Living the Wisdom of Lojong: A Course in Applied Mind Training

We’re delighted to share that the Mind Training study group will relaunch this January as a new course in applied practice.

This course offers an opportunity to explore the classic Buddhist teachings known as Lojong, or “mind training.” These teachings are organized into short, memorable sayings, called aphorisms, that serve as practical reminders for cultivating compassion, resilience, and wisdom in everyday life. Whether you are continuing on from 2025’s Mind Training: Foundational Texts Review, or joining us for the first time, you’ll be warmly welcomed.

This round of classes will cover a large number of the aphorisms from the classic Seven-Point Mind Training teachings, placing special emphasis on practice and integration. The usual 18‑month curriculum, led by Tim Campbell, has been condensed into an 8-month course, allowing us to focus deeply on the core aphorisms from Points 1 and 2, which establish the foundations of mind training, while also engaging with key selections from Points 3–7.

Together, we’ll reflect, discuss, and apply these aphorisms, bringing their wisdom into the challenges and opportunities of modern life.

Logistics & Schedule

Start Date: January 8
When: Every 2nd and 4th Thursday
Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Where: Hybrid format—in-person at KCC and on Zoom
Text: Training In Compassion, by Norman Fischer

The Heart of the Practice

As the poet David Whyte reminds us, “There’s a small opening at the beginning of each day that closes the moment you begin your plans. What you can plan is too small for what you can live.” In that spirit, we’ll keep our structure focused but flexible, while staying centered on practice.

Before the first class, we will send out your initial reading assignment. The subsequent bi-weekly rhythm will follow this pattern:

• 2nd Thursday Class (Practice Initiation): We will come together to explore the questions and insights from the previous two weeks of study. The core focus will be to understand, “What is the practice?” We will then engage in the active practice of the specific aphorism, committing ourselves to it for the next two weeks.
• Between Classes (Two Weeks): Participants engage in the committed, real-world practice of the aphorism.
• 4th Thursday Class (Review & Introduction): We will review our practice efforts, dialog about any issues or questions that arose, and refine our engagement. We will then introduce the reading assignment and contemplation theme for the next two-week cycle.

This practice-focused cycle ensures we are using the aphorisms not just as philosophy, but as tools for transformation. We invite both continuing participants and newcomers to join us in this journey of practice and discovery and hope to see you there!

This course is offered on a sliding scale to honor diverse circumstances. Participation is open to all, regardless of financial means. We ask that everyone register, and those with the ability to contribute more are warmly invited to do so, supporting the sustainability of our programs.