Sangha of Auspicious Companions

A Living Memorial

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August 8, 2024

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Ice Cream Aunties Bring Joy and Healing

A devastating and highly destructive fire last year traumatized people in Lahaina on the island of Maui. Some residents were fearful of coming out of their places of refuge, even when essentials were left on the lawn. Locals who wanted to help wondered what it would take to get them out. Then one had an idea: free ice cream. Now known as the Ice Cream Aunties, they began to signal ice cream delivery with a truck playing a jingle, and children and adults could not resist. But the ice cream also quickly helped generate a kind of healing to help in their process of recovery. One Auntie described it as palpable, infectious, and contagious. People began to want hugs, high fives, handshakes, and fist bumps along with their ice cream. As Auntie related, both children and adults would say, “‘I really could use a hug today.’ And I’m like, ‘You know what? Me too.’” She added, “Because even with all of this stuff that normally will take people down, we have these opportunities where we can lift each other up.” { read more }

Be The Change

Think of someone you know who could use a hug today. Seek them out and make their day and your own a little brighter!

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August 6, 2024

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So No One Dies Alone

Alison Bunce, an award-winning nurse, has pioneered a community that aims to provide companionship to individuals in their last hours. Originating from the No One Dies Alone (NODA) program in the United States, Bunce adapted this model in the UK, calling her project Compassionate Inverclyde. What began as a palliative care initiative has evolved into a larger community service project, offering support to individuals at various stages of life. The organization now operates with over 100 volunteers, including community outreach programs that focus on alleviating social isolation. “Our very ethos is about being kind, and how ordinary people can make a difference together,” notes Bunce. It’s not just about being there at the end of life; it’s about creating a more connected and compassionate community every day. { read more }

Be The Change

Reach out to a neighbor, acquaintance, or friend you haven’t seen in awhile. Invite them for a walk, tea, or some simple way to share space and time together.

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Inspiring Links of the Week

August 3, 2024

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The Benefits of Volunteering

Experience and research show that while volunteering is good in and of itself, volunteers may receive as much or more than they give. Some of the benefits: it keeps people active; leads to new friendships, less loneliness, and more social support; it instills a sense of purpose, and improves self-esteem and self-confidence; and they feel a sense of accomplishment. Researchers find volunteering may even help people live longer because of physical health benefits such as reduced inflammation. While beneficial at any age, it is especially helpful to retirees. To get started, there are many organizations that pair skills with volunteer opportunities, and asking friends or relatives for recommendations is also an effective way to find a good fit. One long-time volunteer noted: “A lot of the time it’s right in front of you,” he said. “What do you love? What do you want to do? And now you can do that.” { read more }

Be The Change

Think about what you love, and what you want to give. If you don’t already volunteer, reach out today to a friend, relative, or organization to find one way to share the love. Join in the dance!

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Cameron

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August 1, 2024

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Meet the Rodents Saving Lives

Daniel may scan through debris in a search-and-rescue mission, detect a landmine, identify a positive TB sample, or find an illegal product poached from wildlife. When he is successful, he pulls a switch on his custom-made vest to signal success. Daniel is rewarded with a smoothie and peanuts, and he is happy with those because he is an African giant pouched rat. Being small and lightweight with an acute sense of smell, he is able to maneuver in cramped spaces, and quickly locate his target. Since 2003, a non-profit’s trained rats “have helped find over 160,000 mines and other explosives, and its TB-detection rats have screened more than a half-million patients.” They require extensive training, are very clever, and have unique personalities. Says one trainer, “We’re cognizant that not everybody loves rats as much as we do.” Yet, they are confident of the potential to extend their capabilities, and work together to save lives. { read more }

Be The Change

Choose a creature of which you may not be very fond. Learn about them and their gifts to life’s web. If possible, seek out the creature and express your appreciation, or simply thank them in the silence of your heart.

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July 30, 2024

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Do Friends Lengthen Life?

Numerous and well documented studies confirm that “connection and loneliness influence our susceptibility to many diverse diseases.” They maintain that connectivity strengthens the immune system, and lowers the risk of developing diabetes, hypertension, dementia, and even a cold. People with a greater number of strong connections do better, but even casual acquaintances such as at churches or clubs can help. The studies are so thorough and compelling, the World Health Organization established a Commission on Social Connection, calling it a “global health priority.” “The conclusions of this research are clear: if we want to live a long and healthy life, we should start prioritizing the people around us.” { read more }

Be The Change

Include your current social connectivity as an essential part of your physical fitness regime. Identify and take steps to strengthen existing ties, and create new ones. It may start with asking someone a simple, “How are you?”

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Inspiring Links of the Week

July 28, 2024

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Conversation with Michelle Esrick: Making “Saint Misbehavin’

It took Michelle Esrick ten years to make her intimate film about Wavy Gravy, “This was the craziest idea I ever had in my life! I was an actress and a poet. I never thought of myself as a filmmaker. But I’ve always lived my life following my heart, and I’ve seen that it pretty much works out. I mean, the good thing about practicing being awake, practicing being conscious, is that you’re awake to hear callings.” It was a big calling and finally paid off. Here’s the inspiring conversation… { read more }

Be The Change

Hypothesis: small acts of kindness always bring a lift for the giver as well as the receiver. If you’re curious to test this, be on the lookout for chances to be generous. There may just be endless opportunities to make such gestures.

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