A new online course invites participants to discover how ancient Buddhist storytelling traditions can reshape the way we understand our own lives. The Story of Your Life: Buddhism, Creativity, and Meaning is a four-week program led by  Annabella Pitkin, running on Tuesdays via Zoom beginning June 3, 2026.

The course draws on more than two millennia of Buddhist philosophy, poetry, visual arts, film, and ritual music to illuminate life's biggest questions — and to reveal the transformative power of narrative. Participants will explore how cultures across Asia and beyond have used story and creativity as tools for understanding reality and the human experience.

"For over two millennia, Buddhists have utilized storytelling, ritual, and art to investigate the nature of reality and the human experience," said Pitkin, associate professor of religion, culture, and society.

About the Course
Designed to be accessible whether participants are new to Buddhism or already familiar with its traditions, the course covers a rich range of material across four weekly live sessions:

• Buddhist Philosophy & Poetry: From early Indian traditions to contemporary global communities.
• Visual Arts & Film: Multimedia explorations of Buddhist thought and expression.
• Creative Music & Ritual: Engaging with the sensory and performative dimensions of spiritual practice.

Each week combines curated digital readings, art, film, and music for self-paced exploration alongside a 75-minute live Zoom discussion with Dr. Pitkin. Optional deep-dive resources are available for those wishing to go further.

What Participants Will Explore

• Diverse Traditions: Buddhist stories and artistic expressions across cultures and eras.
• Narrative Impact: How storytelling and creativity illuminate Buddhist philosophy and daily practice.
• Personal Narrative: How story influences identity, memory, and meaning — and how we hold the power to change our own narratives.

Course Details
Instructor:  Dr. Annabella Pitkin
Format:  Online — live Zoom discussion sessions
Session Length:  75 minutes per week
Dates:  June 3, 10, 17, and 24