Juliet Smith: Volunteer Profile

 I first heard of Spirit Rock from Tara Brach in 1993.  I was living in D.C. at the time and was part of her sangha.  When I moved to Northern California, I wanted to be on the grounds of Spirit Rock and around the good people there.  I offered my help to any department.  Initially I helped housekeeping and did some office work.  For the past 2 years, I have regularly supported the Family Program and helped the Events team with daylongs and on Monday nights.  I help out as often as I can.  I also love greeting the residential retreatants as they arrive.  For the past few months I have been doing this on a regular basis.  Volunteering is part of my practice. Just being at Spirit Rock is fortunate. I receive so much just by being there—love, fellowship and good company, plus the warm fuzzies that go with that. I find that the teachings are present in the rich personal connections I experience with the staff and fellow volunteers, as well as with the animals and the land. It is a lifeline for me, reminding me of what I am here for in this life —to experience love and offer true, safe and friendly refuge when and where I can. I also enjoy the genuine laughter, affection and joy I often share with the fellow aspirants I meet and work with at Spirit Rock. Volunteering has given me a place to be that reinforces the impression alive within my heart, of all the beneficial aspects of living the Dharma. Spiritual Friends, beauty, safety, focus, love, belonging and everything else offered by the lovely being Buddha himself. She/He continues to offer me in abundance and in all his/her auspicious forms—Quan Yin, Tara and all of the Great Ones. Such good company! I am profoundly grateful. Thank you 'Spirit Rock' for offering me such an exquisite refuge.

Spirit Rock relies on the generosity of our many volunteers. We offer a range of volunteer opportunities from one time projects to ongoing service.  Check our website to find out more about our volunteer program or contact our Volunteer & Community Coordinator, Sally Segerstrom, at volunteering@spiritrock.org.