BPF | Making a Dent, a BASE Story

On my walk to the Tom Waddell Clinic [a center for the homeless in San Francisco], I mindlessly browse the windows of the hip art galleries and clothing stores of Hayes Valley. Finally I remember to stop and say: OK, why am I doing this? If it is just to be "helpful" then I am missing the point. I need to remember the context. I am doing this in order not to let suffering out of my sight. Thich Nhat Hanh says, "Do not avoid contact with suffering or close your eyes before suffering. Do not lose awareness of the existence of suffering in the life of the world." The more I can see suffering, in myself, in others, the more I can open to the possibility of freedom from suffering.

As I near the clinic I remind myself to set my intention: May this day of work be the cause and condition for the liberation of myself and all beings. May I be present. May my ego be removed from what I am doing. May I non-judgmentally notice the mindstates that arise.