Purification of the Motive: Class Series with Dana DePalma and Ying Chen

Registration opens on July 13, 2026

Teachers
Dana DePalma & Ying Chen

Format
Three live online sessions on Sundays, November 1, 8, and 15, 2026, from 9:30 am – 11:15 am PT.

Description
All experience is preceded by mind,
     Led by mind,
     Made by mind.
Speak or act with a corrupted mind,
     And suffering follows
As the wagon wheel follows the hoof of the ox.

All experience is preceded by mind,
     Led by mind,
     Made by mind.
Speak or act with a peaceful mind,
     And happiness follows
Like a never-departing shadow.

— Dhammapada 1-2

The striking opening verses of the short, profound, and poetic teachings from the ancient Pali Canon text, Dhammapada, bring home the role of our minds, intentions, and motives in how they shape our experiences and lead to empowerment, choice, well-being, and freedom.

This three-part class series will explore "Purification of the Motive" in depth, as part of our fall theme on this topic. Utilizing the Naturally Arising Practice Method, we ground ourselves in the wholesome first practice ground, where our hearts and minds become settled and aligned with wholesome intentions, as best we are able. From this ground, we will open to explore different facets of this purification process:

We learn to be attuned to the movements of our minds and hearts, and we recognize how sometimes the movements are driven by reactive desires and aversion, and sometimes the movements are a natural unfolding of the wholesome flow.
We come to know the role of intentions in our lived experiences: how the mind can slip into a self-centered achievement orientation rather than staying connected with the wise intentions of non-clinging, renunciation, and kindness.
Through clear knowing, we open to the possibility of choosing "non-suffering over suffering."

This purification process is gradual and profound. It allows for us to stay in touch with our deepest values and aspirations as best we are able in the midst of our lives. As we learn to refine and deepen in this process, we become ever more available to dance with life in a harmonious and peaceful manner. May this be a possibility for all beings!

This class warmly welcomes both newcomers who are exploring "Purification of the Motive" teachings for the first time and returning community members who are engaging in this exploration throughout the fall season. The 1 hour 45 minute live meetings in this series will include guided meditations, talks, and community "reports from the field" with responses from the teachers.

Model of Mutual Support
This program is offered in the Buddhist tradition of dāna, which means freely giving. The suggested donation range is $25 – $250. However, you are welcome to offer any amount you wish below or above this range. Finances need not be a barrier to participation. Any offering is gratefully accepted, tax-deductible, and supports both the teachers and Dharma Ground.