Introduction

Hi All,

Have been meaning to introduce my self for a long time and am finally getting to it.  I have been a prison Dharma volunteer going on my third year now.  It has been one of the most satisfying things I have done and a real learning experience.  Sometimes I wonder if it I get more out of my involvement than the inmates!

I am part of a group of 5 to 6 Buddhist volunteers at a minimum security prison.  At least one of us goes up there every week and each of us tries to go at least once a month.  We are fortunate that there are enough of us so that we don't burn out.  Plus the prison is located 40 miles away which is not very far all things considered but then not nearby either.

We do a couple all day retreats during the year which all of us enjoy.  It is a good chance for the inmates to do some deeper meditation (and I think there are also some really quality naps going on too!). 

Although the prison is currently minimum security there is a medium security section under construction that will eventually have about 1200 beds if I remember correctly.  The chaplain has been encouraging us to expand our Buddhist/meditation program into that section when it is open.  We would like to do that but have not finally committed yet.  We will see when it gets closer if we have the resources to commit to that.  This is a good time in my note to mention how fortunate we are to have a great chaplain who fully supports and encourages us.  He even attends our retreats!

This intro has become too long and I need to leave for work.  I hope to become a more active participant in this pod.  Thank you all for all your kindness and I look forward to hearing and sharing ideas and experiences.

Colleen