External site: DharmaRefuge.com.
What is Dharma Refuge
The short, logistical answer is that it’s a 100% volunteer-run, non-profit meditation community here in Rochester, NY.
I originally them them at the beginning of my own journey when having started my own meditation practice, I sought others to see if I was “doing it right.” I showed up for the meditation, but I stayed for the teachings.
Bridging East and West
What I personally love about Dharma Refuge, and why I’m currently serving as the board president, is how it strikes a balance. It is rooted in ancient Eastern wisdom (specifically Tibetan Buddhism), but it is presented in a way that is highly accessible and welcoming to an average Westerner navigating a modern, turbulent world.
Our members come from all walks of life. While we all meditate together, many members actively practice other faiths, or no faith at all.
The Three Jewels
In Buddhism, there is a concept called the “Three Jewels.” I think it perfectly describes what Dharma Refuge brings to our local community:
- The Buddha (The Teacher): Not just the historical figure (i.e. “the original Buddha”), but any living teachers who pass down the wisdom.
- The Dharma (The Teachings): The wisdom and teachings that have been developed and passed down from teacher to teacher for the last ~2,500 years.
- The Sangha (The Community): The people. This is a place to practice, support one another, and not feel like you have to figure it all out alone.
If you are local to Rochester or just curious to see what we are up to, you can check out the official website here: DharmaRefuge.com.