As our practice deepens and we cultivate loving-kindness, our ability to be increasingly compassionate towards self and others grows. This opening of the heart allows us to sense the interconnectedness we have with all beings and to become more fully present for the suffering we encounter. In the blossoming of such awareness, actually taking action to relieve that suffering leads to a further maturation of our wisdom.
In merging our compassionate intent with our day-to-day activities, the specific actions we take can come in many forms such as lending a helping hand, providing a morsel of food, a smile, shoulder to lean on, or shelter from harm. Simple or extensive, whatever supportive activity we engage in has the potential to promote peace and love while enriching our own lives and the lives of others. Everyone benefits – the recipient, the giver, the Sangha, the community, the world.
With this in mind, some of our Sangha members are engaged in specific compassionate action within the community and they wish to share those opportunities with others. The links below will take you to a brief explanation of these activities and include contact information. You are invited to consider joining these Sangha members in their efforts and you are also welcome to get in touch with them and/or contact the organization(s) directly.
Hospice of the Comforter
“Providing support for patients and their families has introduced many moments of joy and allows for spiritual growth grounded in compassion.“
Tommy Harrison |
Great Oaks Village
“Working with the 16-year-old girl I mentor is the glue of my spiritual practice. In giving of myself to her, I see that loving-kindness coming back to me over and over again.”
Suzi Edwards |
Food Bank
“I am inspired by the generosity of other Sangha members as I take donated food to Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida bimonthly. It’s a good feeling to know that our contributions assist not only locally but those in need when disasters such as hurricanes strike the Southeast region.”
Cynthia Johnson |
Orlando Regional Medical Center
“You just show up, sit in a chair, and receive a story. The stories are so varied: funny and sad and wise and mundane. I head home always grateful to open up to the news of the here-and-now and the then-and-there from the men and women of the 7,8, and 9th floors of Orlando Regional Medical Center..”
Sharon Ghamari-Tabrizi |
Shepherd’s Hope
“To me as a nurse, Shepherd’s Hope is community sponsored medical care as it is meant to be. What a joy to help people in this way.”
Cynthia Johnson |
|
|
