This is the fifth talk in a 5-part speaker series titled "Balanced Practice." Richard Shankman begins by exploring the nature of the liberation and awakening pointed to by the Buddha, and then examines how meditation supports us on that path.

The art of Dhamma practice includes engaging skillfully with complementary aspects of practice. Sometimes we are called to actively cultivate qualities, while at other times, letting go is more appropriate. We use both our head and our heart; we engage both inwardly and in the outer world; we need both restraint and boldness. Sometimes qualities that at first appear to be in opposition, are actually inseparable -- like the front and back of a hand. This speaker series explores potential paradoxes and complimentary forces in meditation, as we learn to develop a balanced practice.