Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Endings

On Saturday I received my certificate from the chaplaincy training program at the New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care. It was a very emotional experience for me, since our group had formed a unique bond over the past 10 months. Knowing them and being in their company taught me about kindness, authenticity, and how to give selflessly.

I thought I knew about all of these things when I started but I was wrong.

They all gave me so much without even realizing it, and it was a privilege to be in their company. I am missing them already.

6 comments:

Barry said...

Sincere congratulations! How will you use this wonderful gift?

Ven. Lawrence Dō'an Grecco said...

Thank you-

I've just finished up my work at the hospice so I'm going to take the next few weeks to decide if I want to volunteer at a hospital or somewhere else. I'm going on a 5 day retreat on June 28 so I'll probably wait until I'm back to make a decision.

Barry said...

Thank you for your wonderful commitment!

Wonji Dharma said...

Lawrence,

Just know that the bonds and relationships you created are just beginning and will flower and bear fruit over the years. You haven't lost any of them, your paths will continually cross for the rest of your life. This is the way of the Dharma.

Anonymous said...

Warmest congratulations, Lawrence!

Cindy said...

Congratulations:)) I stumbled to your page and just wanted to say I really enjoy it. I've been exploring Buddhism for a while now and I'm finally feeling "part of it." Congrats again!