Manifesting More Space

mandalaThe Seattle Shambhala Center is bursting at the seams.  Community members who attended the March 9 meeting talked about how we can accommodate the growing interest in our programs and teachings. Three teams were formed and they are now working to coordinate community involvement, fundraising, and a search for the right location (real estate).

Here are some basic questions and responses about our process for finding additional space.

Q: Why do we need an additional space?
A: So we can introduce meditation and the dharma to more people…

  • …offering more Way of Shambhala and other programs,
  • …hosting community events and speaking engagements,
  • …attracting and serving more members.

Q: What kind of space are we looking for?
A: A really good space would balance several qualities:

  • Location in an active neighborhood.
  • Probably no farther than 65-70 blocks north or south of downtown.
  • Flexible space for small groups or large events up to 150 people.
  • Reasonable monthly rent.

Q: Why rent and not buy?
A: Renting will help us learn how to grow.

  • We want to keep our beloved Madison Valley center.
  • We want to manage the risk of growing too fast.
  • We want to contemplate buying a “Flagship Center” in 5-7 years.

Q: How will we pay for this?
A: Initially, with fundraising. Long-term, with income generated by the space.

  • We must manage both of our spaces to be self-supporting.
  • Stay tuned for budget details and projections.
  • Get ready for fundraising to open and equip the new space.

Q: How can I help?
A: Join, or send your ideas to one of the three teams working to bring this vision to fruition. Contemplate how much you could contribute financially.

Seattle Shambhala’s process for envisioning and finding a new space began several years ago. The process itself has many qualities, including:

  • Magic
  • Forward Movement
  • Leadership
  • Decisiveness
  • Determination
  • Clarity
  • Shared Vision
  • Transparency
  • Prosperity
  • Abundance
  • Generosity
  • Connection to the community
  • Engagement and connection
  • Lungta – excitement,
  • Possibilities, worthiness
  • Openness
  • Respect
  • Can-do approach
  • Appreciation of the journey
  • A sense of family and
  • Coming home
  • Curiosity
  • Inclusiveness
  • Realism and flexibility
  • Bravery

2 thoughts on “Manifesting More Space

  1. Any chance as part of your growth you could expand and start a new center in Yakima, WA? It seems central WA often gets overlooked for the bigger cities, but this city is really growing fast. At present we have one very traditional Tibetan small group overseen by a Rinpoche. They are only allowed to practice certain Sadanas except when Rinpoche comes to teach 2 to 3 weekends a year. Even then, he is to busy with his work worldwide to invest time as a personal teacher, and their are no teachers in that group. There is a Buddhist Church in the next town, but I’m not at all interested in that tradition. Many here want a nonsectarian center with a Tibetan option but presented in a way that is easily understood in the context and languages of those in the USA and OUR culture. And we need teachers badly. Thank you.

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