The practice of generosity is two-fold: it connects us both to others and to ourselves. Giving creates a relationship between the giver and the receiver. It helps us to learn about the nature of relationships. Through the practice of generosity, we begin to see where we hold back and where we feel fear.
Of course, generosity is not just about giving money or material things. We can be generous with our time, our kindness, and our receptivity. Because giving involves letting go, it develops our capacity to relinquish clinging. It also helps us to develop qualities of the heart such as kindness, compassion, and warmth.
A Range of Volunteer Opportunities
All of us have undoubtedly been the recipients of care at some point in our lives, and all of have provided care. To be engaged with others in a caring way is an important part of being human. Caring is actually good for our emotional and physical health and is conducive to harmonious societies. If you want to learn more about deepening friendship within our Valley Insight community, please contact us and let us know.
Whatever you do, take time to feel the effects of giving in your mind and heart. Notice how it feels to be anonymous in your giving and notice how it feels to be named. There isn’t a right way in this respect. Just keep noticing intention and how it feels in the heart.
We offer many opportunities to get involved. Dogen said, “When you walk in the mist you get wet.” Feel the moisture!
- Come to a sitting group or retreat and join us in “practicing peace.”
- Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletters for information and inspiration on living a wakeful, compassionate life.
- Serve on our Board of Directors.
- Join our Support Sangha to assist members who are in a transitional stage of healing.
- Help with organizational details such as maintaining a mailing list or assisting with organizing events.
- Support our teachers financially in their work of teaching, writing and guiding the organization.
- Support the prison sangha with a contribution ear-marked to help pay for gas used by the volunteers who make the monthly drive to Berlin, New Hampshire (2.5 hours each way).
- Facilitate a discussion about practice, your favorite Dharma book, or another topic.
- Be creative! Suggest another way in which you can give! Email us with your idea.