Events

  • Fri
    24
    Jul
    2015
    Sat
    25
    Jul
    2015
    Willow Street Yoga, Takoma Park, MD

    Workshop Brochure
    Email Willow Street
    Phone Willow Street: 301-270-8038

  • Fri
    18
    Sep
    2015
    Sun
    20
    Sep
    2015
    Open Sky Yoga Barn, Redding, CT

    Open Sky website
    Email Open Sky
    Phone Open Sky: 203-648-8023

  • Fri
    25
    Sep
    2015
    Sun
    27
    Sep
    2015
    Spirit House Yoga, Oklahoma City, OK

    Email Spirit House
    Phone Spirit House: 405-528-4288

  • Sat
    17
    Oct
    2015
    2:00 pmEvolve Movement Studio, Raleigh, NC

    One of the most profound gifts yoga offers us is the opportunity to re-claim the sacred.  Join Betsey in this full spectrum yoga workshop as we explore ways yoga fosters our connection with the sacred essence inside us as well as in that presence world.  Evolve Movement Studio

  • Sat
    24
    Oct
    2015
    Sat
    31
    Oct
    2015
    Maya Tulum Resort, Tulum, MX

    Retreat Brochure
    Email Suzie
    Phone Suzie: 240-423-3706

  • Thu
    07
    Jan
    2016
    Tue
    31
    Jan
    2017
    6:00pm-7:30pmSfeer Yoga Studio, 200 Britton Dr., Chapel Hill, NC.

    90 minute all levels class.  For more information, see flier.  LAST CLASS will be January 25.

    After that time there will be a (free) get together on the first Wednesday of each month for all who are interested in discussing how we go forward in this new era to protect the values we hold dear.  This is an opportunity to come together with other spiritual seekers to discuss climate, democracy, politics, racial justice, the economy, and everything else (!) through a spiritual lens.

    All are welcome.  Call Betsey for more information or questions: 919.903.9557.

  • Sat
    16
    Jan
    2016
    10:00 amGarden of the Heart Yoga Center, Sarasota, FL

    One-day Retreat at GOH with Cheryl Chaffee & Betsey Downing on Nourishing Yourself & the Planet with Fabulous Food!

  • Sat
    30
    Jan
    2016
    1:00 pmCarrboro Yoga Co, Carrboro, NC

    Yoga offers us a truly amazing gift: connection with The Sacred … something that is sorely needed in today’s world. Join Sommer and Betsey in an exploration of this profound way yoga enhances your daily life, transforms who you think you are, and gives you tools for greater balance, clarity, and skillful participation as we go through this historic planetary shift of consciousness.

    Full spectrum workshop of poses, breathing exercises and meditation, to tap into the place of Your Sacredness inside.  Carrboro Yoga Co.

  • Fri
    05
    Feb
    2016
    Sun
    07
    Feb
    2016
  • Fri
    19
    Feb
    2016
    Sun
    21
    Feb
    2016
    Ancient Yoga Center,151 Lotus Circle • Austin TX 78737

    You are invited to participate in a gathering of former and current certified or inspired Anusara teachers.  Join us for a weekend of sharing asana, lectures, meditation, pranayama, ritual and breaking bread together.

    See Ancient Yoga Center for details.

  • Thu
    31
    Mar
    2016
    6:30pm-8:00pmPittsboro Roadhouse, 39 West St, Pittsboro, NC

    Our Earth is facing a crisis.  Join Climate Reality Leaders, Betsey Downing, Ph.D. and Amanda Robertson, for a presentation on the latest scientific findings and a discussion of what we can do individually and collectively to address this crisis.  FREE!  See flier for more information.

  • Mon
    11
    Apr
    2016
    3:30pm-5:00pmNorth Carolina State University, Williams Hall, Raleigh, NC

    Our Earth is facing a profound crisis.  It is time to come together to see the latest climate science and discuss what we can do individually and collectively to address this crisis.

  • Thu
    14
    Apr
    2016
    10:15am-11:30amCarrboro Yoga Company, 200 N Greensboro St, Carrboro, NC 27510. Phone: 919.933.2921

    Free preview class for Meditation Skills for Daily Life.  See website for more information.

  • Thu
    21
    Apr
    2016
    Thu
    26
    May
    2016
    10:15am-11:30amCarrboro Yoga Company, 200 N Greensboro St, Carrboro, NC 27510. Phone: 919.933.2921

    Meditation can be an indispensable sand calming practice for the unsettled times we're living in.  It is an easily learned skill that can provide a pathway to living with greater peace, grace, and wisdom.  See flier or Carrboro Yoga website for more info.

  • Thu
    28
    Apr
    2016
    Sun
    01
    May
    2016
    Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health, Stockbridge, MA

    Join us for a mini-version of our longer Spirited Women's Retreat!  Go to Kripalu website for complete information or see flier.

  • Sat
    07
    May
    2016
    1:00pm-4:00pmCarrboro Yoga Company, 200 N Greensboro St, Carrboro, NC 27510. Phone: 919.933.2921

    One of the most profound gifts that yoga offers us is reclaiming the Sacred, with which most of humanity seems to have lost touch.  Join Sommer Sobin and Betsey in an exploration of this profound way yoga enhances daily life and helps us awaken to our hearts knowing and inner wisdom of Intuition.  See website for more information.

  • Fri
    13
    May
    2016
    6:30pm-8:00pm6000 Island Boulevard, Aventura, FL 33160

    Join Betsey in a screening of the film Humanity Ascending, a groundbreaking and transformational 40-minute documentary that offers a vision of our possibilities as a new humanity, featuring author and futurist Barbara Marx Hubbard.  See flier for more details.

  • Sat
    14
    May
    2016
    1:00pm-3:30pmYoga1, 613 N. 21st Avenue, Hollywood, FL

    Practice embodying your gifts in standing poses, hand balances, and back bends, taught progressively and safely.  More info here.

  • Sun
    15
    May
    2016
    1:00pm-3:30pmYoga1, 613 N. 21st Avenue, Hollywood, FL

    Quiet class of hip opening poses, breathing exercises, meditation, and a variety of techniques for listening inwardly and touching The Sacred.  More info here.

  • Sat
    04
    Jun
    2016
    1:00pm-4:00pmCarrboro Yoga Company, 200 N Greensboro St, Carrboro, NC 27510. Phone: 919.933.2921

    This workshop focuses on our connection to the divine sacred internally and externally, using our power for the greatest good. Join Michelle Johnson and Betsey as we explore physical shifts and changes in perspective to inspire changes in our world by way of living and loving into our full humanity. See website for more details.

  • Tue
    14
    Jun
    2016
    3:30pm-5:00pmHeld at the Oasis Café, 200 N Greensboro St, Carrboro, NC

    Come join fellow kindred spirits who are concerned about the state of our climate for a discussion that includes a spiritual perspective.

    We’ll discuss the science, as well as the ramifications in our lives and what we can do to prepare and to adapt to the disruption from the growing climate destabilization.

    Held at the Oasis Café, 200 N Greensboro St, Carrboro, NC

    • Tuesday, June 14, 3:30-5:00pm
      • Discuss chapters 6-10, pages 76-142
      • We'll add another day or two to discuss the book if there is enough interest.

    You could also watch Paul Gilding’s Ted Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/paul_gilding_the_earth_is_full?language=en

    Please RSVP to Betsey by noon on Tuesday, June 14 if you plan to attend: betsey@betseydowning.com

    See flier for more information.

  • Fri
    17
    Jun
    2016
    7:00pm-8:30pmHeld at the Oasis Café, 200 N Greensboro St, Carrboro, NC

    This film is a groundbreaking transformational documentary featuring author and futurist Barbara Marx Hubbard. It offers direction, meaning and a vision toward our birth as a new humanity. It presents us with a glimpse of the power of human consciousness when it is harnessed for good, as well as inspires us to look at our history and our potential for conscious evolution.

    40 minute film, followed by discussion.  See flier for more information.

  • Tue
    19
    Jul
    2016
    3:00pm-4:30pmOasis Café, 200 N Greensboro St, Carrboro, NC

    Come join fellow kindred spirits who are concerned about the state of our climate for a discussion that includes a spiritual perspective.

    We’ll discuss the science, as well as the ramifications in our lives and what we can do to prepare and to adapt to the disruption from the growing climate destabilization.

    Held at the Oasis Café, 200 N Greensboro St, Carrboro, NC

    • Tuesday, May 31, 3:30-5:00pm
      • Discuss chapters, 1-5, pages 1-75
    • Tuesday, June 14, 3:30-5:00pm
      • Discuss chapters 6-10, pages 76-142
    • Tuesday, July 5, 3:00-4:30pm
      • Discuss chapters 11-15, pages 143-202
    • Tuesday, July 19, 3:00-4:30pm
      • Discuss chapters 16-20, pages 203-263

    You could also watch Paul Gilding’s Ted Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/paul_gilding_the_earth_is_full?language=en

    See flier for more information.

  • Fri
    29
    Jul
    2016
    7:00 pmOasis Cafe, 200 N. Greensboro St., Carrboro, NC

    The second movie in the Humanity Ascending Series; in Visions, futurist Barbara Marx Hubbard brings together some of the finest minds of our time, presenting us with positive, future scenarios for humanity based on the latest scientific, social and spiritual realities.

    Barbara Marx Hubbard is one of the great elders and visionary pioneers in the fields of conscious evolution and future studies. A colleague of many 20th century pioneers like Abraham Maslow (founder of Humanistic Psychology) and Jonas Salk (creator of the polio vaccine), for decades she co-founded leading-edge organizations like the World Future Society and the Association for Global New Thought; co-produced more than two dozen large conferences to uncover innovative synergies for whole-society evolution; promoted Soviet-American dialogue; wrote a number of books including Conscious Evolution, Emergence, and The Evolutionary Journey; and had her name placed in nomination for US Vice President on the Democratic ticket in 1984.

    Visions film flier, July 2016

  • Sun
    21
    Aug
    2016
    Sun
    28
    Aug
    2016
    Trinity Center, 618 Salter Path Rd, Pine Knoll Shores, NC 28512

    See Brochure-SWR 2016 for complete information.  One double space left as of March 25, 2016.  Call Betsey at 919.903.9557 with questions or to be put on the Waiting List.

  • Thu
    08
    Sep
    2016
    Fri
    02
    Dec
    2016
    10:15am-11:30amCarrboro Yoga Company, 200 N. Greensboro Dr., Suite C-1, Carrboro, NC. Free preview class Sept. 8; regular session begins Sept. 15.

    Meditation can be an indispensable and calming practice for life. It is an easily learned skill that can provide a pathway to living with greater clarity, compassion, wisdom, and peace.

    In essence meditation is learning to be conscious in the present moment. Major skills taught include recognizing our thoughts, mental habits and patterns; consciously choosing where to direct our attention; fully allowing “What Is”; navigating our emotions; embracing total self-acceptance, and connecting with our spiritual essence.

    A variety of techniques are practiced so students can find ones with which they resonate. The classes also include breathing exercises, some philosophy, discussion of the obstacles encountered in meditation, and suggestions for developing a home practice. Meditation is both eminently practical and a portal to the Sacred.

  • Fri
    23
    Sep
    2016
    Sun
    25
    Sep
    2016
    9:00am-5:00pmSpirit House Yoga, Oklahoma City, OK

    Betsey returns for another year of Teacher Training.  See Spirit House website for more information.

  • Sat
    01
    Oct
    2016
    1:00pm-4:00pmCarrboro Yoga Company, 200 N Greensboro St, Carrboro, NC 27510. Phone: 919.933.2921

    Join Michelle Johnson, a social worker, activist, and yogi, and Betsey Downing, a yogi and climate change activist, for a workshop focused on our connection to the divine sacred internally and externally, and how to use our power for the greatest good. Through yoga poses and turning inward, we explore physical shifts and changes in perspectives. Then we invite you to take new insights into the world by way of living and loving into our full humanity ... and that you take with you a deeper connection to self, all beings, and our ecosystem.

    This all-levels yoga workshop includes a dharma talk, meditation, asana, and discussion.See website for more details.

  • Fri
    07
    Oct
    2016
    7:00pm-8:15pmOasis Cafe, 200 N. Greensboro St., Carrboro, NC
    Join Betsey Downing, Ph.D., ERYT500 for an inspirational film, Humanity Ascending, by Barbara Marx Hubbard followed by discussion.

    This film is a groundbreaking transformational documentary featuring author and futurist Barbara Marx Hubbard. It offers direction, meaning and a vision toward our birth as a new humanity. It presents us with a glimpse of the power of human consciousness when it is harnessed for good, as well as inspires us to look at our history and our potential for conscious evolution.

  • Sat
    22
    Oct
    2016
    4:00pm-6:00pmEVOLVE Movement, Cameron Village, 219 Oberlin Rd, Raleigh, NC 919.828.4525
    We are in the midst of a tumultuous shift in consciousness, moving from separation to connection, from competition to cooperation, from over-using our earth’s resources to honoring them. As yogis we have been practicing for years to develop compassion, just for these times. No question it takes heroic courage to stand in the depth and strength of your heart, and offer its wisdom. But your centered Presence and Compassionate Heart are just what is needed at this time.

    Develop these qualities in a full spectrum workshop, including a mini-session on Forearm Balance (Pincha Mayurasana). Betsey will lead you in a progressive sequence of skills toward your appropriate expression of the pose.

    Once you’ve tapped into your courageous heart you can offer it fully off the mat as well!  Evolve Oct 2016-flier.  To register: follow this link.

    Stay after for a community pot luck from 6-7pm and film screening of Humanity Ascending with Barbara Marx Hubbard from 7-8:15pm.  See link for more information on the film.

  • Sat
    22
    Oct
    2016
    7:00pm-8:15pmEVOLVE Movement, Cameron Village, 219 Oberlin Rd, Raleigh, NC 919.828.4525
    Join Betsey Downing, Ph.D., ERYT500 for an inspirational film, Humanity Ascending, by Barbara Marx Hubbard followed by discussion.

    This film is a groundbreaking transformational documentary featuring author and futurist Barbara Marx Hubbard. It offers direction, meaning and a vision toward our birth as a new humanity. It presents us with a glimpse of the power of human consciousness when it is harnessed for good, as well as inspires us to look at our history and our potential for conscious evolution.

    Come early for a yoga practice with Betsey from 4-6pm (register online) and community potluck from 6-7pm.

    This screening is FREE and open to the public. Reserve your space online.

  • Sun
    19
    Feb
    2017
    7:00pm-9:00pmCarrboro Yoga Company, 200 N. Greensboro St, Carrboro, NC

    Come together with other concerned  citizens to discuss current climate realities, to discover ways to respond that help give birth to the world we want to create, and to empower ourselves to meet those realities with wisdom and resilience.  We’re offering a pause during the whirlwind of this tumultuous time ... to reflect on where we are, and ask how we can respond effectively, from a place of awareness and compassion.   

    This is a time to come together with kindred spirits to contemplate the highest in ourselves that wants to be expressed. 

    Hope to see you there.  Space is limited.  Please RSVP to reserve your space.  See flier for more information.  

  • Sun
    05
    Mar
    2017
    6:00pm-7:30pmOasis Cafe, Carr Mill Mall, 200 N. Greensboro St, Carrboro, NC

    Take time to come together with other concerned citizens who know our climate is in trouble.  Watch a short video on climate and discuss what our options are to address it.

    “We are the first generation to feel the effects of climate change. And we are the last generation who can do anything about it"

    JOIN US!

    Free.  Open to all.  For more information, see flier.

  • Sun
    19
    Mar
    2017
    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Cafe, Carr Mill Mall, 200 N. Greensboro St, Carrboro, NC

    Come together with other people concerned with the state of our climate.  We'll show a short film on climate and then discuss collective and individual actions to address it.

    Free.  Open to all.  See flier for more information.

  • Fri
    24
    Mar
    2017
    Sun
    26
    Mar
    2017
    Expressions of Grace, 5270 Northland Dr. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 Ph: 616.361.8580

    The path of Yoga is the path of transformation. Today’s world is one of unprecedented and tumultuous change; it calls out for transformation of our consciousness to recognize our One Humanity. The gift of Yoga is guidance for navigating this time. Anchoring ourselves in the ancient spiritual teachings of the Bhagavad Gita we will explore how to “rise to play a greater part,” and live a life of passion, grace, wisdom, and significance.

    For more information or to register, click here.

  • Sun
    09
    Apr
    2017
    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Cafe, Carr Mill Mall, 200 N. Greensboro St, Carrboro, NC

    On April 9, we'll show an incredibly revealing film: Merchants of Doubt.  The film describes the climate denier industry and how it was systematically developed based on the tobacco industry, which for decades successfully denied the science behind the use of tobacco products by instilling doubt about the science.  FREE!  See flier for more information.

  • Sun
    23
    Apr
    2017
    2:00pm-4:00pmEvolve Movement Yoga Studio 219 Oberlin Rd, Raleigh, NC 27605

    Meditation can be an indispensable and calming practice for life. It is an easily learned skill that has huge benefits in staying open, clear, compassionate, and grounded …  all good qualities to have!

    In essence meditation is bringing awareness to the present moment. Major skills taught include recognizing our thoughts, mental habits and patterns; fully allowing “what is”; consciously choosing where to direct our attention; navigating our emotions; embracing total self-acceptance, and connecting with our spiritual essence.

    Several techniques are taught and practiced, as well as breathing exercises that calm the nervous system. Meditation is both eminently practical and a portal to the Sacred.

    Open to all. No experience necessary. Click here for more information or to register.

    “Betsey teaches from a deep well of wisdom and practical knowledge…”

    Student quote

  • Sun
    30
    Apr
    2017
    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Cafe, Carr Mill Mall, 200 N. Greensboro St, Carrboro, NC

    Join us for an inspiring film by John D. Liu on reforestation and sustainable farming that sequesters carbon in the soil.  Uplifting!  Hopeful and practical!  See flier for more information.

     

  • Sat
    13
    May
    2017
    2:00pm-2:45pmTHE PLANT – 220 Lorax Lane, Pittsboro, NC

    This presentation looks at our changing climate from the broadest, most expansive perspective, to acknowledge the meaning and significance of what we’re going through. We are at an unprecedented crossroads in history: shifting from a paradigm of domination and control to one of partnership and collaboration.  We are moving from an emphasis on the Individual and one’s personal power to recognizing our Shared Humanity, and the value and necessity of working together.  We are in an unparalleled shift from the Love of Power to the Power of Love.  See link below for more information.

    This presentation is part of the ABUNDANCE NC 2017 Climate Carnival, May 12-13. Click here for more information or to register.

    Friday, May 12, 7:00-8:30pm is a panel discussion with five outstanding professionals who represent a holistic view of the current climate change situation. From climate justice to the hard science.  From the economics of denial to the weird weather.  We’ll delve into the topics you’re craving to learn and ask the questions you’re yearning to ask!  The panel will be moderated by WUNC’s State of Things Host, Frank Stasio.

    Saturday, May 13 Carnival, 12:00-8:00pm includes hands-on activities, short films, education tables, local organization booths, artists and vendors boasting eco-friendly products or services, live music, artistic performances, food vendors, and several speaker sessions throughout the day.

  • Thu
    18
    May
    2017
    Sun
    21
    May
    2017
    Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health, Stockbridge, MA

    Join Suzie & I for a mini Spirited Women's Retreat at Kripalu in the beautiful Berkshires. What a great opportunity to re-charge your batteries while spending time in the inspiring company and support of kindred spirits.

    See flier to register or for more information.

  • Sun
    11
    Jun
    2017
    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    This 12-minute clip by 350.org founder Bill McKibben, on the state of our climate, followed by an 8 min clip of solutions, offers a succinct, candid overview of where we stand on climate change.

    Join us for an important discussion on what we do now that Trump has pulled the US out of the Paris Agreement.  See flier.

  • Sun
    25
    Jun
    2017
    7:30pm-9:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall, 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor, Carrboro, NC

    Our world is warming at an unprecedented rate!

    Naturalist and television personality David Attenborough takes us on a journey to discover how global warming is changing the planet, and explains why this is far beyond any normal allowance for cyclical fluctuation.

    He investigates solutions being employed around the world, and shares his perspective that although some changes are already in motion no matter what we do, we may be able to act to prevent a catastrophe.

    Join us for a discussion of possible solutions to our climate crisis.

    See flier for complete details.

  • Sun
    06
    Aug
    2017
    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall, 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor, Carrboro, NC

    Click here for flier.

    Climate Video & Discussion Night

    How Do We Respond to Climate Change Given the Seriousness and Urgency of the Situation?

    Our world continues to warm at an unprecedented rate.

    A recent study shows that the world must set greenhouse gas emissions on a downward path by 2020, or we risk not being able to contain climate change within safe limits of 1.5-2.0 degrees C, according to the Paris agreement.

    Given the seriousness and urgency of our situation, discussion focuses on our possible responses, both collectively & individually, both to resist & to build the new.

    Join us for 20 minutes of video followed by discussion ~ Free & Open to all!  Please share with friends & family!

    Presented by Citizens Climate Collaborative: Betsey Downing, Marty Adams, Tana Hartman Thorn, Vic Rhodes & Dirk Kelder

  • Mon
    07
    Aug
    2017
    Mon
    14
    Aug
    2017
    Meadowkirk Retreat, Middleburg, VA

    Unfortunately this retreat has been cancelled.  We will hold our Spirited Women's Retreat again in the fall of 2018.  Hope you can join us then!

  • Sun
    27
    Aug
    2017
    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall, 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor, Carrboro, NC

    We will be showing the following climate documentary on Sunday, August 27:

    Time to Choose is an eloquent documentary filmed on five continents.  It highlights both the exquisite beauty of our planet and the environmental effects of de-forestation and our fossil fuel use, which lead to increasing global temperatures.  It emphasizes the possibilities of solar and wind, and how rapid improvements in clean energy may hold out hope for the future…

    Join us for the video followed by discussion ~ Free!  Open to all.

    Click here for full details on our CLIMATE VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT for August 27.

  • Sun
    17
    Sep
    2017
    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall, 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor, Carrboro, NC

    Click here for flier with full details.

    "If we don't change our direction,
    we are likely to end up where we are headed".
    Chinese Proverb

    Despite what some say, THIS IS THE BEST TIME to talk about climate change.
    We know that increased warming intensifies storms of all kinds.
    Join us for a discussion of the significance of recent extreme weather events.

  • Sat
    23
    Sep
    2017
    Sun
    24
    Sep
    2017
    9:00am-5:00pmSpirit House Yoga, Oklahoma City, OK
    The art of progressive sequencing is one of the most empowering skills you can bring to your practice and/or your teaching. It can take you and your students to places you previously thought impossible! When we play the edge of what is possible in this way, our yoga becomes even more transformative!
    When you teach yoga, or you practice new and challenging poses, you are already doing pose analysis that is the basic art of progressive sequencing. My intention is to help you organize and refine this process, and to make it a conscious discipline.
    See Spirit House to register or for more details.
  • Sun
    01
    Oct
    2017
    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall, 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor, Carrboro, NC

    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS.
    We are the first generation to feel the effect of climate change

    and the last generation who can do something about it". 
    Barack Obama

    This documentary, HOME, directed by world famous French photographer,
    Yann Arthus–Bertrand, shows aerial shots from over 50 countries.
    It highlights the exquisite beauty of our Home, the Earth,
    and also clearly illustrates the extent to which our precious Earth has been
    enormously damaged by humanity’s actions.

    Join us for the 90-minute film followed by discussion.

    ~ Free!  Open to all! ~

  • Sun
    15
    Oct
    2017

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall, 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor, Carrboro, NC

    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS. 

    CLIMATE VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT

    LOVE THY NATURE
    "Love Thy Nature is an urgent but stunningly beautiful meditation on our
    connections to the natural world ...
    everyone should see this profound, timely, and extraordinary film."

    "The film shows that a renewed connection with nature is key
    both to our health and the health of our planet."

    Free!  Open to all! ~

    Also see Oasis Café.

    Presented by Citizens Climate Collaborative: Betsey Downing, Marty Adams,
    Tana Hartman Thorn, Vic Rhodes, and Dirk Kelder

  • Sun
    05
    Nov
    2017

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall, 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor, Carrboro, NC

    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS, including links.

    CLIMATE VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT

    BEYOND THE ANTHROPOCENE with Johan Rockstrom
    In just five decades, we have transitioned from being
    a small world on a big planet to a big world on a small planet.
    We have moved into the Anthropocene, the period during which human activity
    has been the dominant influence on climate and the environment.

    Johan Rockström, Executive Director of the Stockholm Resilience Centre,
    explains why we should be concerned about this and
    how we can embrace the opportunities
    in our necessary transformation towards global sustainability.

    Join us for a short presentation on the exponential function, so crucial to
    understanding climate science, and this 20-minute film. Followed by discussion.

    ~ Free! Open to all! ~

  • Sun
    19
    Nov
    2017

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall, 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor, Carrboro, NC

    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS, including links.

    CLIMATE VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT


    RENEWABLES COME TO NC with NC 2025 Clean Path

    Presented by Amanda Robertson, local climate activist and educator

    NC WARN has rolled out a 100+ page plan written by energy engineer Bill Powers,
    that outlines a path for North Carolina to pursue 100% renewable energy.

    The plan has a place for all of us to get involved
    and to have a role in creating our own clean energy future.
    Amanda will give an overview of the plan, answer questions, and share how everyone
    can get involved in their communities.  Learn more about the plan
    at: NC Warn Clean Plan

    Join us for a 30-minute presentation followed by Q & A and discussion.
    ~ Free! Open to all! ~

    Also see Oasis Café.

    Presented by Citizens Climate Collaborative: Betsey Downing, Marty Adams,
    Tana Hartman Thorn, Vic Rhodes, and Dirk Kelder

  • Sun
    03
    Dec
    2017

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall, 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor, Carrboro, NC

    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS, including links.
    OUR RENEWABLE FUTURE

    Featuring energy expert, Richard Heinberg

    This video, based on the book of the same name,
    by Richard Heinberg and scientist David Fridley, both Fellows at the Post Carbon Institute, explores the challenges and opportunities presented by the shift to renewable energy.
    The next few decades will see a profound energy transformation throughout the world.

    Driven by the need to avert catastrophic climate change
    and by the depletion of easily accessible oil, coal, and natural gas,
    this transformation will entail a major shift in how we live.

    What might a 100% renewable future look like?

    Join us for this intriguing 55-minute video, followed by discussion.

    ~ Free! Open to all! ~

    Link to the video, Our Renewable Future
    Link to the Post Carbon Institute

    Also see Oasis Café.

    Presented by Citizens Climate Collaborative: Betsey Downing, Marty Adams,
    Tana Hartman Thorn, Vic Rhodes, and Dirk Kelder

  • Sun
    17
    Dec
    2017

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall, 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor, Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT

    Our climate is changing.
    It is happening now.
    Humans are the primary cause.
    This affects all of us.

    We have a finite amount of time to address it.

    Join us for one of the most important conversations of our time.
    We'll show a different video at each session, followed by discussion.
    You'll meet "kindred spirits" with whom to explore possibilities
    for addressing our looming climate crisis.

    Join in this important discussion!
    Bring your comments, questions and concerns.

    Details of the specific topic will be posted here a week before
    the event is held. Also see Oasis Café.

    Presented by Citizens Climate Collaborative: Betsey Downing, Marty Adams,
    Tana Hartman Thorn, Vic Rhodes, and Dirk Kelder

  • Sun
    14
    Jan
    2018

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS, including links.

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG SLOW EMERGENCY
    CLIMATE VIDEO & DISCUSSION: WE THE PEOPLE 2.0
    Stories about people successfully protecting their communities from fossil fuel companies!

    This excellent film is a visual essay about the loss of democracy in the United States,
    and how people are taking it back.

    American citizens have been marginalized, forgotten and left to fend for
    themselves against large corporations who for decades have engaged in toxic
    dumping, mining, drilling, and now fracking in their communities.

    Join us for an uplifting and inspiring 1 hour, 20 minute film,
    followed by discussion. ~ Free! Open to all! ~

    Sunday, January 14, 2018, 6:30-8:30pm

    Oasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    Link to the video (trailer): https://celdf.org/we-the-people-2/

    Presented by a group of concerned and dedicated citizens:
    Betsey Downing, Marty Adams, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Vic Rhodes, Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    28
    Jan
    2018

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG SLOW EMERGENCY
    4th Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm
    PRACTICES & ACTIONS TO CREATE RESILIENCE

    In these sessions we focus on Creating Resilience,
    individually and in our communities.
    The first 30 minutes includes practices such as meditation, deep breathing, and guided imagery to calm and center ourselves,
    so we can function at our best.
    Following that we discuss actions to prepare for the coming changes
    to create greater resilience in our communities as well as in our individual lives.

    No experience necessary. Free! Open to all!
    Presented by a group of concerned and dedicated citizens:
    Betsey Downing, Marty Adams, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Vic Rhodes, Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

     

  • Sun
    11
    Feb
    2018

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG SLOW EMERGENCY
    2nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:30pm
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT

    We are not just experiencing a climate emergency marked by increasingly extreme and expensive weather events;
    we are in the beginnings of a necessary civilization re-boot.

    Our perspective is that the core ecological problem is not climate change,
    but rather it is overshoot, of which our climate destabilization is a symptom.
    We have overshot the ability, i.e.,“carrying capacity”, of the earth to
    support the population by using up resources faster than they can be replenished.
    In the process we’ve put an amount of CO2 into the atmosphere
    that has destabilized our climate.

    “There can be no greater crime against humanity
    than the destruction of conditions that make human life possible…”
    Lawrence Torcello

    We are in an unprecedented time of risk, uncertainty, and opportunity …  and with some urgency we are called to greater participation to serve our Emerging Future.

    Join us for this important discussion of how we move forward to create
    an Earth Community of justice, sustainability and peace!
    Bring your comments, questions and ideas.

    Free! Open to all!

    Presented by a group of concerned and dedicated citizens:
    Betsey Downing, Marty Adams, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    25
    Feb
    2018

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG SLOW EMERGENCY
    4th Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm
    PRACTICES & ACTIONS TO CREATE RESILIENCE
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS, including links.

    In these sessions we focus on creating resilience,
    individually and in our communities.
    For the first 30 minutes we’ll do deep breathing, meditation,
    and/or guided imagery, practicing tools to calm and center ourselves
    so we can function at our best.

    In the February 25 session, after centering, we focus on what we can do
    to lower our ecological impact.
    We’ll determine the number of earths needed to support our individual lifestyle
    using the Ecological Footprint Calculator, a quick 5-6 minute quiz.
    The calculator can be accessed from your cell phone
    or if you prefer you can take the quiz in advance. See the link below.

    Join us for an informative session followed by discussion.
    No experience necessary. Free! Open to all!

    Sunday, February 25, 2018, 6:30-8:00pm
    Oasis Café in Carr Mill Mall
    200 N. Greensboro St, first floor
    Carrboro, NC

    If you are unable to join us, you can use the Ecological Footprint Calculator to discover your impact:
    Link to the quiz: http://www.footprintcalculator.org/

    Presented by a group of concerned and dedicated citizens:
    Betsey Downing, Marty Adams, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    11
    Mar
    2018

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG SLOW EMERGENCY
    2nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:30pm
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT: FINAL WARNING Limits to Growth

    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS

    Limits to Growth is a report, commissioned by the Club of Rome, published in 1972.
    Using cutting edge computer analysis, a team of MIT researchers tracked
    industrialization, population, food, use of resources, and pollution
    They developed a range of scenarios for our future, depending on what choices humanity made to address these issues.

    Final Warning Limits to Growth sheds light on the story behind the original report
    and how these concerns have been addressed over the past four decades.

    Join us for two intriguing documentaries (52 minutes total) followed by discussion.

    ~ Free! Open to all! ~

    Sunday, March 11, 2018, 6:30-8:30pm

    Oasis Café in Carr Mill Mall
    200 N. Greensboro St, first floor
    Carrboro, NC

    Presented by a group of concerned and dedicated citizens:
    Betsey Downing, Marty Adams, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Fri
    16
    Mar
    2018

    6:30pm-8:30pmRecyclique, 2811 Hillsborough Rd. Durham, NC

    THE ZEN OF CLIMATE ACTIVISM
    with Betsey Downing, Ph.D.
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER

    Join us for an experiential workshop led by Betsey Downing, who leads a double life as a yoga instructor and climate educator.

    “We’re not just facing a climate emergency – we’re facing a civilization reboot,” Betsey observes. How do we transcend the individualism of our age?

    In this session we’ll focus on perspectives and techniques to enhance our resilience to push for change while facing an uncertain future -- including meditation, deep breathing, gentle movement and guided imagery to calm and center ourselves emotionally and physically.

    Betsey has taught yoga for 40 years, and is active with 350.org and NC Clean Path 2025.

    Suggested donations of $5 (no one turned away). Light refreshments served.

  • Sun
    25
    Mar
    2018

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG SLOW EMERGENCY
    PRACTICES & ACTIONS TO CREATE RESILIENCE
    4th Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm

    OUR LOCAL FOOD SYSTEM
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER

    In our March 25 session we focus on a major aspect of our resilience,
    both personally and collectively: a healthy, sustainable, and accessible food system.

    We have 2 short presentations on this topic:
    Ashley Heger will speak about the work of the Orange County Food Council whose goal is to grow a local food system that ensures health, sustainable agriculture, and access for all.

    Grace Baucom is a high school senior in Orange County who has worked with the Climate Leadership and Energy Awareness Program at UNC.  Her 10-minute documentary explores how extreme heat, one of the many byproducts of climate change,
    affects sustainable farmers in the NC Piedmont.

    Join us for an informative session followed by discussion ~ Free! Open to all! ~

    No experience necessary. Free! Open to all!
    Presented by a group of concerned and dedicated citizens:
    Betsey Downing, Marty Adams, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    08
    Apr
    2018

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG SLOW EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT: PLASTIC ~ THE NEW SEA MONSTER!
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS

    Eight million tons of plastic wind up in the world's oceans every year!
    Unlike other trash, plastic can stay in the water forever because it does not biodegrade.
    Find out how it gets there and how it’s affecting the world's oceans and humans.
    We’ll look at efforts already underway to rid our oceans of plastic pollution.
    and what we can do to participate in the solutions.

    Join us for an hour video presentation, followed by discussion.

    ~ Free! Open to all! ~

    If you are unable to join us in person, consider inviting a few friends over and watching together!

    Links to videos:
    Story of 3 Plastic Bottles (4 min) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6xlNyWPpB8
    Plastic: The New Sea Monster (52 min) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHeRxHxhvUY&feature=youtu.be
    The Ocean Cleanup with Boyan Slat (7 min) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VxMATP5oRx4

    Presented by a group of concerned and dedicated citizens:
    Betsey Downing, Marty Adams, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

  • Sun
    15
    Apr
    2018
    Wed
    18
    Apr
    2018

    9:00am-5pmKripalu Center for Yoga & Health, Stockbridge, MA

    THE DIVINE FEMININE ARISES: CULTIVATING COURAGE AND COMPASSION
    Join Suzie and Betsey for a mini-version of their longer Spirited Women's Retreat!

    For women over 45 with a minimum of six months of yoga experience.

    Yoga can be a doorway to access a whole new way of being
    as you move into a powerful time of life.
    Filled with vitality and significance, tap into your courage and compassion
    and step into your full spiritual presence.
    Come together with other spirited women to explore the issues of our time
    through a spiritual lens.

    Suzie and Betsey teach yoga with refined alignment cues, guiding you into poses
    safely and effectively. Embrace your transformation and have fun!

    See link for more information.

  • Sun
    22
    Apr
    2018

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG SLOW EMERGENCY
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH FULL DETAILS
    4th Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm
    PRACTICES & ACTIONS TO CREATE RESILIENCE

    Earth Day was first celebrated on April 22, 1970 bringing public awareness
    to the world’s environmental problems. Across the U.S. twenty million people showed up!
    Only months later Congress enacted legislation creating the
    Environmental Protection Agency
    and the environmental movement was launched!

    For Earth Day we’ll honor Mother Earth
    as well as do practices to build personal resilience
    and discuss what’s needed for greater earth resilience,
    including our discussion on how to reduce plastic consumption.

    Join us ~ Free! Open to all! ~ No experience necessary.

    For more information on Earth Day, see here.

    Presented by a group of concerned and dedicated citizens:
    Betsey Downing, Marty Adams, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    13
    May
    2018

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG SLOW EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT
    FRACKING: WHY ARE SO MANY PEOPLE UP IN ARMS ABOUT IT?
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS, including links for video.

    Join us for a 90-min revealing and riveting documentary on fracking, Gasland II.
    Followed by discussion.
    ~ Free! Open to all! ~

    Presented by a group of concerned and dedicated citizens:
    Betsey Downing, Marty Adams, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    27
    May
    2018

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG SLOW EMERGENCY

    There will be no Climate Meeting on Sunday, May 27, due to the Memorial Day weekend.  Have an enjoyable weekend.
    Our next meeting will be Sunday, June 10, 6:30-8:30pm at Oasis.

  • Sun
    10
    Jun
    2018

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG SLOW EMERGENCY
    RACHEL CARSON: Author of best-selling book, SILENT SPRING

    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS

    We are not just experiencing a climate emergency marked by increasingly extreme and expensive weather events;
    we are in the beginnings of a necessary civilization re-boot.

    Our perspective is that the core ecological problem is not climate change,
    but rather it is overshoot, of which our climate destabilization is a symptom.
    We have overshot the ability, i.e.,“carrying capacity”, of the earth to
    support the population by using up resources faster than they can be replenished.
    In the process we’ve put an amount of CO2 into the atmosphere
    that has destabilized our climate.

    “There can be no greater crime against humanity
    than the destruction of conditions that make human life possible…” 
    Lawrence Torcello

    We are in an unprecedented time of risk, uncertainty, and opportunity …  and with some urgency we are called
    to greater participation to serve our Emerging Future.

    Join us for this important discussion of how we move forward to create
    an Earth Community of justice, sustainability and peace!
    Bring your comments, questions and ideas.

    Free! Open to all!

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Marty Adams, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    24
    Jun
    2018

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG SLOW EMERGENCY
    4th Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm
    PRACTICES & ACTIONS TO CREATE RESILIENCE

    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS

    In these sessions we focus on Creating Resilience,
    individually and in our communities.
    The sessions include practices such as meditation, deep breathing, gentle
    movement and/or guided imagery to calm and center ourselves,
    so we can function at our best.
    We also discuss actions to prepare for the coming changes
    to create greater resilience in our communities as well as in our individual lives.

    No experience necessary. Free! Open to all!
    Presented by a group of concerned and dedicated citizens:
    Betsey Downing, Marty Adams, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    08
    Jul
    2018

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS, including links.
    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG SLOW EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT:
    CRISIS OF CIVILIZATION: A DOCUMENTARY ABOUT GLOBAL CRISES

    The various crises we face today, from climate change to the economy, are not separate, distinct crises, but rather facets of a wider crisis of industrial civilization in its current form, linked to our dependence on fossil fuels. Whether we regard that reality
    optimistically or pessimistically, this century signals the end of the age of fossil fuels.

    However, the film points out that we are not all doomed!

    In fact, far from it.  While the film shows that business-as-usual is not sustainable,
    it points out that we are already in the midst of a global process
    of transition that offers unprecedented opportunities to re-envision new forms of prosperity
    that can function in harmony with our environment, rather than in conflict with it.

    Join us for a powerful and enlightening documentary.  Followed by discussion.

    We are in an unprecedented time of risk, uncertainty, and opportunity …  and with some urgency we are called
    to greater participation to serve our Emerging Future.

    Join us for this important discussion of how we move forward to create
    an Earth Community of justice, sustainability and peace!
    Bring your comments, questions ideas, and friends!

    Free! Open to all!

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    22
    Jul
    2018

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG SLOW EMERGENCY
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH FULL DETAILS
    4th Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm
    PRACTICES & ACTIONS TO CREATE RESILIENCE:
    GREAT TRANSITION STORIES

    “This is a unique moment in human evolution:
    After tens of thousands of years of stories that we are separate,
    we are finally beginning to develop stories of “all of us.”
    With the old stories breaking down, and new stories not yet in place, the world is uniquely
    open to discovering “Great Transition Stories” that can guide humanity
    through our time of profound transition to a sustainable and thriving future.”
    Great Transition Stories website ~ http://greattransitionstories.org

    Our program includes a 15-minute film of Duane Elgin on Great Transition Stories.
    Followed by discussion and practices & info for personal and community resilience.

    No experience necessary. Free! Open to all!
    Presented by Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    05
    Aug
    2018

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG SLOW EMERGENCY
    CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE DETAILS, including link
    LIVING THE CHANGE: Inspiring Stories for a Sustainable Future

    As the Living the Change website states, sometimes it can feel like the environmental,
    economic and social issues the world is currently facing are too big,
    too overwhelming, to be dealt with by individuals.
    Climate change, resource limits, economic downturn, social disconnection.
    Surely these issues can only be properly managed by our governments?
    LIVING THE CHANGE explores solutions to the global crises we face today
    - solutions any one of us can be part of -
    through inspiring stories of people pioneering change in their own lives
    and in their communities in order to live in a sustainable and regenerative way.

    Join us for an informative and inspiring documentary. Followed by discussion.
    ~ Free! Open to all! ~

    If you are unable to join us in person,
    consider inviting a few friends over and watching together!
    Link for the trailer: https://livingthechangefilm.com

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

  • Sun
    19
    Aug
    2018

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    PRACTICES & ACTIONS TO CREATE RESILIENCE
    LESSONS FROM A NEAR DEATH EXPERIENCE
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS, including link for video

    Anita Moorjani was in the final stages of terminal cancer when she had
    an extraordinary “near death experience” that changed her life.
    She left her body and floated up above her family,
    seeing them grieving at her bedside, and her doctors discussing her condition.

    She experienced an expanded sense of self: seeing that she was part
    of the Consciousness that underlies reality.

    We’ll explore the relevance of this understanding in helping us shift to identify
    our One Humanity as we confront our escalating challenges.

    Followed by discussion and practices for personal resilience, including breathing
    exercises, meditation, and a discussion on how we can develop
    our inner guidance and intuition.

    Free! Open to all!  No experience necessary.

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

  • Tue
    21
    Aug
    2018
    Sun
    26
    Aug
    2018

    9:00am-5:00pmTrinity Center on Emerald Isle, Pine Knoll Shores, NC

    THE DIVINE FEMININE ARISES: We Were Made For These Times
    Click here for full brochure.

    We live in unprecedented and tumultuous times!
    We are in the midst of an historic shift in consciousness, from the love of power
    to the power of love. From the hierarchical model of competition and control
    to the collaborative model of connection and community.
    The old is dying and the new is being birthed.

    We have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to embrace a planetary transformation!
    In this retreat we will explore yogic teachings to bring forth
    the best within ourselves and help create a New Earth Community
    that honors diversity, justice, and sustainability.

    The World is crying out for spiritually and emotionally mature women (and men)
    to stand up and speak up from their full Presence as the embodied
    Divine Feminine and fight for the heart of what matters.

    Join Suzie & Betsey for an inspiring and empowering 5-day retreat
    incorporating yoga poses, meditation and pranayama (breathing exercises)
    to align yourself with your Highest Good
    to serve our Emerging Future.

  • Sun
    09
    Sep
    2018

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT ~ 2nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:30pm
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS, including link for video

    PAUL GILDING: “The Earth Is Full”
    Environmental activist Paul Gilding is a writer, sustainability advisor, entrepreneur,
    and former CEO of Greenpeace

    Despite 50 years of warnings about global warming, humankind has yet to grasp
    the urgency for change. Meanwhile, Earth’s population is continuine
    to live beyond its means. Environmental activist Paul Gilding
    paints a picture of the not-so-distant future that will befall each nation
    unless society can mobilize a rapid response. 

    Gilding’s focus is to motivate and inspire people to act on the urgent challenges
    of climate and sustainability.

    Join us for this inspiring Ted Talk. Followed by discussion on how we can act at the community level to meet the coming challenges.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    Bring your comments, questions, ideas, and friends!
    Free! Open to all!

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

     

  • Sun
    23
    Sep
    2018

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS, including link

    “Global warming is unequivocal and ongoing.
    Impacts are not subtle and they are felt around the world.
    Stopping global warming well below 2 degrees C is a race against time.
    It is still feasible.”

    Obviously what we are doing, known as business as usual, is unsustainable.
    Instead of getting overwhelmed, we can join the thousands of groups
    around the world working to create a life-affirming culture.

    This session focuses on obstacles, including our often-unacknowledged grief
    about our earth, to bring out the best within ourselves.
    Meditation and other personal resilience practices will be discussed and practiced.

    No experience necessary. Free! Open to all!
    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    14
    Oct
    2018

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT ~ 2nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:30pm

    We are at a crossroads in our history.
    We are on the precipice of destroying our habitat, the very earth
    that gives us sustenance and supports life. Our multiple challenges of climate change,
    deforestation, overgrazing, fisheries collapse, food insecurity,
    and the rapid extinction of species are all part of a single, over-arching problem:
    Humanity has overshot the carrying capacity of the Earth.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    We show a different video each session
    and discuss a range of important issues and options to address them.

    For detailed information on each session,
    see https://www.betseydowning.com/upcoming-events/.
    Information will be posted 5-6 days prior to the event.

    Bring your comments, questions, ideas, and friends!
    Free! Open to all!

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

     

  • Sun
    28
    Oct
    2018

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    4th Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm
    PRACTICES & ACTIONS TO CREATE RESILIENCE

    In these sessions we focus on creating resilience, both individually and in community.
    It includes personal practices such as deep breathing and meditation
    to calm and center ourselves,
    as well as techniques of personal growth work.
    In addition we focus on actions we can take in our communities
    to adapt to the coming changes brought on by climate destabilization.

    No experience necessary. Free! Open to all!
    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    11
    Nov
    2018

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT ~ 2nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:30pm

    We are at a crossroads in our history.
    We are on the precipice of destroying our habitat, the very earth
    that gives us sustenance and supports life. Our multiple challenges of climate change,
    deforestation, overgrazing, fisheries collapse, food insecurity,
    and the rapid extinction of species are all part of a single, over-arching problem:
    Humanity has overshot the carrying capacity of the Earth.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    We show a different video each session
    and discuss a range of important issues and options to address them.

    For detailed information on each session,
    see https://www.betseydowning.com/upcoming-events/.
    Information will be posted 5-6 days prior to the event.

    Bring your comments, questions, ideas, and friends!
    Free! Open to all!

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

  • Sun
    25
    Nov
    2018

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    WHAT IS THE TRUTH ABOUT THE NEW IPCC REPORT AND OUR BEST RESPONSE?
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS

    We are at a crossroads in our history.
    We are on the precipice of destroying our habitat, the very earth
    that gives us sustenance and supports life. Our multiple challenges of climate change,
    deforestation, overgrazing, fisheries collapse, food insecurity,
    and the rapid extinction of species are all part of a single, over-arching problem:
    Humanity has overshot the carrying capacity of the Earth.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    We show a different video each session
    and discuss a range of important issues and options to address them.

  • Sun
    09
    Dec
    2018

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT ~ 2nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:30pm
    THIS EVENT IS CANCELLED DUE TO WINTER STORM WARNINGS FOR OUR AREA
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS

    We are at a crossroads in our history.
    We are on the precipice of destroying our habitat, the very earth
    that gives us sustenance and supports life. Our multiple challenges of climate change,
    deforestation, overgrazing, fisheries collapse, food insecurity,
    and the rapid extinction of species are all part of a single, over-arching problem:
    Humanity has overshot the carrying capacity of the Earth.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    We show a different video each session
    and discuss a range of important issues and options to address them.

    For detailed information on each session,
    see https://www.betseydowning.com/upcoming-events/.
    Information will be posted 5-6 days prior to the event.

    Bring your comments, questions, ideas, and friends!
    Free! Open to all!

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

  • Sun
    13
    Jan
    2019

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT ~ 2nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:30pm
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS, including links

    We are at a crossroads in our history.
    We are on the precipice of destroying our habitat, the very earth
    that gives us sustenance and supports life. Our multiple challenges of climate change,
    deforestation, overgrazing, fisheries collapse, food insecurity,
    and the rapid extinction of species are all part of a single, over-arching problem:
    Humanity has overshot the carrying capacity of the Earth.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    We show a different video each session
    and discuss a range of important issues and options to address them.

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

  • Sun
    27
    Jan
    2019

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    PRACTICES & ACTIONS TO CREATE RESILIENCE 4th Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm
    TOPIC: CELEBRATING TWO UNIQUE CLIMATE LEADERS!
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH FULL DETAILS, including links to videos

    In these sessions we focus on creating resilience, both individually and in community.
    It includes personal practices such as deep breathing and meditation,
    to quiet the mind, create clarity, and a state of inner calm,
    as well as sharing useful coping strategies.
    In addition we focus on actions we can take in our communities
    to adapt to the coming changes brought on by climate destabilization.

    No experience necessary. Free! Open to all!
    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    10
    Feb
    2019

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT ~ 2nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:30pm
    TOPIC: LIFE ON A SHRINKING PLANET
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS, including link to video

    We are at a crossroads in our history.
    We are on the precipice of destroying our habitat, the very earth
    that gives us sustenance and supports life. Our multiple challenges of climate change,
    deforestation, overgrazing, fisheries collapse, food insecurity,
    and the rapid extinction of species are all part of a single, over-arching problem:
    Humanity has overshot the carrying capacity of the Earth.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    We show a different video each session
    and discuss a range of important issues and options to address them.

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

  • Sun
    24
    Feb
    2019

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    PRACTICES & ACTIONS TO CREATE RESILIENCE 4th Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm
    TOPIC: MENTAL TRAINING: increasing awareness, attention, and concentration
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS, including links to videos

    In these sessions we focus on creating resilience, both individually and in community.
    It includes personal practices such as deep breathing and meditation,
    to quiet the mind, create clarity, and a state of inner calm,
    as well as sharing useful coping strategies.
    In addition we focus on actions we can take in our communities
    to adapt to the coming changes brought on by climate destabilization.

    No experience necessary. Free! Open to all!
    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    10
    Mar
    2019

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT ~ 2nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:30pm
    TOPIC: GROWTHBUSTERS: Hooked on Growth
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS, including link to video

    We are at a crossroads in our history.
    We are on the precipice of destroying our habitat, the very earth
    that gives us sustenance and supports life. Our multiple challenges of climate change,
    deforestation, overgrazing, fisheries collapse, food insecurity,
    and the rapid extinction of species are all part of a single, over-arching problem:
    Humanity has overshot the carrying capacity of the Earth.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    We show a different video each session
    and discuss a range of important issues and options to address them.

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

  • Sun
    24
    Mar
    2019

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    PRACTICES & ACTIONS TO CREATE RESILIENCE 4th Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS

    In these sessions we focus on creating resilience, both individually and in community.
    It includes personal practices such as deep breathing and meditation,
    to quiet the mind, create clarity, and a state of inner calm,
    as well as sharing useful coping strategies.
    In addition we focus on actions we can take in our communities
    to adapt to the coming changes brought on by climate destabilization.

    No experience necessary. Free! Open to all!
    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    14
    Apr
    2019

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT ~ 2nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:30pm
    SURVIVING PROGRESS
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS, including link

    We are at a crossroads in our history.
    We are on the precipice of destroying our habitat, the very earth
    that gives us sustenance and supports life. Our multiple challenges of climate change,
    deforestation, overgrazing, fisheries collapse, food insecurity,
    and the rapid extinction of species are all part of a single, over-arching problem:
    Humanity has overshot the carrying capacity of the Earth.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    We show a different video each session
    and discuss a range of important issues and options to address them.

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

  • Sun
    28
    Apr
    2019
    Wed
    01
    May
    2019

    7:00 pmKripalu Center for Yoga & Health, Southbridge, MA

    YOGIC TEACHINGS FOR THE GREAT TRANSITION

    We are living in an extraordinary moment in our history … when the old is dying
    and the new is being birthed … but has not yet arrived -- because we are creating it!
    We have a once-in-a civilization opportunity to help shape what comes next,
    to help usher in the higher consciousness
    of our Emerging Future!
    It’s what some spiritual teachers are calling the Great Transition
    ,
    or what Joanna Macy calls the Great Turning …
    toward a more conscious and life-affirming culture.  
     
    We’ll delve into our yoga practices to bring forth the best within ourselves,
    so we can contribute to this transformation.
    We'll contemplate the sacredness
    of this time of transition and call forth our Inner Heroine.
    With laughter, connection, compassion, courage, and camaraderie we’ll be inspired
    by the other spirited women in the group.
    This mini-retreat will leave you energized, inspired,
    and centered. 
      
     
    We’ll explore a wide range of yoga poses, breathing practices and meditation, as well as tap into our intuition, wisdom and inner guidance ...
    listening to the Emerging Future calling us forward ...

    See the flier above for complete information and registration.  

  • Sun
    28
    Apr
    2019

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    PRACTICES & ACTIONS TO CREATE RESILIENCE 4th Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm
    TOPIC: The Resilience Age
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPETE DETAILS, including link to video

    In these sessions we focus on creating resilience, both individually and in community.
    It includes personal practices such as deep breathing and meditation,
    to quiet the mind, create clarity, and a state of inner calm,
    as well as sharing useful coping strategies.
    In addition we focus on actions we can take in our communities
    to adapt to the coming changes brought on by climate destabilization.

    No experience necessary. Free! Open to all!
    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    12
    May
    2019

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT ~ 2nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:30pm
    CLIMATE: What are the Real Causes and Why the Climate May Tip
    Presentation by Norbert Lechner, Professor Emeritus
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER with complete information 

    We are at a crossroads in our history.
    We are on the precipice of destroying our habitat, the very earth
    that gives us sustenance and supports life. Our multiple challenges of climate change,
    deforestation, overgrazing, fisheries collapse, food insecurity,
    and the rapid extinction of species are all part of a single, over-arching problem:
    Humanity has overshot the carrying capacity of the Earth.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    We show a different video each session
    and discuss a range of important issues and options to address them.

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

  • Sun
    26
    May
    2019

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    PRACTICES & ACTIONS TO CREATE RESILIENCE, 4th Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm
    The Value of Looking at Our Multiple Crises Through a Spiritual Lens
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER with complete details

    In these sessions we focus on creating resilience, both individually and in community.
    It includes personal practices such as deep breathing and meditation,
    to quiet the mind, create clarity, and a state of inner calm,
    as well as sharing useful coping strategies.
    In addition we focus on actions we can take in our communities
    to adapt to the coming changes brought on by climate destabilization.

    No experience necessary. Free! Open to all!
    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    09
    Jun
    2019

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT ~ 2nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm
    ECONOMIC POLICIES TO FIX CLIMATE CHANGE
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS

    We are at a crossroads in our history.
    We are on the precipice of destroying our habitat, the very earth
    that gives us sustenance and supports life. Our multiple challenges of climate change,
    deforestation, overgrazing, fisheries collapse, food insecurity,
    and the rapid extinction of species are all part of a single, over-arching problem:
    Humanity has overshot the carrying capacity of the Earth.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    We show a different video each session
    and discuss a range of important issues and options to address them.

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

  • Sun
    23
    Jun
    2019

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    PRACTICES & ACTIONS TO CREATE RESILIENCE 4th Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm
    DEEP ADAPTATION: A Map for Navigating Climate Tragedy
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS, including links

    In these sessions we focus on creating resilience, both individually and in community.
    It includes personal practices such as deep breathing and meditation,
    to quiet the mind, create clarity, and a state of inner calm,
    as well as sharing useful coping strategies.
    In addition we focus on actions we can take in our communities
    to adapt to the coming changes brought on by climate destabilization.

    No experience necessary. Free! Open to all!
    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    14
    Jul
    2019

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT ~ 2nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:30pm
    ICE ON FIRE
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER, with links to documentary 

    We are at a crossroads in our history.
    We are on the precipice of destroying our habitat, the very earth
    that gives us sustenance and supports life. Our multiple challenges of climate change,
    deforestation, overgrazing, fisheries collapse, food insecurity,
    and the rapid extinction of species are all part of a single, over-arching problem:
    Humanity has overshot the carrying capacity of the Earth.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    We show a different video each session
    and discuss a range of important issues and options to address them.

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

  • Sun
    28
    Jul
    2019

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    PRACTICES & ACTIONS TO CREATE RESILIENCE 4th Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm
    CLIMATE TRUTH IS BEING SPOKEN.  NOW WHAT?
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER with complete details, including link to video

    In these sessions we focus on creating resilience, both individually and in community.
    It includes personal practices such as deep breathing and meditation,
    to quiet the mind, create clarity, and a state of inner calm,
    as well as sharing useful coping strategies.
    In addition we focus on actions we can take in our communities
    to adapt to the coming changes brought on by climate destabilization.

    No experience necessary. Free! Open to all!
    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    11
    Aug
    2019

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT ~ 2nd Sunday of each month

    CLIMATE CRISIS COMMUNICATION
    with Dr. Tom Hoban
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER, with complete details

    We are at a crossroads in our history.
    We are on the precipice of destroying our habitat, the very earth
    that gives us sustenance and supports life. Our multiple challenges of climate change,
    deforestation, overgrazing, fisheries collapse, food insecurity,
    and the rapid extinction of species are all part of a single, over-arching problem:
    Humanity has overshot the carrying capacity of the Earth.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    We show a different video each session
    and discuss a range of important issues and options to address them.

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

  • Sun
    25
    Aug
    2019

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    PRACTICES & ACTIONS TO CREATE RESILIENCE 4th Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm
    SELF-CARE IN TURBULENT TIMES
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER with complete details

    In these sessions we focus on creating resilience, both individually and in community.
    It includes personal practices such as deep breathing and meditation,
    to quiet the mind, create clarity, and a state of inner calm,
    as well as sharing useful coping strategies.
    In addition we focus on actions we can take in our communities
    to adapt to the coming changes brought on by climate destabilization.

    No experience necessary. Free! Open to all!
    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    08
    Sep
    2019

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT ~ 2nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:30pm
    MANUFACTURING CONSENT: THE ROLE OF MEDIA IN A "DEMOCRACY"
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER WITH COMPLETE DETAILS, including links to videos

    We are at a crossroads in our history.
    We are on the precipice of destroying our habitat, the very earth
    that gives us sustenance and supports life. Our multiple challenges of climate change,
    deforestation, overgrazing, fisheries collapse, food insecurity,
    and the rapid extinction of species are all part of a single, over-arching problem:
    Humanity has overshot the carrying capacity of the Earth.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    We show a different video each session
    and discuss a range of important issues and options to address them.

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

  • Sun
    22
    Sep
    2019

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    PRACTICES & ACTIONS TO CREATE RESILIENCE 4th Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm
    CLICK HERE for flier with complete details

    In these sessions we focus on creating resilience, both individually and in community.
    It includes personal practices such as deep breathing and meditation,
    to quiet the mind, create clarity, and a state of inner calm,
    as well as sharing useful coping strategies.
    In addition we focus on actions we can take in our communities
    to adapt to the coming changes brought on by climate destabilization.

    No experience necessary. Free! Open to all!
    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Wed
    09
    Oct
    2019

    6:30pm-8:00pmChapel Hill Library, 100 Library Road

    The Citizens Climate Collaborative and the Center for Biological Diversity are pleased to co-sponsor and important presentation with Professor Norbert Lechner
    Wednesday, October 9
    CHAPEL HILL LIBRARY

    Click here for information with complete details: 

     

  • Sun
    13
    Oct
    2019

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT ~ 2nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:30pm
    EXTINCTION REBELLION:  “TELL THE TRUTH AND ACT AS IF THE TRUTH IS REAL”
    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER with complete details, including link to video 

    We are at a crossroads in our history.
    We are on the precipice of destroying our habitat, the very earth
    that gives us sustenance and supports life. Our multiple challenges of climate change,
    deforestation, overgrazing, fisheries collapse, food insecurity,
    and the rapid extinction of species are all part of a single, over-arching problem:
    Humanity has overshot the carrying capacity of the Earth.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    We show a different video each session
    and discuss a range of important issues and options to address them.

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

  • Sun
    27
    Oct
    2019

    6:30pm-8:00pmYouthWorx 117 Main St, next to PTA Thrift Shop. Carrboro

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    PRACTICES & ACTIONS TO CREATE RESILIENCE 4th Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm
    CLICK HERE for flier with complete details, including alternate location

    In these sessions we focus on creating resilience, both individually and in community.
    It includes personal practices such as deep breathing and meditation,
    to quiet the mind, create clarity, and a state of inner calm,
    as well as sharing useful coping strategies.
    In addition we focus on actions we can take in our communities
    to adapt to the coming changes brought on by climate destabilization.

    No experience necessary. Free! Open to all!
    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    10
    Nov
    2019

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall, 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT ~ 2nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:30pm
    "MASSIVE CHANGE IS UPON US".  HOW DO WE PREPARE?
    CLICK HERE for flier with complete details, including link for video

    We are at a crossroads in our history.
    We are on the precipice of destroying our habitat, the very earth
    that gives us sustenance and supports life. Our multiple challenges of climate change,
    deforestation, overgrazing, fisheries collapse, food insecurity,
    and the rapid extinction of species are all part of a single, over-arching problem:
    Humanity has overshot the carrying capacity of the Earth.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    We show a different video each session
    and discuss a range of important issues and options to address them.

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

  • Sun
    24
    Nov
    2019

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    PRACTICES & ACTIONS TO CREATE RESILIENCE 4th Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm
    GRATITUDE: The Short Film by Louie Schwartzberg
    & THE QUEEN OF TREES: The Amazing Sycamore Fig Tree in Africa
    CLICK HERE for flier with complete details

    In these sessions we focus on creating resilience, both individually and in community.
    It includes personal practices such as deep breathing and meditation,
    to quiet the mind, create clarity, and a state of inner calm,
    as well as sharing useful coping strategies.
    In addition we focus on actions we can take in our communities
    to adapt to the coming changes brought on by climate destabilization.

    No experience necessary. Free! Open to all!
    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    08
    Dec
    2019

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT ~ 2nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:30pm

    We are at a crossroads in our history.
    We are on the precipice of destroying our habitat, the very earth
    that gives us sustenance and supports life. Our multiple challenges of climate change,
    deforestation, overgrazing, fisheries collapse, food insecurity,
    and the rapid extinction of species are all part of a single, over-arching problem:
    Humanity has overshot the carrying capacity of the Earth.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    We show a different video each session
    and discuss a range of important issues and options to address them.

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

  • Sun
    22
    Dec
    2019

    6:30pm-8:00pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    PRACTICES & ACTIONS TO CREATE RESILIENCE 4th Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:00pm
    HONORING OUR WINTER SOLSTICE
    CLICK HERE for flier with complete details

    In these sessions we focus on creating resilience, both individually and in community.
    It includes personal practices such as deep breathing and meditation,
    to quiet the mind, create clarity, and a state of inner calm,
    as well as sharing useful coping strategies.
    In addition we focus on actions we can take in our communities
    to adapt to the coming changes brought on by climate destabilization.

    No experience necessary. Free! Open to all!
    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder & Jim Sander

  • Sun
    12
    Jan
    2020

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT ~ 2nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:30pm
    WHAT IF ...?  We were successful... what does that look like and how do we get there?
    CLICK HERE for flier with complete details
    We are at a crossroads in our history.
    We are on the precipice of destroying our habitat, the very earth
    that gives us sustenance and supports life. Our multiple challenges of climate change,
    deforestation, overgrazing, fisheries collapse, food insecurity,
    and the rapid extinction of species are all part of a single, over-arching problem:
    Humanity has overshot the carrying capacity of the Earth.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    We show a different video each session
    and discuss a range of important issues and options to address them.

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

  • Sun
    09
    Feb
    2020

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT ~ 2nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:30pm
    BLIND SPOT
    CLICK HERE for flier with complete details, including link to video

    We are at a crossroads in our history.
    We are on the precipice of destroying our habitat, the very earth
    that gives us sustenance and supports life. Our multiple challenges of climate change,
    deforestation, overgrazing, fisheries collapse, food insecurity,
    and the rapid extinction of species are all part of a single, over-arching problem:
    Humanity has overshot the carrying capacity of the Earth.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    We show a different video each session
    and discuss a range of important issues and options to address them.

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

  • Sun
    08
    Mar
    2020

    6:30pm-8:30pmOasis Café in Carr Mill Mall, 200 N. Greensboro St, first floor Carrboro, NC

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT ~ 2nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:30pm
    THE SUCCESS AND ABUNDANCE OF REGENERATIVE FARMING

    CLICK HERE FOR FLIER, with details including video links

    We are at a crossroads in our history.
    We are on the precipice of destroying our habitat, the very earth
    that gives us sustenance and supports life. Our multiple challenges of climate change,
    deforestation, overgrazing, fisheries collapse, food insecurity,
    and the rapid extinction of species are all part of a single, over-arching problem:

    Humanity has overshot the carrying capacity of the Earth.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    We show a different video each session
    and discuss a range of important issues and options to address them.

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

  • Mon
    06
    Apr
    2020
    Sun
    21
    Jun
    2020

    6:30pm-8:30pmStaying at home

    DUE TO THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC OUR
    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT ~ 2nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:30pm
    ARE CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

    PLEASE STAY HOME, TAKE APPROPRIATE PRECAUTIONS, AND BE SAFE.
    WE WILL REASSESS THE SITUATION TOWARD THE END OF JUNE

  • Sun
    28
    Jun
    2020

    6:30pm-8:30pmOnline with ZOOM; see flier for link

    VIDEO & DISCUSSION, 6:30-8:30PM
    THE STATE OF THE SPECIES: EARTH DAY 2020 PRESENTATION
    with Nate Hagens, Ph.D.

    CLICK HERE for flier with complete details, including the Zoom link

    We are at a crossroads in our history.
    We are on the precipice of destroying our habitat, the very earth
    that gives us sustenance and supports life. Our multiple challenges of climate change,
    deforestation, overgrazing, fisheries collapse, food insecurity,
    and the rapid extinction of species are all part of a single, over-arching problem:

    Humanity has overshot the carrying capacity of the Earth.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    We show a different video each session
    and discuss a range of important issues and options to address them.

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Tana Hartman Thorn,
    Dirk Kelder, and Jim Sander

  • Thu
    06
    Aug
    2020

    4:00 pmOnline with ZOOM; see flier for link

    CLIMATE DESTABILIZATION: OUR LONG EMERGENCY
    VIDEO & DISCUSSION NIGHT, 7:00-9:00PM

    MOSSVILLE: WHEN GREAT TREES FALL
    A powerful portrait of the human cost of environmental devastation.

    CLICK HERE for flier with complete details, including the Zoom link

    We are at a crossroads in our history.
    We are on the precipice of destroying our habitat, the very earth
    that gives us sustenance and supports life. Our multiple challenges of climate change,
    deforestation, overgrazing, fisheries collapse, food insecurity,
    and the rapid extinction of species are all part of a single, over-arching problem:

    Humanity has overshot the carrying capacity of the Earth.

    Join with others willing to honestly face our situation and have the most important
    discussion of our lives:
    how we pull out of our ecological nosedive and transition
    to a life-affirming global culture, an earth community of sustainability, justice, and peace.

    We show a different video each session
    and discuss a range of important issues and options to address them.

    Presented by the Citizens Climate Collaborative:
    Betsey Downing, Dirk Kelder, & Jim Sander

  • Thu
    14
    Jan
    2021

    TRAINING IN COMPASSION & RESILIENCE
    BOOK CLUB
    Beginning Thursday, January 14, 2:00-3:30pm
    Email Betsey (betsey@betseydowning.com) to reserve your space.
    The Book Club is free, but you must reserve your space.

    Join Betsey and a group of kindred spirits in a book club focused on developing the mental and emotional skills we need to meet the challenges of this tumultuous time, with maturity and resilience.

    The more grounded, calm, and compassionate we become, the greater our resilience.

    Humanity is at a crossroads.  We all know it.  We are destroying the habitat that gives us sustenance, and supports all life.  We are facing a Climate Emergency, catastrophic loss of ice, staggering biodiversity loss, and an increasingly threatened food supply.  The pandemic threatens our economy and continues to spread.  Researchers and scientists have stated that if we continue on this path, collapse is a likely outcome.

    Barbara Marx Hubbard’s statement, “Evolve or die”, comes to mind here.

    We may choose to “Evolve”, but what does that look like?  Evolve into what?  Many spiritual teachers note that as a species we are at an adolescence stage of development.  Our task is to grow up … and to grow up fast!  What kind of maturity do we need in order to rise to the challenges we face?

    How can we bring forth the best within ourselves?
    How can we respond, in head and heart, so that we are steady and grounded?
    And could we also serve as a beacon of sanity for others?

    How can we be grounded in reality and at the same time be open to possibilities?
    How can we become a “Possibilitarian”?

    Come explore these important issues with us!

    We’ll use the book, Training in Compassion Zen Teachings on the Practice of Lojong by Norman Fischer, as our guide and springboard for discussions.  We’ll take our time with the book, reading it over approximately 6 months, to absorb and apply the teachings in our daily lives.  We’ll also practice mindfulness and develop a community of support for having conversations of significance.

    Very practical, this book focuses on how to train the mind so we have more compassion and resilience, with a goal of these qualities becoming the way we are and the way we live on a daily basis.  The book is based on a highly revered Tibetan Buddhist text from 1200 CE and has been translated by many great teachers.  It contains 7 Principles and 59 slogans, or aphorisms, that are antidotes to mental habits that cause suffering.  We will read and apply a few of the slogans for each session.

    The Book Club sessions include the following:

    • Read 6-8 pages in advance of each session, and use the “slogans” in daily life; specific slogans will be given for each session in advance
    • Discussion of our experiences in applying them
    • Short mindfulness practice
    • Breathing practices
    • Discussion of a wide range of related topics (see below)
    • Guided meditation

    The Compassion & Resilience Book Club begins Thursday, January 14, 2021, 2:00-3:30pm with an Introduction; no reading necessary for the Introductory session.

    • Meets on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays
    • No obligation; attend as long as it’s beneficial for you
    • Only requirement: read the pages and come with an open heart prepared to discuss

    And since just about everything is related to how our minds think and how our hearts feel, we’ll explore a wide range of topics, which may include:

    • “Holding Space”
    • Response vs reaction
    • Connecting with others at a level deeper than belief systems
    • Keeping a “circle of connection” when processing challenging issues
    • Using everything as an opportunity to “wake up”
    • “Radical responsibility”
    • Recognizing our perceptual filters
    • Intuition and how to develop it
    • Non-dual philosophy
    • Synchronicities, grief, death, quantum physics, seeding the future and more!
    • Note: no blaming, shaming, or complaining! No conspiracy theories.

    Email Betsey (betsey@betseydowning.com) to save your spot.
    The Compassion & Resilience Book Club is free, but you must reserve your space to attend.

  • Thu
    14
    Jan
    2021

    INTRODUCTION
    TO TRAINING IN COMPASSION AND RESILIENCE BOOK CLUB
    Thursday, January 14, 2021
    2:00-3:30pm, EST

    TOPICS INCLUDE: 
    THE INTELLECTUAL, EMOTIONAL, AND SPIRITUAL MATURITY
    NEEDED TO RISE TO THE CHALLENGES WE FACE;
    A "REACTION" VS A "RESPONSE"
    DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BEING JUDGMENTAL VS USING DISCERNMENT
    WHAT IS "HOLDING SPACE"?
    THE BENEFIT OF WATCHING THE MIND
    AND MINDFULNESS PRACTICE

  • Sun
    17
    Jan
    2021

    MAKE-UP SESSION for the
    INTRODUCTION
    to TRAINING IN COMPASSION & RESILIENCE BOOK CLUB

    Sunday, January 17
    2:00-3:30pm, EST
    Email Betsey at the address above for the Zoom  link.

    TOPICS INCLUDE: 
    THE INTELLECTUAL, EMOTIONAL, AND SPIRITUAL MATURITY
    NEEDED TO RISE TO THE CHALLENGES WE FACE;
    A "REACTION" VS A "RESPONSE"
    DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BEING JUDGMENTAL VS USING DISCERNMENT
    WHAT IS "HOLDING SPACE"?
    THE BENEFIT OF WATCHING THE MIND
    AND MINDFULNESS PRACTICE

    The Book Club is based on the book:
    TRAINING IN COMPASSION,
    Zen Teachings on the Practice of Lojong
    by Norman Fischer

    The Book Club meets ON ZOOM on the 2nd and the 4th Thursdays of the month,
    and continues for 6-7 months.

  • Thu
    28
    Jan
    2021

    TRAINING IN COMPASSION AND RESILIENCE BOOK CLUB
    Thursday, January 28, 2021
    2:00-3:30pm, EST

    PREPARATION FOR THIS SESSION:
    In your daily life, observe your mind: notice judgements, reactions, and responses.
    Note any times you’ve been able to “Hold Space”.
    Practice sitting mindfulness and see what you discover about your mind.
    Read the Introduction to the book: pages ix to xx, which is background information on the author and training the mind.

    INFORMATION SHARED:
    Full definition of Namaste
    For more information on the Grandmothers see Netoflight.org
    Grandmothers meditations
    (unfortunately it does not include the Container meditation)
    Carl Jung quote:
    "Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life, and you will call it fate".
    Book that Wendy recommended:
    Good Morning, I Love You: Mindfulness and Self-Compassion Practices
    to Rewire Your Brain for Calm, Clarity and Joy
    by Shauna Shapiro

     

  • Thu
    11
    Feb
    2021

    TRAINING IN COMPASSION AND RESILIENCE BOOK CLUB
    Thursday, February 11, 2021
    2:00-3:30pm, EST

    PREPARATION FOR THIS SESSION:
    Read Chapter 1: Resolve to Begin, pages 1-8
    Recommended: get a journal or notebook for writing what you're learning about yourself 
    Practice sitting mindfulness with nonjudgmental curiosity and kindness,
    and see what you discover about your mind
    QUESTIONS FOR CONTEMPLATION:
    In what ways have you trained in the preliminaries in your life so far?
    I
    n your daily life, when did you choose a response rather than a reaction?

  • Thu
    25
    Feb
    2021

    TRAINING IN COMPASSION AND RESILIENCE BOOK CLUB
    Thursday, February 25, 2021
    2:00-3:30pm, EST

    PREPARATIONS FOR THIS SESSION:
    Read in Chapter 2: Train in Empathy and Compassion, pages 9-19,
    through slogan 2, See everything as a dream.  
    Recommended: get a journal or notebook for writing what you're learning about yourself 
    Practice sitting mindfulness with self-compassion, curiosity, and kindness,
    and note what you discover about your thoughts 
      QUESTIONS FOR CONTEMPLATION
      Describe absolute bodhicitta in your own words.  How does it differ from relative bodhicitta?
    It’s helpful to write your ideas in your journal.
    What does slogan 2: "See everything as a dream”, mean for you?  How do you see it in your life?  
  • Thu
    11
    Mar
    2021

    TRAINING IN COMPASSION AND RESILIENCE BOOK CLUB
    Thursday, March 11, 2021
    2:00-3:30pm, EST

    PREPARATIONS FOR THIS SESSION:
    Read pages 20-23, slogans 3, 4, and 5.
    Practice sitting mindfulness meditation; see guidelines on p. 153-156, last 4 pages of the book.
    Practice self-compassion and kindness.
    QUESTIONS FOR CONTEMPLATION:
    What gifts does the Universe want to bring forth through you at this time?
    What lessons or insights have you received during the past year?
    What does it feel like for you to “rest in the openness of mind”? (slogan 5)

  • Thu
    25
    Mar
    2021

    TRAINING IN COMPASSION AND RESILIENCE BOOK CLUB
    Thursday, March 25, 2021
    2:00-3:30pm, EST

    PREPARATIONS FOR THIS SESSION:
    Read pages 24-27, slogan 6: in post-meditation be a child of illusion
    Practice sitting mindfulness meditation, with kindness and self-compassion
    In your daily life, periodically pause for 3 deep breaths and "rest in the openness of mind", and savor returning to yourself (see page 23 for more details)

    QUESTIONS FOR CONTEMPLATION:

    What does Fischer mean by “in post-meditation be a child of illusion”?
    How would you describe that concept in words that resonate with you?

     

  • Thu
    08
    Apr
    2021

    TRAINING IN COMPASSION AND RESILIENCE BOOK CLUB
    Thursday, April 8, 2021
    2:00-3:30pm, EST

    PREPARATIONS FOR NEXT TIME:
    Read pages 29-39, slogan 7 & 8
    Practice meditation 4 or more times a week
    Consider asking one of these questions at the end of your meditation:
    * What gifts does the Universe want to bring forth through me at this time?
    *  What does the Universe want from me today?
    *  What advice does my Higher Self have for me today?
    *  What do I want from the Universe today?
    Explore the “sending and receiving” practice, as detailed in the reading.

    CONTEMPLATION QUESTIONS:
    This was the final blessing we recited in our March 25 session:
    May you be safe and protected
    May you be healthy and strong, and
    May you be happy and at peace.
    This blessing epitomizes one of the most important “secrets of life” (in order to be happy and at peace).  What is it?
    How did you respond emotionally when you did the “sending and receiving” practice?

     

  • Thu
    22
    Apr
    2021

    TRAINING IN COMPASSION AND RESILIENCE BOOK CLUB
    Thursday, April 22, 2021
    2:00-3:30pm, EST

    PREPARATIONS FOR THIS SESSION:
        
      *  Read pages 39-50, slogans 9, 10, and 11.
    (For yoga practitioners, note the similarity to yoga concepts in these slogans!)
     Practice sitting mindfulness meditation, 4 or more times a week, with kindness and curiosity  
    Consider asking one of these questions at the end of your meditation:
    (Feel free to substitute another word for “Universe" if you prefer: my Higher Self, All That Is, the Divine, etc.)
    *  What gifts does the Universe want to bring forth through me at this time?
    *  What does the Universe want from me today?
    *  What advice does my Higher Self have for me today?
    *  What do I want from the Universe today?
      Observe how the "three poisons” operate in your mind and life.   
     
    CONTEMPLATION QUESTIONS: (Contemplate and journal about these questions)
    Give an example of how you could apply Slogan 9: Turn things around in your life.

     How could you apply greater “patience” in your life, as the author discusses in slogan 11?

     

  • Thu
    13
    May
    2021

    TRAINING IN COMPASSION AND RESILIENCE BOOK CLUB
    Thursday, May 13, 2021
    2:00-3:30pm, EST

    PREPARATIONS FOR THIS SESSION:     
    *  Read pages 45-62, slogans 12-16
    Practice regular sitting mindfulness meditation
    As a way to deepen your connection to your Higher Self / Intuition,
    consider asking one of the questions we've used previously.  See the April 22 list above.

    CONTEMPLATION QUESTIONS:
    What does Slogan 12: “Drive all blames into one” mean?  What is an example of how you’ve done this in your life?
    How can you amplify Slogan 13: “Be grateful to everyone”?  What happens in your life when you do?
    Slogan 16 says, “Whatever you meet is the path”.  What does that mean for you in your life?

  • Sun
    16
    May
    2021

    TRAINING IN COMPASSION AND RESILIENCE BOOK CLUB
    Thursday, July 22, 2021
    2:00-3:30pm, EST

  • Thu
    27
    May
    2021

    TRAINING IN COMPASSION AND RESILIENCE BOOK CLUB
    Thursday, May, 27, 2021
    2:00-3:30pm, EST

    PREPARATIONS FOR THIS SESSION    
    *  Read pages 63-80, the chapter on Make Practice Your Whole Life; slogans 17 and 18
    and practice with the slogans throughout the 2 weeks between our meetings
    *  C
    ontinue with regular mindfulness meditation practice
    *  Use mindfulness to observe yourself in daily life and practice “Holding Space” as often as possible. (If you want a refresher, the concept of "Holding Space" is presented In the first session in January; toward the beginning of the recording)

    CONTEMPLATION QUESTIONS:
    In Slogan 17, Reproach is the 4th strength.  How are you working with Reproach in your life?
    What does Fischer say is the benefit of spiritual practice at the time of death? 
    Have you ever been with someone at the time of their death?  What was that experience like for you?   
  • Thu
    10
    Jun
    2021

    TRAINING IN COMPASSION AND RESILIENCE BOOK CLUB
    Thursday, June 10, 2021
    2:00-3:30pm, EST

    PREPARATIONS FOR THIS SESSION    

    Read pages 81-106, slogans 19-26. Notice that with slogan 23, we are moving into The Discipline of Relationship;
    interestingly, only about 25% of the slogans are about relationships, the vast majority are about the inner mental training
    we need to do first in order to have good relationships!

    Read the slogans soon, so you can be contemplating them as you go about your life, walk your dog, as well as during meditation, etc.

    Continue with regular mindfulness practices

    The Namaste greeting we so often use means, "The Light within me honors the Light within you" or "The Divine in me bows to the Divine in you" or "The soul in me honors the soul in you" (choose any version of Namaste you resonate with!).  How many people can you honor each day by silently saying this to them? ...  Even people you hardly know and just casually interact with.

    CONTEMPLATION QUESTIONS:
    Slogans 19-22 are: There's only one point , Trust your own eyes, Maintain joy (and don't lose your sense of humor), and Practice when you're distracted.
    Reflect on which of these is most significant to you at this time in your life and why.

    Slogans 23-26 are the first four in the Discipline of Relationship: Come back to basics, Don't be a phony,
    Don't talk about faults, and Don't figure others out.
    Which of these 4 is the most surprising or challenging for you, and how could you work with it?

     

  • Thu
    24
    Jun
    2021

    TRAINING IN COMPASSION AND RESILIENCE BOOK CLUB
    Thursday, June 24, 2021
    2:00-3:30pm, EST

    PREPARATIONS FOR THIS SESSION
    * R
    ead pages 106-123, slogans 27-38.
    * Recommended: read the slogans soon, so you can be contemplating them as you go about your life,
    drive to the store, walk your dog, or journal, as well as during meditation, etc.
    * Continue with regular mindfulness practices

    CONTEMPLATION QUESTIONS:
    Reflect on which two slogans in 27-38 are most significant to you
    at this time in your life and why.
    Which slogan would improve your life the most if you were to adopt it fully?
    Which of these is your biggest edge, and why?

     

  • Thu
    08
    Jul
    2021

    TRAINING IN COMPASSION AND RESILIENCE BOOK CLUB
    Thursday, July 8, 2021
    2:00-3:30pm, EST

    PREPARATIONS FOR THIS SESSION
    * R
    ead pages 125-138: Living with Ease in a Crazy World, slogans 39-49.
    *  Continue meditation/mindfulness practices
    *  Contemplate the Prayer of Your Soul by John O'Donohue and make notes of what speaks to you

    CONTEMPLATION QUESTIONS:
    * Make a note of 3 passages (written explanations) in the slogans that inspire you, to share in your breakout room
    * What is the one intention to correct all wrongs?
    * Which slogan, if you practiced if fully, would change your life the most?  What's stopping you from doing that?

     

  • Thu
    22
    Jul
    2021

    TRAINING IN COMPASSION AND RESILIENCE BOOK CLUB
    Thursday, July 22, 2021
    2:00-3:30pm, EST

    PREPARATIONS FOR THIS SESSION
    * R
    ead pages 138-148, slogans 50-59 and the Afterword
    * Develop a ritual to begin your meditation/mindfulness practices
    * Write a draft of the Prayer of Your Soul; see John O'Donohue's prayer in Resources to inspire you

    CONTEMPLATION QUESTIONS:
    * Which slogans in Living with Ease in a Crazy World speak to you the most?
    * What are the most significant understandings that you'll take with you from the Book Club?
    * In what ways are you more compassionate and more resilient now than you were before the Book Club?