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“Mindfulness” is the topic for this month’s Sharing the Dharma Day at Sravasti Abbey — the Buddhist monastery in Newport — on Sunday Aug. 14, from 9:45 a.m. to 3 p.m.

From the Buddhist point of view, all pleasure and suffering originate with the mind. The talk by Buddhist nun and Abbey founder Venerable Thubten Chodron will focus on how mindful awareness of the state of our minds helps us to balance emotions and create causes for happiness.

Topics for Sharing the Dharma Day are drawn from Venerable Chodron’s book, Don’t Believe Everything You Think, published by Snow Lion. In addition to the talk, the day’s schedule includes a guided meditation, vegetarian potluck lunch, and facilitated discussion on the topic. The program is offered freely, and donations as well as food offerings for the resident nuns and monks are welcomed.

Sharing the Dharma Day offers a monthly opportunity for Sravasti Abbey to open its doors to people of all faiths and backgrounds who would like to know more about Buddhist teachings.

All are welcomed; friendly curiosity and openness to learn are the only pre-requisites. The first session begins at 9:45 a.m., potluck lunch is at noon, and the program ends at 3:00. Please bring food to share for lunch, avoiding onions, garlic, and leeks as well as meat, fish, or chicken.

Sravasti Abbey is located at 692 Country Lane, Newport. For more information and directions call 509-447-5549 or email office.sravasti@gmail.com. Additional information about Sravasti Abbey is at Sravasti.org.