to wholeness. | |||
| The Practice of Going Beyond | 24 Dec 2024 | 00:11:23 | |
In the heart sutra, we chant a mantra that translates to “Gone, gone, gone beyond, gone completely beyond, now awakened!” This mantra is a powerful reminder that awakening comes from moving beyond. But beyond what? What is it that we must go beyond to awaken? | |||
| Letting Go of Single Point of View | 02 Dec 2024 | 00:09:25 | |
Master Sotesan taught us that to cling to a single point of view is a pitfall on the spiritual path. Won JahYoo, Holly North, discusses the way in which strong views can cloud us from seeing what is truly right or wrong. | |||
| All is Grace | 26 Nov 2024 | 00:09:32 | |
Our Won Buddhist Scripture teaches us that All is Grace. But some things can definitely be unpleasant at times. How do we find Grace, even when things seem to cause us harm? | |||