Kalyanavaca

In 1974 I first came across the FWBO at an adult literary institute in London. My interest in so-called eastern religions had been sparked by Alan Watts, and I determined to study them all, from A-Z. However, I never got past ‘B’ for Buddhism, and have been seriously involved with the FWBO since 1978, becoming an Order member in 1992.

Whilst in London I contributed to the many manifestations of the West London Buddhist Centre, living in the women’s residential community and working in our right livelihood whole-food business, Friends Foods. In 1989 I moved to Taraloka women’s retreat centre, where I was ordained, and where I worked as the secretary and led and supported retreats. I was on the board of our women’s Dharma magazine, Dakini (later Lotus Realm) for several years. Out of my experience at Taraloka I edited a book, The Moon and Flowers (published 1997), about women’s spiritual practice.

In 1999 I moved to Edinburgh, to be nearer to my elderly mum who needed my support. I have been here ever since, helping to set up the Edinburgh Buddhist Centre in its current manifestation.  I stepped down as its Chairwoman in 2008 after 8 years.  Now I am part of the teaching team at the Centre and about to embark on my first ‘gap year’. Who knows what might arise next?