Hi Everyone! I hope you are all making the best of the current situation and are practicing Shanti (Patience) one of the most important of the Six Paramitas, in addition to physical distancing and staying-at -home.
During our April Board of Directors Meeting, held virtually via Zoom video conferencing, we had to make a few very difficult decisions. In order to protect the health and safety of our Sangha, Sensei and greater public, we’ve decided to cancel all in person events at the temple through September 6, 2020. This includes all in person services, Chicken Teriyaki fundraiser and Obon. The Board of Directors will continue to meet regularly (via Zoom) and will provide updates as needed. Please be sure to check the temple’s website for current information regarding our response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
It makes me proud to know that our Sangha is sticking together during these tough times. We have a group led by YABA, ABA and Jun Daiko providing assistance for our senior members; Our temple has been able to donate some greatly needed supplies to people in need in the greater Santa Clara County; and we now have a group of volunteers sewing masks for temple members.
I have one ask of all of you and that is to reach out and call a senior that you know who lives alone. Did you know that over 50% of our Sangha is +70 years old and there are many more seniors out there who are less fortunate than our temple seniors. It’s a tough time for us all, but it’s an extremely tough time for senior citizens who live alone. Please take care of yourselves and others as well!
Trying to live a life of gratitude.
Doug Sawamura, MVBT President