A New Book About GivingFor many, many years I had considered writing a book about the practice of alms collection or, more precisely, about encounters that happen during the practice of alms collection. Then, about two years ago, I found the time and the space, and the words began to flow. Now the results of that effort have arrived, in the form of a new book. It’s titled, “Gifts Greater Than the Oceans: Benefits of the Buddhist Practice of Giving.” The book is for free distribution. I want to share these stories, to make them accessible to anyone with an interest in this traditional way of practice, as it’s done in both the Mahayana and Theravada traditions. The full book has been posted as a PDF on the Dassanāya Buddhist Community website and is available in hard copy by request. We are printing a limited number, so please be sure to get your requests in soon. And look for an announcement on my Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook accounts of a book reading event before year-end. I’ll give a brief interview and read from the book, and then there will be time for questions. A Vihara Runs On KindnessAs mentioned in the last email, I have moved into the new vihara at the start of November. This place is such a refuge for me, and many folks have contributed their time and resources to prepare it for students and visitors in the coming year. Experiencing their giving day in and day out, I am humbled and grateful for the many kindnesses that make it possible to create a place that will support an entire community. In particular, I hope that lay and monastic guests will come to visit and to practice together. This is a much needed support for the wide community that is blossoming beautifully. Visits will begin in mid-January for folks who are fully vaccinated. Contact me by replying to this email if you would like to come. The physical address of the vihara is now posted on the support page of the website, as is information on how to offer a meal in person or send meal dana using an online food delivery service. There are also suggestions for what to give, in response to folks who have asked what might be helpful at this time. Many thanks to everyone who has contributed their time, financial resources, and gifts of all sorts. Anumodana! I’m celebrating the good you are doing. Know that while I am preparing for in person events and retreats, I keep you in my heart, and I hope that you feel uplifted by the great, wide community of the Buddha. With metta and gratitude,
Ayya Dhammadīpā
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