Sangha of Auspicious Companions

Doctors in Montreal Can Now Prescribe Their Patients Tickets to the Orchestra

A new program in Canada called social prescribing allows doctors to prescribe free tickets to the symphony. They may also prescribe other things “that are normally outside the scope of medicine, but can have tremendous impact on people’s health and well-being — like art, nature or community activities.” Many studies provide evidence-based data that show music releases endorphins, triggers dopamine, and lowers levels of cortisol reducing stress and anxiety, providing pain relief, and improving cognitive function. As opposed to just being told, people may be more likely to listen to physicians about the benefits and follow through. First, physicians must listen to the patient to prescribe what makes sense for them. “You want a space where you do feel like you matter and people have time for you and really listen.”

Be The Change

Give yourself a social prescription to enjoy a concert or other artistic venue.

Facing Everything: Conversation with Gangaji

What does it mean to face everything? Dive into a conversation where author, healer, teacher, seeker, activist Gangaji, 83, unveils her journey through heartbreak and discovery, revealing that true spiritual awakening involves embracing every emotion, even the stormiest ones. “To face everything is to be willing to acknowledge that whatever arises can be met,” she points out, inviting us to let go of resistance and meet life’s challenges head-on. Her powerful realization? Love remains untouched, even amidst despair. It’s not about avoiding hurt but discovering the untouched love and silence beyond it. Her path of raw authenticity navigates how chaos can transform into profound clarity.

Be The Change

Take a moment today to sit quietly with an emotion you typically avoid. Instead of pushing it away, welcome it, and observe how you can learn from it, revealing a silent love underneath. To soak in more inspiration, tune into a live conversation with Gangaji this weekend!

A Cinema of Inclusion Shines Bright

In the state of Connecticut, one theater is shattering societal norms by offering a venue to those who often go unnoticed. Founded by Valerie Jensen, this extraordinary movie theater employs people with disabilities, known as ‘Prospects’, and celebrates their unique talents. Inspired by her sister with Down syndrome, Valerie’s dream of changing perceptions has come alive with over 300 Prospects finding purpose and pride in their work. Stephanie Schultz, who has a severe brain injury, tearfully affirms, “The fact that I feel useful and able and appreciated… it’s a really special place.” Since its inception, Prospector Theater has sold over a million tickets and created a sense of belonging that shines beyond the screen.

Be The Change

Make an extra effort today to foster a culture of belonging in your workplace, school, or community. Or, support an inclusive business that empowers individuals with disabilities.

Paris Agreement: a Decade Later

The Paris Agreement, a 2015 accord that altered the trajectory of climate politics, crosses its 10th anniversary with notable strides in clean energy, policy, and emissions. A decade ago, the forecast was dire, projecting a rise to 4°C by 2100, but today we’re on a path closer to 2.6°C, thanks to a surge in clean energy deployment and stronger policies. The world has seen solar and wind energy smash expectations, and electric vehicles are now ahead of past forecasts. If there’s one lesson here, it’s that with collaboration, determination, so much is possible. As the 30th UN climate meeting, COP30, approaches, the challenge remains to consolidate this momentum, ensuring benefits reach communities worldwide. While there is still much more work to be done, it’s important to acknowledge and celebrate that the clean-energy transition is currently more advanced than analysts projected a decade ago.

Be The Change

Support local clean energy initiatives, or do one small act today that reduces your energy use, such as opting to bike, walk or bus instead of drive.

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This Week’s DailyGood Digest

As the past week unfolded, it revealed narratives of resilience and unity that uplift and inspire, showcasing the beauty of human and natural endeavors.

With unwavering determination, 80-year-old Natalie Grabow shattered barriers by becoming the oldest female Ironman finisher, proving age is no limit to dreams. At Silver Linings Rescue Ranch, senior dogs find love and care, rewriting their stories with each tender embrace. In the mysterious depths of the ocean, the endangered North Atlantic right whales show signs of recovery, a testament to the relentless pursuit of redemption. In the heart of Ukraine, millennial women juggle roles as activists and caretakers, embodying resilience in adversity. On Ulong Island, Palau ground doves flourish after the removal of invasive species, singing a hymn of nature’s resilience. In Secunda, a giant crochet Christmas tree transforms into blankets for those in need, a symbol of communal warmth and generosity. And finally, in a tale of relief and gratitude, a German shepherd tracks down a missing toddler, showcasing the profound bond between humans and their animal companions.

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Nonprofit Removes 300k Landmines in Sri Lanka, Allows 280k People to Return Home

“Nothing epitomizes war’s destructive legacy more than landmines and unexploded bombs, which have terrorized the populations of dozens of countries for decades.” Halo Trust, a British nonprofit, saw a need and responded. They have been clearing landmines from conflict sites around the world for many years. Among them is Sri Lanka where a thirty-year civil war ended in 2009. HALO immediately began helping remove unexploded ordnance, and recently announced they had cleared 300,000 landmines from a large area. “Thanks to HALO, over 280,000 former internally displaced persons have now returned safely to their homes and most of the land is clear.” Halo’s Sri Lanka Operations Manager said, “Today, I’m proud to be part of the team leading their clearance. Reaching the milestone of 300,000 landmines removed is not just a number; it represents lives saved and land returned to communities.”

Be The Change

Express appreciation and support for those around the world who see a need and respond.