Devanagari: दान is a Sanskrit and Pali word that connotes the virtue of generosity and charity. In Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism, Dāna is the practice of cultivating generosity.
The idea of Dāna has resonated with me over time and has continued to find meaning in my life.
Dāna is not far from the Jewish practice of Tzedakah, which I grew up with. On the surface level, Tzedakah is about giving charitable contributions. On a deeper level it is about righteous behavior and it is a term often associated with “justice”.
In Jewish thought and tradition, support for those in need is not a matter of “charity” — a term that implies generosity beyond what may be expected — Tzedakah is something that is woven right into our moral code.
Leslie, who I have not seen for twenty some years, shared my GFM with our Tamakwa Family. Her willingness to love with an open heart gave this campaign a jump and provided me with some much-needed motivation.
This experience has felt so personal and there have been times that I have felt isolated and alone.
I am not alone in my happiness or my challenges. This week throughout California there have been lost lives, homes, and hundreds of thousands of acres burned. I feel a bit selfish and guilty for expressing my troubles.
Even while I have my own hardships I am not alone. Sadly suffering exists throughout our world. Despite my challenges I will continue to make offerings to others. I will always make an effort to offer compassion and empathy. All beings desire and deserve freedom from pain. We can help each other. It can take the littlest gesture to lift a friend, or stranger in need.
Yoga is a practice of Union. Union with ourselves and also with our communities and the world at large. Yesterday one of my yoga teachers reminded me that giving thanks is an offering of freedom.
So with all this in mind, I say thank you to everyone who has made space for me. I appreciate you very much!
Thanks for reading sweet friends.
If you are so inclined, any support, or sharing this would be welcomed with Love. https://www.gofundme.com/leah-rosenthal
