By Valerie Brown
About ten years ago, I transitioned my career as a lawyer-lobbyist, a job that brought me ‘borrowed’ status, ‘high-power, and high prestige’ but flattened my heart and soul to my current vocation as a Dharma teacher in the Plum Village tradition founded by Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh. The movement from career to vocation wasn’t about seizing an opportunity, instead it was more like a mid-life crisis and I felt myself in free fall. Though the job paid the bills, a part of me felt morally directionless and in the pit of my stomach I knew I couldn’t keep on doing what I was doing. So, I left and slowly with the support of caring family, friends, and the Plum Village community, I’ve become planted in a vocation that is truly rooted in love, service, and compassion. Last week, this all came into a ‘great manifestation’. I was honored to bear witness and offer love and support to these new Dharma teachers at The Great Ordination Ceremony at Plum Village, France. There’s an urgent need in the world for people who are uplifted by happiness, peace and compassionate service. In 2018, I experienced the Great Ordination Ceremony and received the Lamp of Wisdom from the Plum Village Community. That moment continues to define my life and here you can learn more: https://orderofinterbeing.org/…/welcome-new-dharma…/ To these newly ordained Dharma teachers, a deep bow of gratitude. May your Light continue to shine brightly for all. Like my journey, may you learn the distinction between building a career and opening to a vocation. |
