As I was out on the beach for my walk today, I once again thought to myself “How did I, a girl from Detroit, Michigan end up living here? Wow, I am so fortunate.” I have had to let go of my daily news updates for my own mental health, but I am aware more than ever of how many living beings do not have it so well. Instead of feeling helpless and overwhelmed, when I do see those pictures and hear those stories, I feel a deep compassion and practice gratitude for all that I do have. I hear our teachers tell us that Buddhist practice does make a difference, and I truly believe that. We practice for ourselves and for all beings who are suffering. So many of us are practicing kindness, generosity and love and it does make a difference!
We had a great turnout in June at the half day volunteer retreat with a total of thirty-five people. A report was sent out to all members following the event and some of the tasks that were suggested are underway. Here are a few of the things that are happening or have already been completed. Thanks to Nancy Hilyard and Stephanie Kolm, our library is looking great and much more organized. A new Outreach Committee has been formed that is focused on reaching out to the larger Central Coast community to let more folks know we are here. You can now see the board meetings on the main calendar along with an idea of the agenda for the meetings.
Our newsletter editor, Paula Landis, is in the process of putting together job descriptions for all the many volunteer positions so folks will have a better idea of what each job entails making it easier for new volunteers to sign up. Our Tech at the center has been updated with the expertise of Ron Diamond and improving the audio at the center. All the chairs and rugs at the center have been professionally cleaned. And the membership team will meet next week to work on simplifying the membership renewal process.
We had a rough patch with our website platform, Club Express over the summer for several weeks but thankfully, everything has been fixed and is working well now. I hope that no one is still having difficulty Zooming in from home. If so, please reach out to someone from the IT team so they can help you look into it. Those members are listed on the webpage under “About” and then, “Board of Directors and Committees.” In fact, it’s good to familiarize yourself with this on the website so you know who is serving on what committee and if you need to reach someone.
And lastly, we would love it if you could join us in celebrating our Sangha’s thirty-fifth anniversary coming up on Saturday, September 19, from 1-4:30pm. It should be fun!