In studying Buddhism, we learn that what we do and what happens to us is somehow connected. We do not exist separately from everyone and everything else. Because of this, we follow the Path: we choose to be responsible in our thoughts, words and actions – responsible for everything that we experience – and it is a good thing. Though at times we may revert to old patterns and habits, making things suddenly seem frightening or unfair, these difficulties are chances to “stretch” and grow.

     Gone are the days of saying, “she made me angry,” because we know that we are the only ones who can make us angry. When we understand this, we view things from a new perspective. We see the world differently and we re-evaluate how we look at stress in our daily lives; it becomes crystal clear that our stress is created by our own mental processes as we go through the day. 

     If we feel separate – other things and people can become a threat, a barrier or an obstacle, and we have a tendency to go into “fight or flight” scenarios. We actually become or embody this fear, pain, or anger that we have created, and we become heavily invested in “being right.” 

      When we are able to stay connected, engaged – without judging, avoiding, or running away, and instead process it and let it go – there is no barrier.

       It is actually delusional to think that we can successfully avoid difficulties or run away from them. Most of the time we get over-emotional about situations, we are simply putting up a “smoke-screen” so that we don’t have to look deep inside. Perhaps because it is there, that we will easily see our attachments and justifications for the mere phantoms that they are. 

       Buddha taught us to be genuine in every moment of our lives. And just like any new skill we acquire, it takes practice on our part. To develop this new ability, it takes all the unique moments of daily living and our interactions with others. These provide us with the opportunities we need.

      Eventually, “genuine living” becomes second-nature and we automatically function this way in everything we do. That is when we know we have embodied the teaching.

“Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.”  - Mahatma Gandhi

David Freeman will begin   teaching the basics of Buddhism for children at the Dharma Center. The Dharma 4 Kids is  an offering many have asked for over the years with several stops and starts.  If you are interested in our Basic Teaching Class and have children,  you can now make Wednesday a family night. David says about his offering,  "A great man never ignores the simplicity of a child.  I humbly request and would be greatly pleased if, when you are able to attend our Wednesday night class,  you bring your children so they may teach me."  

We are all here to learn together!

- Rev. Hildebrand completed her service to the board as President and has stepped down.

- Michael Deverey  resigned from the Board for personal reasons.

- Dave Rose was elected President of the Board

- Ira Bryant as Vice President

- Mike Moffeit will hold the office of Treasury

- Jan Rose was elected to complete Mike D.'s term as Secretary