Florida Community of Mindfulness

The Verses on the Faith Mind (1 of 7)

“The Great Way is nor difficult for those who do not pick and choose. When preferences are cast aside, the Way stands clear and undisguised.” With this direct challenge to the reader, the Third Chinese Zen Patriarch begins his much loved and revered, “Verses on Trust in the Mind.” In verse form, the Third Patriarch in a profound and insightful, yet decidedly simple and accessible, manner sets forth the way to living a life of freedom. 

This classic text of pre-koan Zen/Ch’an Buddhism introduces us directly into the world of the Buddha Mind and shows us step by step how to live an awakened life in all circumstances of daily life. Unencumbered by any philosophical or religious overlay, the naked truth of enlightened living is presented in utter simplicity and relevance.

Fred taught this text to participants at a seven-day retreat at Southern Dhama Retreat Center near Asheville, NC, drawing on his meditative experience in the Zen, Dzogchen (Great Perfection), and Plum Village traditions, as well as his many years as a professional psychotherapist.

Mindfulness of Unfolding Events

Taking Care of Difficult Emotion

The Teachings of Zen Master Lin Chi (2 of 2)

The great ninth century Chinese Zen master Lin Chi is considered one of the most highly regarded of the T'ang period masters. In this two-part series, Dharma teacher Fred Eppsteiner teaches about the life and major teachings of Master Lin Chi.

The Teachings of Zen Master Lin Chi (1 of 2)

The great ninth century Chinese Zen master Lin Chi is considered one of the most highly regarded of the T'ang period masters. In this two-part series, Dharma teacher Fred Eppsteiner teaches about the life and major teachings of Master Lin Chi.

Our Hidden Stories - Understanding the Impace of the Storehouse Consiousness

In this talk, Dharma teacher Fred Eppsteiner discusses the Yogacara model of the mind. He explains that although there is an objective, consensual reality that can be experienced through our five senses, most of the time we live in an unreality manufactured by our mind. He explains the 6th sense of the thinking mind, and how our thoughts, memories, stories, and emotions that color the reality of the present moment are arising from what is termed the storehouse consciousness. When we understand this process occurring unconsciously and cultivate mindfulness, then we can begin to challenge these thoughts about reality that often bring us suffering. The basic question to ask is "Is it true?". It is very important that we have the fundamental willingness to be aware that reality and our thoughts are not the same. Our meditation practice allows us to see the difference.