From Ukraine, With Love
The beautiful story of compassion and interconnectedness that unfolded between the far-apart countries of Ukraine and Myanmar continues to fill our hearts with warmth and inspiration.
A vipassana meditator in Ukraine had reached out to us with a volition to donate food for Buddhist nuns. The profound impact of such a selfless act of giving, amidst the challenges currently being faced by people in Ukraine, is a testament to the boundless capacity of the human spirit to help others, transcending circumstances, distance and cultural barriers.
Armed with the supplies and good wishes of that generous donor, our local team embarked on a heartfelt journey to the nunnery, which is continues to follow a meditation practice in the Ledi Sayadaw tradition. The journey itself was marked with a sense of purpose and anticipation, knowing that they were carrying the kindness of an open-hearted meditator across continents who herself was living in a challenging and unsafe situation… yet still thinking of others.
A meditation retreat happened to be starting up there. Just before it began, our local team had the honor of making the donation on behalf of the Ukrainian meditator. The entire retreat's meals for that day were offered through that generous contribution.
Following the meal, yogis gathered to take the ten precepts—a set of ethical guidelines that serve as a foundation for their meditative practice. Then, their meditation retreat formally began, kicked off with a rigorous nine-hour meditation period, the yogis sustained by that generous meal offering.
The head of the nunnery, deeply moved by the Ukrainian meditator's gesture, expressed her heartfelt gratitude. She acknowledged the tangible benefit of the donation in ensuring that the yogis were well-fed during their intensive meditation retreat. Beyond the physical sustenance, she emphasized the profound merit that the donor was accruing through their compassionate act. She added that an exchange of generosity and gratitude bridged the distance between Ukraine and Myanmar, two regions that unfortunately know all too well the challenges of conflict.
Our local team leader, who played a pivotal role in facilitating the entire process, also shared his thoughts. In his own words, he said, "I am happy to help, so this meritorious contribution would be able to sponsor meals for the practicing yogis." His commitment and dedication to making this act of giving a reality exemplifies the power of collaboration and collective efforts in making a positive impact on the lives of others.
The ripple effects of this act of kindness will continue to reverberate, not only within the nunnery but also in the hearts of those touched by this heartwarming tale. It serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder that a single act of compassion has the potential to inspire countless others to embrace empathy, kindness, and interconnectedness. And it also reminds us that whatever circumstances we find ourselves in, there is always a way to think of others, and to give to others, whatever the means available at our disposal.
We are deeply moved and honored to have been part of this transformative experience! The meditator in Ukraine, the head of the nunnery, the local team leader, and all those involved have demonstrated that, in times of hardship, the light of compassion can shine even brighter. Their collective actions have strengthened the bonds of humanity, fostering a global community where acts of selflessness and generosity can bridge divides and bring comfort to those facing challenges.
May this tale of kindness inspire others to follow the path of compassion and sow seeds of goodness wherever they may be. Let us continue to cultivate empathy and understanding, for it is through these acts of love and support that we can truly create a world that embraces the inherent interconnectedness of all beings.
