Buddhism teaches that all things are of the nature to change. But often, things don’t change in the ways we’d like them to. So how do we deal with painful or unwelcome changes in our relationships, health, careers and life circumstances?

We invite you to join us in welcoming Mushim Patricia Ikeda—the esteemed writer, Buddhist teacher and activist—in her first teaching series with Tara Mandala, “The Problem with Impermanence.” In this series, Mushim will guide us through dharma talks, contemplations, and meditations all centered around the theme of impermanence. 

What Mushim calls the “problem with impermanence” is our desire for things to change according to our own needs and wants—and our resistance to the unwanted changes life often brings our way. As Mushim notes, even when we get the things we want, more often than not, the fulfillment of our desires brings new obstacles and challenges. 

In this series, you will: 

• Contemplate the core Buddhist teaching of the “three marks of existence” 
• Learn to develop the contemplative ability to be with life’s ups and downs
• Recognize the changes in your own life as a part of larger natural cycles
• Cultivate resilience in navigating increased uncertainty due to unsustainable consumption patterns and rising inequity 

We are all living in times of great change and uncertainty, both individually and collectively. When we come together in spiritual community (sangha) to meditate, question, grieve, celebrate, and listen deeply to different experiences and points of view, we can become wiser and stronger—together.

Is this your first program with Tara Mandala? In celebration of our 30th anniversary, we’re offering all first-timers a special $30 introductory rate for this program. 

Program Schedule:
This online series will be held Thursday July, 11, 18 and 25, 10am-12pm MDT. Please use this link to see how this daily schedule translates into your timezone.

Who Should Attend? 
This program is open to everyone!

Recording Access:
All participants will have a 1-year access period to the recordings.

What is a Tara Mandala Online Program?
Tara Mandala offers online programming via live and pre-recorded curriculum that give you the opportunity to access dharma teachings, engage in guided practice, experience personal retreat and hands-on learning, while connecting with other participants through easy-to-use online platforms and an engaged community network. When needed, the program description and schedule will inform you in advance if and when a specific online session must be attended live if a direct transmission (Tib. lung) may be given. Access to recordings of all sessions will be available for additional viewing for one year. 

Tara Mandala Pricing Guidelines
As we work to become an equitable, diverse and inclusive community, our pricing guidelines are intended to be a map, inviting each of us to take inventory of resources that contribute to our access to precious dharma teachings. While we do ask you to look inward, please know there is no right or wrong answer. We encourage you to select the range/rate appropriate to your circumstances. To learn more about Tara Mandala’s pricing guidelines for Online Programs, In-Person Retreats, and Special Promotions, please visit this page. 

Installment Payment Plan Option at Registration
During registration, students can either pay the program fee in full or select the Installment Payment option. If choosing the installment payment option, students will pay a 50% deposit upon registering and subsequent equal payments will be processed automatically every two-weeks. The final balance is due 14 days before the start of the program.

Deferred Payment Plans and Financial Assistance
Tara Mandala offers two types of financial assistance: Deferred Payment Plans and Scholarships. You may apply for one or both of these types of assistance. Read the terms carefully as outlined on the financial aid application. Please see this page for further information.

Offering dana to the teacher: The practice of offering dana, which means “generosity,” is the traditional offering the student makes to the teacher as a symbol of appreciation, gratitude, and reciprocity for receiving the precious teachings. Information on offering dana to the teacher will be provided during the program. To learn more about dana and suggested dana ranges, please click here.

Sustaining Sangha:
If you are currently a member of our Sustaining Sangha, you may apply your Online Program discount to this course. To learn more about Sustaining Sangha membership, benefits, and discounts, click here. 

Click Here for Our Online Programs Cancellation and Refund Policy