Syllabus

Please note that suggested readings are still being identified and will be shared on this website and by email to those who have registered in mid-February. 

Remembering As Awakening:

Seeing Clearly, Living Intentionally

Converging Streams Zen Community (Maha Sangha)

Syllabus

Facilitated by Becky, Jessica, Ryan, Shelley, and Trudy

Feb 20th 2026 – June 20th 2026

Frank and pithy, these five reminders about the reality of impermanence and karma are attributed to the Buddha himself, as taught in the Upajjhatthana Sutta. Though they start with what is plainly “bad news,” contemplating the Five Recollections helps us accept life’s difficulties, motivating us to practice and be kind to ourselves and others.

—Lion's Roar

Schedule & Suggested Readings

All class sessions are on Saturdays at 10 AM-12 PM Central Standard Time.

Dates & Themes

Session 1 — February 21, 2026

The Five Remembrances: Overview

Macro & micro perspectives · Living the questions

Joy · Peace · Love · Flourishing (Eudaimonia)

Session 2 — March 21, 2026

Impermanence

Death · Grief · Loss

Session 3 — April 18, 2026

Change & Transition

Health · Aging · The Lacuna (the space between)

Session 4 — May 23, 2026

Relationship & Responding

Love · Embodiment · Action · Karma

Session 5 — June 20, 2026

Our Life Unfolding

Seasons · Cycles · Savoring

Suggested Readings

Optional poems, essays, and book excerpts will be shared throughout the series for those who wish to deepen their exploration between sessions. This offering is open to all who feel called to slow down, look honestly, and live with greater care and joy in the midst of impermanence. You are welcome just as you are.