A New Chapter for Aloka Vihara Nuns and Lay Community
May 7, 2011 marked an auspicious new chapter for the Aloka Vihara...
Forty supporters gathered to celebrate the sisters' intention to take full bhikkhuni ordination on October 17 of this year and to then begin to create a training monastery for women in the Theravadan Buddhist tradition. The day was filled with joy, poems, and cards of well wishes.
The lay supporters offered an abundant and caring meal as well as financial support for the vihara. A touch of California was present in the ceremonies organized by the lay supporters! California wildflower seeds were scattered and a native bush was planted, symbols of life and impermanence and non-attachment to the future of how things unfold. The bush will not go with us when the vihara moves to a more permanent location, but is rather an investment in where we are, with the idea that we touch down here for now and leave behind something when we move on.
Many readings of the day resonated, but for now, one that touched our hearts was a poem by John O'Donohoe, For a New Beginning (read poem). The day and poetic offerings ranged from poignant to joyful. If you were not able to come and would like to send cards, poems or dana, please send these directly to:
The Aloka Vihara
1632 48th Avenue
San Francisco, CA
94122
Your cards and poems will be added to the wonderful binder of inspiration that was presented to the sisters at the completion of the ceremonies. Your heartfelt support is deeply appreciated, and especially so at this time of transition.
Jill Boone
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