A sangha, or Buddhist meditation community, is essentially a family away from home. Unconditional acceptance, listening, caring, and kindness prevail within the sangha. Yes, a sangha can have its share of drama, but it's difficult to be petty when you're studying the inspirational dharma (Buddhist teachings).
About two weeks ago, Open Door lost one of its dearest members, Larry Murdock. We were wrapping up Melanie's Beginners Meditation class when she received the upsetting news from Larry's daughter. We were shocked that a man as fit and active as Larry could suddenly collapse and pass away. One of our founding sangha members had died.
The next few days were consumed with planning Larry's memorial service. His family requested that it be held at Open Door, and Melanie was happy to officiate. Food, program, speaking, singing, and photos were all delegated to eager volunteers, pleased to participate in such a great man's final acknowledgement.
On the day of the service, even more members pitched in toward various tasks: floral arrangement, locating additional chairs, cleaning floors, and emptying the trashcans. Work that is sometimes delegated to hired help was lovingly performed with one end goal in mind: honoring Larry's memory. Interestingly, Larry would have been the sangha member to perform those duties and more, without request.
In the subsequent weeks, we will each discover a new role in the sangha, as we absorb Larry's former duties. Andrew will assemble the lectern, Lynette will teach Larry's yin class, Diane will greet new people as they enter the center, and Melanie will continue her leadership. Larry's photo will perch atop the library bookshelf that he drilled into the wall, sending us approval and guidance as we navigate the sangha's "new normal."
On a personal note, thanks to Larry for encouraging me to try yin yoga, after observing that my flexibility could improve. In his words, "If you do the pose on the right side, you must do it on the left." After all, Larry was master of the balanced existence.
About two weeks ago, Open Door lost one of its dearest members, Larry Murdock. We were wrapping up Melanie's Beginners Meditation class when she received the upsetting news from Larry's daughter. We were shocked that a man as fit and active as Larry could suddenly collapse and pass away. One of our founding sangha members had died.
The next few days were consumed with planning Larry's memorial service. His family requested that it be held at Open Door, and Melanie was happy to officiate. Food, program, speaking, singing, and photos were all delegated to eager volunteers, pleased to participate in such a great man's final acknowledgement.
On the day of the service, even more members pitched in toward various tasks: floral arrangement, locating additional chairs, cleaning floors, and emptying the trashcans. Work that is sometimes delegated to hired help was lovingly performed with one end goal in mind: honoring Larry's memory. Interestingly, Larry would have been the sangha member to perform those duties and more, without request.
In the subsequent weeks, we will each discover a new role in the sangha, as we absorb Larry's former duties. Andrew will assemble the lectern, Lynette will teach Larry's yin class, Diane will greet new people as they enter the center, and Melanie will continue her leadership. Larry's photo will perch atop the library bookshelf that he drilled into the wall, sending us approval and guidance as we navigate the sangha's "new normal."
On a personal note, thanks to Larry for encouraging me to try yin yoga, after observing that my flexibility could improve. In his words, "If you do the pose on the right side, you must do it on the left." After all, Larry was master of the balanced existence.
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| Peaceful Larry in his meditation posture. |
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| Playing around in asana class. I'm so grateful to have taught many classes that Larry attended. Afterwards, he always complimented or encouraged my teaching in some way. |
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| Larry's last Sunday sitting ~ January 10, 2016. We documented our intentions for the year. |
Beautifully said.. Thank you for sharing your wise reflection for we were all blessed to have had the honor of being in community with Larry and you dear Soendae.
ReplyDeleteWe sure have a blessed community! <3
DeleteThis is so nice of you to write up. I enjoyed reading it and look forward to continued contribution to Open Door community. Love.
ReplyDeleteThanks for reading, Carmen! <3
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