MY "WHY" FOR VOLUNTEERING: Reflections from sangha members

How has KSC changed your life? Here are some heartfelt reflections from volunteers in our sangha:

“I’ve been a member of the KSC sangha for about 16 years. During that time there have been many changes, both at KSC and in me. And with the many, many teachings, classes, retreats, guest teachers, personal consultations and all have come transformation.

Sometimes when we’ve practiced for a long time we think, 'how come I’m not enlightened yet, or at least on some beatific level where all my problems are solved?' That’s why it’s good to look back at who we were ten, twenty years ago.

By that measure I’m a much better person. The teachings have deepened my understanding of the nature of reality; they have expanded my consciousness and, above all, made me a much more compassionate person.

Through the teachings of Lama Yeshe, Lama Pema, and Lama Liza and others, as well as my daily practice, I have been able to sweep out much of the cobwebs of my mind. My love and respect for our teachers knows no bounds. They exemplify wisdom and compassion so beautifully it inspires me, and many others, to practice and learn and grow, knowing that transformation, and eventually enlightenment are indeed possible."

—David Kennedy

“Shortly after my mother's death on 9-12-01 I was looking for a spiritual practice. I found a picture of Lama Lodru in the newspaper announcing a teaching and refuge ceremony he was giving. I immediately knew he was the lama I met in a lucid dream I had in college 30 years previously.

I attended the refuge ceremony at the old KSC center. Everyone was so inviting and I felt connected with everyone (especially Lamas Yeshe and Pema.) I took refuge, began taking classes and attending meditations, and became the lawn care guy. And here I am.

I figure the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. KSC has always been the center of my practice--I never had any choice, nor did I question this center and sangha being the right place and the right people to be with.”

—Daryl Ackley

“The Lamas provide me and our sangha such generous compassion in their skillful teaching and counseling that I want to support them and the sangha with the skills I can offer.

I first began volunteering as the retreat registrar for residential retreats which allowed me to keep close to the benefits of retreat and support others in participating in retreat with the Lamas at Buckhorn Springs.

Currently, I am in my second period as a KSC Board member where I have the honor of assisting the Board in its mission to provide stewardship of the Lamas, the Center and the sangha to ensure the dharma thrives at KSC for the benefit of all beings. Volunteer service at KSC is an important dimension of my practice 'off the cushion' and on it!”

—Cynthia Boersma