Won Buddhism of Manhattan

When I originally gave this title to Rev. Minju she told me that she loved this song. I laughed and thought how funny it was that out of the top of my head I had picked this title for my article. Maybe I didn't do it subconsciously because I think allot of the Temple and how wonderful it feels being a part of it. This article is about the past and the present.I had been married to a jewish man and when he passed away I was left alone and lonely..I have a friend named Daisy who is a Won Buddhist.

I'll never forget how she looked at me straight in the face and said "You need to talk to your Reverend". It was at this moment that I realized that I had no one to talk to. I was raised catholic and had not been to a church for many years, my husband and I attended a re-formed Jewish Temple during the years we were married. But I never felt as though I was part of this religion either...

Daisy listened to me and asked if I would consider meeting with her Reverend. I said yes...She picked up the phone and called Rev. Lee made an appointment and in less then an hour I was sitting in the living-room of this beautiful house.

We talked and drank tea for what seemed like a long time. I felt so peaceful and loved in this home. Rev. Lee took me upstairs with Daisy and the three of us meditated for a long time. After our meditation we all went down stairs and Rev. Lee invited me to come back and be a part of a service, giving me the days and time of service... When I left the Temple I felt like a huge weight had been lifted from my heart...

I came back several times to Sunday service, meeting other people that were also learning about the teachings of Sotaesan...For 6 or 7 months I came to the Temple every Sunday...Talked to Rev. Lee and became part of a spiritual community...

One day Rev. Lee asked me if I felt that I was ready to receive my Dharma name. I searched inside into my heart during my meditation and knew it was time to make a commitment to my practice and to myself. The Temple was small at this time, we were only seven members. But we were all united in the spirit of community. In the spirit of faith and love for this Temple. And so I along with the 6 others were blessed as we all joined to celebrate our new spiritual selves.

The first Authentication of Dharma ceremony came to be with Rev. Lee leading the service. It was for me the beginning of a journey into a spiritual life of meditation and prayer that has served me in times of troubles. It's been 17 years since that first Bupinjul celebration and since then many others have received their Dharma names.

I have spoken at several Bupinjul ceremonies and my meditating practice has become a part of my everyday life. I have finally found a home.

October, 2007