How We Heal Faster Than the Harm Being Done

In a world that is both “glorious and wretched”, how do we remain unshakeable in our commitment to love, justice, and compassion? How do we heal ourselves and our communities in the face of harm and division?

These are the questions that guide the work of EBMC and our incredible teachers. Today, we’re honored to share a powerful reflection from Dr. Renato Almanzor, Leadership Board (LSangha) Chair and community teacher at EBMC.

In this short video below Renato offers how we can, “heal at a faster rate than the harm being done.”

Renato’s words remind us that healing is not passive—it is an active, intentional practice of awareness, acceptance, and skillful effort. At EBMC, we are committed to creating a sanctuary where this healing can flourish, a space where all are welcome to practice, grow, and find refuge.

But we can’t do this work alone.

This month, we’re aiming to welcome 30 new recurring donors or inspire current donors to increase their monthly contributions.

Your ongoing support ensures that EBMC can continue to offer radical inclusivity, compassionate teachings, and a home for collective liberation.

Will you join us in this commitment?

Together, we can build a world rooted in love, justice, and liberation.

Tap here to increase your monthly donation.

Tap here to become a monthly donor.

Let’s make EBMC “Unshakable” in 2025 – Become a Friend today!

Unshakable: Rooted in Strength for Liberation

In uncertain times, when fear, division, and oppression seek to shake our resolve, we return to the wisdom of the Buddha. As the story goes, on the night of his awakening, Mara—the embodiment of doubt, fear, and illusion—brought forth his most powerful deceptions to dissuade the Buddha from his path. Yet, the Buddha remained unmoved. With one hand touching the earth, he called upon the great truth of interconnection, declaring his right to be here, to take up space, and to awaken. And Mara’s illusions dissolved.

Like the Buddha, EBMC remains steadfast in the face of rising forces that seek to divide, suppress, and silence. In a world where fascism and oligarchy threaten our collective liberation, we remain unshakable in our commitment to love, justice, and community.

🌀 We are here. We are not going anywhere.
🌀 We are a refuge of resilience, a home for healing, a movement for liberation.
🌀 And we need you to join us.

By becoming a monthly recurring donor, you help sustain EBMC as a sanctuary for spiritual health, safety, and collective care. Your support ensures that our radically inclusive, socially engaged Buddhist community continues to thrive, offering space for all who seek refuge in wisdom and compassion.

Together, we are unshakable.
Together, we are rooted in strength for liberation.

🔗 Join us in this commitment. Become a Friend of EBMC today!

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Photo by Vadym Lebedych on Unsplash

Agreements for Multicultural Interactions

Agreements for Multicultural Interactions at EBMC 

Created by  © VISIONS

Try It On: Be willing to “try on” new ideas, or ways of doing things that might not be what you prefer or are familiar with.

Practice Self Focus: Attend to and speak about your own experiences and responses. Do not speak for a whole group or express assumptions about the experience of others.

Understand The Difference Between Intent & Impact: Try to understand and acknowledge impact. Denying the impact of something said by focusing on intent is often more destructive than the initial interaction.

Practice “Both / And”: When speaking, substitute “and” for “but.” This practice acknowledges and honors multiple realities.

Refrain From Blaming Or Shaming Self & Others: Practice giving skillful feedback.

Move Up / Move Back: Encourage full participation by all present. Take note of who is speaking and who is not. If you tend to speak often, consider “moving back” and vice versa.

Practice Mindful Listening: Try to avoid planning what you’ll say as you listen to others. Be willing to be surprised, to learn something new. Listen with your whole self.

Confidentiality: Take home learnings, but don’t identify anyone other than yourself, now or later. If you want to follow up with anyone regarding something they said during a session, ask first and respect their wishes.

Right To Pass: You can say “I pass” if you don’t wish to speak.

 

To download a PDF Version of the Agreements for Multicultural Interactions, please click here

Got a question about EBMC? Input? For the EBMC Directory, click HERE.

I Vow Not to Burn Out

EBMC Core Teacher Mushim Patricia Ikeda writes in the August issue of Lion’s Roar magazine about the “Great Vow for Mindful Activists”

Aware of suffering and injustice, I, _________, am working to create a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world. I promise, for the benefit of all, to practice self-care, mindfulness, healing, and joy. I vow to not burn out.

Image: “Superman Buddha, Force Within” by Elisa Insua.