Silent Simplicity of Summer

Charlie Byron, lived and worked in Boston as an analyst and manager at a financial information firm. He started practicing meditation in 1992 and over time became a student of Shambhala, then a Buddhist. In 2000 he began teaching programs in Boston, initially Shambhala Training and later Buddhist programs and introductory talks. Later, he moved with his husband to Vermont and began teaching at Karmệ Chöling, including at their longer residential programs. In recent times, Charlie has pursued interests including daily compassion practice for Ukraine, Buddhist and secular book groups, travel, helping start a community-supported cafe, gardening, and continued Shambhala teaching.

Donna Williams has taught in the Shambhala tradition for many years. Presently she is developing a Contemplative Ecology program which compliments her appreciation and enjoyment of the forests and mountains of her home in Vermont. For the past 12 years she has spent time in Santiago and Copiapo, Chile teaching and staffing programs. Her interests include gardening and growing native dye plants and practicing Shibori (a Japanese inspired textile art). Her 3 grown children live in the West and she hopes to spend more time “out” there.

Suzanne Trahey is a dedicated practitioner and student of Buddhism, with over 15 years of devoted study. She has imparted her wisdom through teaching a diverse array of classes and programs, enriching the lives of many. Residing in the town of Barre, Vermont, Suzanne has seamlessly woven her spiritual insights into her professional life. Suzanne is the Senior Manager of Organizational Learning at the Vermont Foodbank, fostering mindfulness and authentic confidence among her colleagues and community.

Suzanne’s passion extends beyond her work; she finds solace and joy in playing in sacred nature, where the whispers of the wind and the rustle of leaves speak to her soul. Her explorations of relationships and connections with others are not just pastimes but integral parts of her favorite ways of being. Suzanne’s journey is one of continuous growth, guided by the principles of Buddhism and her unwavering commitment to nurturing the spirit of leadership and compassion in herself and those around her.