Timeless Wisdom To Remedy Extreme Thinking

The Middle Way Initiative is an educational nonprofit Buddhist organization that supports and encourages spirited conversation around the Buddha’s most essential teachings.

Support MWI in the 2026 Donor Campaign

We extend our deepest appreciation for all your support! Our 2026 Donor Campaign runs through December 31st.

For this year’s random drawing we are offering a beautiful, high quality archival print of the painting “Buddha” by Tara DiGesu. Second and third prizes are a stunning signed print photograph by Dungse Jampal Norbu and a signed copy of the children’s book “The Life of the Buddha” illustrated by Tara DiGesu.

You will be eligible for the drawing if during 2026 you give or have given a cumulative amount of $108 or more.

Donate to MWI

UPCOMING EVENTS

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Opening the Heart Sutra with Elizabeth Mattis Namgyel in Brazil

Nov 14

November 14, 2026 – November 15, 2026

Opening the Heart Sutra with Elizabeth Mattis Namgyel in Brazil

November 14, 2026 – November 15, 2026

We are happy to announce the pre-registration for the in-person event with Lama Elizabeth Mattis Namgyel, “Opening the Heart Sutra,” which will take place on November 14–15, 2026, in Florianópolis (SC), Brazil.

Limited spots available.

Registration: www.pazemente.com.br

November 14, 2026 – November 15, 2026

Haunted Ground, Sacred Ground: Save the Date

Apr 17

April 17, 2027 – April 18, 2027

Haunted Ground, Sacred Ground: Save the Date

April 17, 2027 – April 18, 2027

At Dhumatala Temple, Point Richmond, CA

What determines whether our life is a haunted ground or a sacred world? According to the dharma, the distinction between a haunted ground and a sacred world has to do with understanding the nature of appearance and how we utilize (or not) experiences as a means to awaken. The practice of Chod, as taught by Machig Labdron and Dzogchen masters, presents us with the view and skillful means to explore and engage this very question.

April 17, 2027 – April 18, 2027

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OPEN QUESTION PODCAST: LATEST EPISODES

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September 28, 2026

Episode 703: The Two Truths: Not Two, Not True

September 28, 2026

In episode 703, Elizabeth asks the question: "If the absolute nature is not to be found within the nature of appearances themselves, where else would we find it?”

September 28, 2026

April 20, 2026

Episode 702: What Am I Looking At?

April 20, 2026

Elizabeth has a curious encounter at the local post office, which ignites a profound inquiry into the nature of appearance.

April 20, 2026

February 10, 2026

Episode 701: The Great Escape

February 10, 2026

In episode 701, Elizabeth takes us through a classical teaching on the 12 links of dependent origination, which explores the genesis of our confusion, the dazzling spectacle of samsara, and how we can free ourselves from it. “When we feel confused about why we are practicing” she suggests, “just look at the wheel of becoming and it will remind you that there is nothing mystical about liberation. It is very matter-of-fact and within our reach.”

February 10, 2026

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RECENT EVENTS & RECORDINGS

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OQ Live Conversation: Living Dharma with Elizabeth Mattis Namgyel and Thubten Chodron

Nov 7

November 7, 2026

OQ Live Conversation: Living Dharma with Elizabeth Mattis Namgyel and Thubten Chodron

November 7, 2026

In this Open Question Conversation, Elizabeth will engage with Thubten Chodron on the topic of living the dharma. Venerable Thubten Chodron is an author, teacher, and the founder and abbess of Sravasti Abbey, a pioneering Tibetan Buddhist training monastery for Western nuns and monks in the US. Venerable Chodron teaches worldwide and is known for her warm, practical, and humorous explanations of how to apply Buddhist teachings in daily life. She has published many books on Buddhist philosophy and meditation and assisted His Holiness the Dalai Lama in the writing and publication of The Library of Wisdom and Compassion, a ten-volume series of teachings on the Buddhist path.

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November 7, 2026

Open Question Podcast Forum: The Two Truths: Not Two, Not True

Oct 31

October 31, 2026

Open Question Podcast Forum: The Two Truths: Not Two, Not True

October 31, 2026

Please join Elizabeth on Saturday, October 31, 2026 from 10am- 12pm MT USA for her third Open Question Podcast Forum, “Awakening to The Nature of Appearance.” In this group setting, Elizabeth will lead us in opening up and more deeply exploring her latest Open Question Podcast episode 703: “The Two Truths: Not Two, Not True”. This podcast forum will include guided meditation, teachings by Elizabeth, and a rich opportunity for discussion and questions.

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October 31, 2026