Meditation is the core component of this program. Serious dedication and commitment to a daily meditation practice is highly recommended.

Enlightenment is a path of awakening rather than a stress reduction program (although this may be one benefit we receive from our practice). This program is to fully embrace the awakened heart by living this vision fully into our lives.

Reflection We will be practicing both shamatha (concentration) and vipassana (insight) meditation techniques and encouraging contemplative investigation into the nature of self. We will be reading, from both the Pali Canon and selected Mahayana Sutras. There will also be some assigned writing.

Insight The MERIT program is founded on the Prajnaparamita, known as the transcendent wisdom teachings, which go beyond all forms of duality, psychology, and spirituality.

Transformation Opening our hearts is the key to transformation. When we do this, we are able to effortlessly let go of all our hindrances. Therefore, the MERIT Program emphasizes the practices of compassion.