As a late bloomer I came to the Dharma during lockdown. I found my way to Glasgow Buddhist centre (online) via my sister who is an Order Member in Triratna Buddhist Order. Class after class left me in wonder as to how I could have missed this truth for so many years. But I have come to understand that I could only begin to hear the Dharma when the conditions were right for me to listen.
I was married for many years and spent all of that time raising my 3 children (Robyn 28, David 26, Ted 18) and working in our family business.
In 2009 I found recovery from chemical addictions and this started a search for a spiritual solution to the problem of life. It surprises me now that I had to find and reject some strong false refuges before I found the Dharma.
My marriage broke down and I separated from my husband and it was in that crucible I found the Dharma. Since then – with the encouragement of my children – I have sought to immerse myself in a Dharma life.
In 2021 I went to live and work at Adhisthana –a gathering place for the Triratna Buddhist Order. I had the privilege to stay there for a year and in February of this 2023 I took up a position as Maintenance manager here.
What greater joy can there be had than to work and practice with a community whose purpose is to create and service Taraloka, a place that allows women to go deeper into their A Spiritual Practice? I feel honoured and privileged to be here.