Dharma Geeks: Seeing things as they are
“We see pictures in time and place. We cannot see them otherwise. They are fragments of our lives, moments of existence that may be as unremarkable as rain or as startling as a clap of thunder. Whatever we are that day, whatever is going on behind our eyes, or in the forest of our lives, is present in what we see. We see with everything that we are.”
Dharma Geeks is a gathering for people who enjoy thinking creatively together about Dharmic ideas as they show up in everyday life. Each session centres on a single theme—an idea we spend time with through practice, reflection, and conversation.
When I was ordained almost 30 years ago, my preceptor gave me the name Vajradarshini, which means ‘she who sees the reality of things’. The Buddhist term Yathā-bhūta-darśana, meaning ‘seeing things as they really are’, has fascinated me since then. Together we’ll unpack the meaning of this intriguing phrase. In what ways are we distorting our sense of ourselves and the world? How might we see things more in accord with reality? And the million-dollar question: how are things really?
All times are GMT (UK Time)
Part One (10:00–11:00) · Introduction and meditation
After a brief welcome, I’ll offer some of my own reflections on the theme to set the scene, along with a few questions for personal reflection. The morning will include a short qigong session and a guided meditation, both connected to the theme.
Part Two (11:15–12:00) · Creative conversation
After a short break and some quiet time for individual reflection, we’ll come back together for a shared, creative conversation. While our starting point is Dharmic, other perspectives are very welcome—artistic, philosophical, religious, or personal. We don’t need to stay within purely rational discussion either; you’re welcome to bring a poem, image, or story.
You’re welcome to leave after the first part if you’d prefer to stay with your own reflections, or you can join us for the conversation that follows.
Dharma Geeks is not an academic study group, and it’s not about arriving at answers. It’s for people who get a kick out of exploring ideas together, and who are curious about how they can be lived and practised in everyday life.
In case you can’t make it on the day part one of the session will be recorded. After the event I'll send out a video and audio recording as well as any quotes or links from the session.
Choose the price that feels right to you -
£20 Supporter
£15 Regular
£10 Concession
If finances are very tight, please get in touch for a free spot.