DISCOVERING BUDDHISM
Daylong Retreat with Gus Cutz: Transforming Problems
As poets say, peacocks convert the poison they consume into the brilliant colors of their feathers. In the same way, we too can convert all our unwanted experiences into more positive mental states.
Join Gus Cutz as he skillfully shows us how to transform problems into happiness using the special techniques of mind training (lojong). Reflecting on the “Eight Verses of Thought Transformation” and practicing giving and taking meditation (tonglen), we learn to shift our attitude from cherishing ourselves in a self-centered way to affectionately cherishing others. Gus will also integrate other practices from the Transforming Problems module of Discovering Buddhism.
The retreat will include time for discussion and several guided meditations. Making the most of this opportunity to reorient our minds, we will practice silence during all the breaks. Come one, come all, bring friends and enjoy the tranquility of retreat.
About the Teacher
Gustavo Cutz is an FPMT-certified teacher with some 25 years of Buddhist practice and study. Gus previously worked as an editor at Wisdom Publications in Boston. He worked with Geshe Thubten Soepa on interpreting and summarizing Geshe-la’s teachings on several topics, such as the Four Noble Truths, the eight worldly concerns, and the six perfections until Geshe-la passed away in 2022. Gus has a doctorate from LIU Post and works as a clinical psychologist on Long Island.
Gus has volunteered with Shantideva Center since 2008, facilitating and teaching Discovering Buddhism since 2012. With his deft mastery of a vast bibliography, Gus approaches Discovering Buddhism as a rigorous and comprehensive seminar. At the same time, Gus teaches with a light touch, warmly encouraging questions and valuing student understanding of the material. Gus brings the Buddha’s teachings to life with an appealing sense of humor, personal anecdotes, and vivid metaphors.
Gus also teaches the Debate Club at Shantideva Center in addition to teaching dharma topics at other spiritual centers.
