Offered through the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) and taught by Jon Nimitz, Ph.D. All will be in-person at UNM Continuing Education, 1634 University Blvd. NE, South Building. Registration by phone (505-277-0077), fax (505-277-1990), mail, online, or in person. Osher membership is $20 a year, sometimes rebated toward class registration. Info and registration available at http://ce.unm.edu/olli/. An Osher catalog listing many interesting and inexpensive classes on a variety of subjects is available for free on request or by visiting the office.
BUDDHISM
Buddhism appeals to many Westerners because it’s nonjudgmental, requires no faith, and teaches ways to reduce suffering. It encourages personal responsibility, mindfulness, and compassion for ourselves and others. In this class we’ll discuss the life and times of the prince who became the Buddha, his search for enlightenment, his teachings, the historical development of Buddhism, plus current branches and their practices. We’ll also discuss the work of some modern-day teachers including the Dalai Lama, Thich Nhat Hanh, and several prominent American authors. We’ll enjoy slide shows, videos, and readings, as well as discussions. This class assumes no prior knowledge, but also goes into reasonable depth to interest those with some experience. It’s designed not as a dry academic exercise, but to provide and expand tools for a happier life. Four two-hour meetings, Friday mornings 10 a.m to noon, June 9-30, 2023. Registration $55 (course 19813).
THE ZEN OF THICH NHAT HANH
Thich Nhat Hanh was a Buddhist monk and Zen master from Vietnam. He was a poet, writer, teacher, and peace activist, and was nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. His students knew him affectionately as “Thay” (Vietnamese for teacher). In three class meetings we’ll cover (1) the basics of Buddhism, (2) the history and teachings of Zen, and (3) Thay’s main teachings and practices. We’ll enjoy slide shows, videos, readings, and discussions. No prior knowledge is assumed, we’ll start with the basics, but will also go into reasonable depth to interest those with some experience. Three two-hour meetings, Friday mornings 10 a.m. to noon, July 14-28, 2023. Registration approx. $45 (course 19831).
SPIRITUAL AWAKENING
What is spiritual awakening, and how can we attain it, or at least move in that direction? Is enlightenment gradual or sudden? Hint: this class will bring you one step closer! Throughout the centuries several traditions have taught ways to become more enlightened. We will focus on spiritual teachings from Hinduism, Buddhism, 12-step programs, and Eckhart Tolle. With slide shows, videos, class discussions, and at home we will explore practices including meditation, mindfulness, gratitude, chanting, and experiencing nature, music, and poetry. Five two-hour meetings, Fridays 10 a.m. to noon, Sept. 1-29, 2023. Registration approx. $65 (course 19826).
Quiet Mind Sangha Albuquerque 