Dana is a Sanskrit and Pali word meaning generosity or giving. In Buddhism, it also refers to the practice of cultivating generosity. Ultimately, the practice culminates in one of the Paramitas (perfections): the Dana Paramita (Perfection of Giving). This can be characterized by unattached and unconditional generosity, giving and letting go.

The exquisite paradox in Buddhism is that the more we give - and the more we give without seeking something in return - the more wealthy (in the broadest sense of the word) we will become. By giving we destroy those acquisitive impulses that ultimately lead to further suffering. (Wikipedia)

 

"Gaining is delusion, losing is enlightenment."

From Kosho Uchiyama, Roshi:

"To recognize true zazen, we have to look at our practice from an absolute perspective. If you are caught up in one of the limited kinds of Zen of the six realms, you can no longer see the essential point of buddhadharma. And what is that? As I said before, Buddhism teaches impermanence and the quality of non-ego. Letting go and opening the hand of thought is the foundation of Zen based on the buddhadharma.

The saying "gaining is delusion, losing is enlightenment" has very practical value. In our ordinary human life, we are always trying to fulfill our desires. We're satisfied only when all our desires are met. In Buddhism, though, it's just the opposite: it is important for us to leave our desire alone, without trying to fulfill them. If we push this one step further - gaining is delusion, losing is enlightenment - we're talking about active participation in loss.

Let me be clear that I am not saying, "Losing is important, so go help people out by collecting what you can from them." That just makes you the "someone" who gains. Rather, apply this saying just to yourself and give something up. For breaking the ego's grip, nothing is more effective than giving something up." (Opening the Hand of Thought), 2004, P. 153)

 

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Bisbee Lotus Sangha
Community Service Award

A minimum of one award of $250 will be given to a promising Bisbee High School student to assist in further education.

To be awarded to a student or students who aspire to a career in social work, education, or health services.

Awards will be made based on student having shown an ability to put forth effort to achieve goals and having a spirit of cooperation with others

Name: __________________________________________

Address: ________________________________________

Phone: _____________________________

What schools have you applied to and/or been accepted:

_________________________________________________________

Career interest: ____________________________________

Please write a short note (maximum of one page), describing how you envision making contributions to your community with your career. You may use the back of this application or a separate piece of paper.

Please submit applications by May 1, 2008

The gift of Dharma surpasses all gifts.
Dhammapada