Recently, I medically retired from the military and came to Karmê Chöling. I served in both the Marine Corps (active duty) and the Navy Reserve. For my entire military career, we have been at war in Iraq and Afghanistan. And let me tell you, war is disorder, groundless, violent, chaotic, and it changes you forever.
I came to KCL in Vermont to connect with warriors – a different kind of warrior. Warriors who believe in basic goodness and the sacred path. These people are authentic, altruistic, genuine, empathetic, sincere, and loyal. In many ways, they restore my faith in humanity and have helped me recognize my own sanity. In other words, the Shambhala teachings have helped me keep my head on a swivel.
No doubt, I struggle with survivor’s guilt and PTSD. I miss the intoxicating feeling training for war, being at war, deployments, and coming home. However, now I am truly home and in a great place to develop my mind and practice. KCL is teaching me so much about the transformational power of being connected to a community and healing therein. It’s true -- the Buddha is the doctor and great healer. The Dharma is the medicine and the Sangha is the hospital. I consider myself extremely fortunate to be on this journey to discover the precious Awakened Mind.
“Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is just show up.” Brené Brown
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