As we greet another new year, we are reminded how challenging it can be to fully experience the present moment. Circumstances and conditions change, sometimes by the hour, as we all try to keep ourselves, our fellow sangha members, and our loved ones safe and healthy – physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Experiencing this moment includes taking time to appreciate those changes. It can mean exploring what is different from the past and what might be different in the future, without letting our expectations get in the way. For AZC, now is a good time to take stock.

From the beginning of the pandemic, Mako and our practice leadership have worked to maintain as many of our practice activities as possible. When appropriate, that has meant coordinating both virtual and in-person formats. At the same time, we now have fewer teacher resources, residents and doan ryo than before the pandemic began. It has become clear that we should be ready to adapt our programs and reorganize our resources to meet today’s circumstances.

If you have questions or thoughts that you would like to share with the board, you can send those to zcboard@googlegroups.com. For questions around our calendar, programs, or resources, you can also contact admin@austinzencenter.org.

If you have not already done so, consider becoming a member of Austin Zen Center. Your reliable monthly contributions will help ensure AZC can continue to share the dharma.

With bows of gratitude.

The AZC Board of Directors

President: Shu Shuey
Vice-President: Wendy Salome
Secretary: Karen Laing
Treasurer: David E. Adelman
Member: Josh Kopin