It has been a little over a month since I returned from my Ordination at Padmaloka, where I was humbled to receive the name ‘Kusalarāja,’ meaning “a king of skillful action”. This was given by my dear friend and colleague at FutureDharma, Nandavajra, who is now also my Private Preceptor.
Working at FutureDharma has been truly transformative for me. Prior to joining in May 2021, I spent 13 years in the housing and homelessness sector, which, though rewarding at times, left me feeling drained and disconnected from my Dharmic principles. Now, with a Team Based Right Livelihood, I am blessed to collaborate daily with dedicated practitioners, forging deep connections and supporting inspiring Dharma projects worldwide.
My Public Ordination ceremony at Padmaloka was demonstrative of the vital role that FutureDharma has played in preparing me for this step. Of course Nandavajra, my Private Preceptor, was present, along with Amalavajra, a wonderful mentor and friend from his time at FutureDharma. Not to mention Karunatara, a new addition to the FutureDharma team, who attended as my guest. And Sanghamani, with whom I had the pleasure of working with during my initial months at FutureDharma,and who warmly guided me in ‘fundraising as a spiritual practice’ during a Karuna Trust phone appeal.
Left to right: Karunatara, Kusalaraja, Nandavajra.
When my previous work in housing and homelessness left me feeling stressed out, I used to worry a lot about how to get my “work/life balance” right. Now that distinction seems completely irrelevant!
I am deeply passionate about enabling others to experience a meaningful context like this within our movement. As I embark on my life within the Order and at FutureDharma, I am resolute in my commitment to support and make more Triratna projects accessible wherever they are needed. Fundraising for FutureDharma is just one of the ways that I am able to do this.
We are all doing our bit – working for the movement, being a friend to newcomers at our centre or group, donating to Triratna causes, running classes, and much more.
Amidst the many competing visions and causes in the world, Sangharakshita’s presentation of the Dharma and his vision for a New Society offer something truly special and unique. Together, we have the potential to make a positive impact and share this profound gift with the world.
Kusalaraja
If you would like to learn more about how you can support FutureDharma projects, click here.