
Volunteer Appreciation for Lotus
Since moving to Portland in 2016, Lotus has become a vibrant and dedicated member of the KCC community. After searching for a spiritual home rooted in Tibetan Buddhism, she found KCC and knew it was the right fit. Her first urban retreat on Tonglen, with Zopa as one of the teachers, deepened her connection. “My connection with Zopa solidified my connection to KCC,” she shares.
Lotus is drawn to Buddhism because “it makes sense to me in a way that nothing else ever has.” Raised Catholic, she continued attending church into early adulthood, yet found herself searching for something that resonated more deeply. Encountering the Dharma felt like “a lightning strike.” Listening to teachings from the Dalai Lama affirmed her path. “I know I can bring problems and questions to my practice and see them more clearly,” she says.
Her commitment to practice naturally flows into service. Lotus has volunteered in many roles—welcoming guests at registration during teacher visits, serving on the future planning committee with the board, facilitating the children’s program for a couple of years, maintaining the garden/land, and supporting fundraising events like Blooming Lotus and Bingo.
Cynthia Irvine notes that Lotus took on the children’s program “not because she had free time, but rather because she saw an unmet need and she filled it.” Her leadership with the kids was respectful and playful, guided by them rather than directed at them. Linda B, who co-hosted the Blooming Lotus Vajriety Show and Bingo with her, describes Lotus as “so much fun” and “a bright light in the world,” always advocating for diversity, inclusion, and social justice.
Beyond KCC, Lotus works full time supporting families that have children with developmental disabilities—another reflection of her compassionate action. As someone who acts so selflessly, Cynthia shares, “Lotus may not always appear to need support—but she does appreciate it. “She also mentioned “Lotus gives me hope for the future.”
We are deeply grateful for Lotus’ joyful spirit, thoughtful practice, her advocacy, and unwavering dedication to others. Thank you, Lotus!
Article Courtesy of Makiko Oki
