Dear Friends,
It was a privilege and a pleasure to join so many of you on Saturday for Diamond Light’s re-opening celebration.
Before the party, Geshe Tsultrim performed a wonderful traditional Tibetan Buddhist blessing ceremony of the beautiful Gompa (meditation hall) we’ve created together in Room 14 with only a few people in attendance. As he was chanting, reciting mantras, and making offerings to all of the Buddha images, I was struck by the shimmering, iridescent sacred beauty of the center. And I felt the strong presence of all you who’ve come through the doors, who’ve shared your wise hearts and minds, inspiring each other and creating a beloved community.
Diamond Light was founded on this understanding of the power of spiritual community, or sangha. So it was powerful and joyous to celebrate together in person — and more of you showed up than expected, how wonderful! We caught up with friends and made new ones – all in a COVID safe way. I gave a short talk on Buddha’s saying to Ananda: “Spiritual friendship, spiritual companionship, spiritual camaraderie is actually the whole of the holy life.” We entered dyads to share what is alive for us now in our hearts. And, filled with the joy of being together again, we lingered for a couple of hours past the allotted time.
A special thank-you to Lauren and Heather who worked so hard to make this dharma party happen, joined by Cheryl. And for keeping us connected over zoom during the pandemic, with help from Mojo and David and probably many more of you whom I don’t know about. Countless!
Indeed, thank you to you all. I deeply value our sangha. Through getting to know our friends who delight in the Buddha’s teaching, we create ever-deepening connections and establish valuable support systems. It is spiritual community, spiritual friendship, that truly holds our spiritual life together. Whether you’ve been part of Diamond Light for years, or simply for a single course, your presence and commitment to spiritual values have brought something beautiful, encouraging, and significant into the world. What a great blessing in the midst of this painful social, environmental and political turmoil… like a soothing drink of cool, sweet water from a pure, deep well.
Diamond Light began offering hybrid courses last month, so you can now participate at the center and/or on Zoom. Check out our schedule for upcoming classes.
With Big Love,
Amie Diller, Spiritual Director