|
One of the most beneficial aspects of training and traveling with circles of meditation facilitators in teacher training, (among other venues we find ourselves in), are the conversations, the connections and once in a great while, finding someone who you know is true spiritual friend, a "Kalyanamitta". During the Summer of 2018, at the 4th annual Refuge Recovery Conference in Los Angeles, Rachael and I, along with our mates sat down for lunch after the last day of the event. We had known OF each other before this time but in the few hours we chopped it up around the table, it was as if we'd found a lost sibling. Rachael is DRIVEN! Her love for the Dharma and enthusiasm in providing pathways is admirable. Co-founder of Rebel Saints Meditation Society in Seattle and assisting Noah Levine and Refuge Recovery hold residential retreats as of late puts her in Bodhisattva status. In September, I was invited to lead an evening and half-day retreat for Rebel Saints and had a ball. The best part, in my opinion was a spontaneous co-teaching with Rachael on the following Sunday. It wasn't until October that SoMa Dharma was born and soon as it was, of course I asked if we could return the favor and host her in our new home… and as timing would have it, enjoy a Thanksgiving weekend together as well. The room lights up when Rachael walks in and this night was no exception for the large turnout we had of San Franciscans looking to see what Seattle had to bring! No problem for this dedicated practitioner. Rachael can talk the talk because she walks the walk and holds little reservation about her passion and wise view. Almost jarring, raw and real perspectives and illustrative lecturing on topics that almost don’t “feel safe”. ‘That’s the whole idea, here folks!’ as Rachael might put it. ‘Let’s be real and be with what really is’ She has a way of pulling the shroud off believing you are entitled to safety in this world by armoring up with loving kindness, equanimity and forgiveness – for yourself first! It’s a powerful message and it landed right in the middle of this room with laughter and levity. Rachael’s experience facilitating a group shines through in how gracefully she engages everyone without pressuring anyone. Using an ancient council method, the entire group had a chance to put their own authentic feeling and voice into the experience. Honestly, I felt proud to be able to house her talent and even more so to be called her friend and colleague. The Sangha was drawn to her after the sit for questions and conversation and Rachael had patient and undivided attention for each. I’m excited to see and hope to be with Rachael as she continues to blaze her path. If ever in the Seattle area – you must stop by and sit with Rebel Saints or at very least, visit her store Vajra on Tenth. Thank you Rachael and SoMa Dharmilitia!
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |