An incredible touching story from one of our community members, sister Veena, linked with last week's passage at Awakin Oakland:

Now, we sit after meditation and the circle of sharing in Casa de Paz, nearly ten years later. In soft, steady words John weaves me a poetic tapestry of how it is he has come to be sitting next to me here in Fruitvale.  Again, moved by the passion and will of those seeking change through Occupy Oakland and the Port Protests, John returned to Oakland after transitioning from his work.  He's on a pilgrimage of sorts, discerning a calling to become a Buddhist monk.  His journey led him to the Abhayagiri Monastery in California where he learned about Casa de Paz.

So, with a twinkle of curiosity and gratitude in his eye he joins us for a sit and sharing.  Nearly ten years ago, he filled the streets with protest and was met with Oakland Police Department and rubber bullets.  He shows me the scars on his hand, disfigured fingers, and tells me how a settlement was made.  

He tenderly probes asking about the community, how things work, what we do and what if someone wanted to make a donation?  I respond about the nature of the gift-economy and what some of our needs are. He says he's moved by what we are doing here and always wanted to give the money back. He never considered the settlement money his, he knew it was the people of Oakland's money and he wants the people of Oakland to have it.

We continue to chat easily, words flowing steadily like a deep fed stream. 

A bell rings, voices rise in waves, its time to join our friends downstairs for our vegan dinner.  I tell John it would be a great to introduce him to Annie, a founder of the Canticle Farm.

I'm awed by our simple and deep connection and grateful for the glimmer in his eyes as he generously shares his story.  I've received a gift of connection and the people of Oakland have received the gift of John's call to act, his courage to listen and willingness to know...