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What do you do to support Shantideva Center?

I facilitate the Buddhism in a Nutshell introductory course. I also donate to Shantideva Center, help set up when I’m at the gompa, and suggest program ideas

What do you do professionally and/or as a hobby?

I’m a composer. I’m also a hearing health advocate

Why do you offer service?

It has honestly never occurred to me to ask why! I guess the answer is that it is so much fun, and a great honor, to participate in the teaching of dharma. For Buddhists, our practice consists of joyful effort while being of benefit to others. So naturally, to introduce others to the Buddhadharma is such a pleasure — and it helps me become better at my own practice 🙂

What do you find most rewarding about your role?

I love the opportunity to meet new people in the class and hear about their lives. It is also tremendously rewarding to work on the course material for Buddhism in a Nutshell and learn more about the amazing ideas and practice the Buddha taught.

How has Shantideva Center benefited your life?

A month after I saw the Dalai Lama in NYC, I knew that I wanted to learn more about Buddhist philosophy and practice. But where? I did a lot of research and after going to several talks at Shantideva Center and meeting so many wonderful people, I decided to take the Discovering Buddhism course. The teacher, Gus Cutz, was brilliant, knowledgeable, and a model of empathy. I quickly made friends with my classmates and felt a deep sense of community. As my practice deepened from study and meditation at Shantideva Center, my ability to act with more awareness in my relationships with others deepened, and my understanding of how to be of more benefit to others has become clearer. Community and an enhance ability to serve not just that community but all others — there aren’t enough petabytes on the internet to describe how rewarding that is!

What are other volunteers like at Shantideva Center?

Everyone is different, and I love them all. There are professionals and working class volunteers, there are young people and old people. They are a great bunch!

Is volunteering for Shantideva Center flexible to your needs?

Yes! I just wish I had more time!!