Standing on the Threshold

What can we say to a friend whose heart is broken by grief?

How can we connect with a parent struggling with ill health or dementia?

How can we support a partner diagnosed with a life-threatening illness?

How can we stay sane and be kind to ourselves in the process?

It’s normal and deeply human to feel helpless and overwhelmed when we are confronted by these situations. In this workshop, we will explore how we can be there fully while being aware of but not limited by our fears and concerns. Kirsten will share from her own experience caring for people for more than twenty-five years and introduce practical contemplative methods inspired by the Buddhist tradition. These methods can support us to develop greater self-kindness and care for a person’s deeper needs and questions.

When we dare to stand at the very threshold of life and death with another, we have the chance to cultivate fearless compassion—and to enter sacred space.

This workshop will include short talks, guided reflections, and time for your questions. Everyone is warmly welcome.

Kirsten DeLeo is a meditation teacher, spiritual care trainer and author of the award-winning book “Present Through The End. A Caring Companion’s Guide for Accompanying the Dying”. In 2002, she helped to pioneer “Authentic Presence”, one of the first training in contemplative end-of-life care in the US. Kirsten has been immersed in Buddhist practice for over twenty years, including attending a three-year meditation retreat. Kirsten lives near the Dzogchen Beara Buddhist Meditation Centre in West Cork where she teaches regularly and supports the guests of the Spiritual Care Centre. Kirsten is known for her clarity and warmth and shares the practices of meditation and compassion in a down-to-earth way.

More about: kirstendeleo.com

Date and times: Saturday 28 January 2023, 10.30-12.30 and 14.00-16.00

Location: This is a hybrid course with two options:

• Follow in the Rigpa centre, 3rd Floor, 12 Wicklow Street, Dublin 2 (entrance: glass door to the left of shop)
• Follow online via Zoom

Cost: By donation (suggested donation EUR 65). Your donation, whatever the amount, is greatly appreciated. It will support the activity of the centre and help us to keep offering more workshops like these in the future.

Further information

Email: dublin@rigpa.ie         Web: www.rigpa.ie/dublin

Tel: 01-6703358