Dave Murphy has been studying, practicing, and benefitting from Buddhist teachings for almost a decade. In 2012, he found himself feeling very unhappy, which led him to a class at our Oak Park location. It was his first experience with Buddhist teachings. “I really didn't know what to make of the whole Buddhist aspect but the people were nice and the Dharma resonated as a pearl of very sound wisdom to me. It was making a difference.” He was also struck by the good nature and kindness of the teacher and other students he met.
During the past 9 years, he’s volunteered for KMC Chicago in a number of different roles, from replacing carpet to Assistant Administrative Director. And now he’s added the role of a weekly teacher, leading the Thursday evening class (livestream and in person in Wicker Park). Why is he so happy to volunteer so much? He explained, “Kadam Dharma has made such a positive impact for me [...] and it is a way to pay back the kindness that I am receiving. I also feel the blessings of being of service to something greater than myself.”
He’s been especially inspired lately by a line from How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso:
“Every Happiness there is in the world arises as a result of others' kindness.”
When asked why, he explained: “It reinforces the idea that all of our actions are important. If we want happiness for ourselves we must also wish it for others, as we are all connected. By being kind with our actions, words, and our thoughts we can bring happiness to all living beings.”