Friday

Sangha Mobilizing to Support Those Displaced by Boulder Fire

Courtesy of Chase Weatherfield Bauer, who took this photograph of the remains of his parent's house.

Many people have lost their homes in the fire, including a few members of the Shambhala sangha. Thousands have been evacuated and as the flames come close to threatening the town itself, even more people are expected to leave their homes and belongings.

This is a time to gather local and international support. The Boulder Shambhala Center is collecting a list of resources from the local sangha, including places for people and their pets to stay until they are able to return home or begin to build a new life. Marpa House is welcoming as many displaced sangha as they can accommodate and the Desung arm of the Dorje Kasung has been in touch with people personally to offer support.

Initial planning stages are underway for an event intended to hold space for people who are struggling throughout the city, regardless of their membership status or involvement in Buddhism.

For the international community, tonglen and compassion practices are encouraged, as natural disasters provide a potent time to contemplate the truth of impermanence.

Stay tuned for more articles from the Shambhala Times.