As we approach the New Year, I’ve found myself reflecting on the year that has passed.
There was so much collective energy poured into establishing the Retreat Centre in preparation for both the Opening Retreat and the Official Opening with Ajahn Brahm. I still remember tearing up as we played a short video clip before the Sunday Dhamma Talk on the 19th of January with images of the completed centre, retreatants arriving, and everyone seated on that first evening. It was a moment that captured the essence of what so many had worked so hard for over many years to bring to life.
We began the year with a brand new centre, a new committee, a growing membership, and a thriving Buddhaloka Centre. However as the months rolled on, it became apperent that there are significant complexities involved in operating a monastery and a retreat centre side by side on the same property. We have certainly had our share of teething problems along the way, and while we have made progress, there is still much work to be done to ensure a seamless connection between the various facets of Newbury.
When you’re on the committee, it’s easy to become fixated on what isn’t working and to rush into fixing what appears to be broken. I’ve certainly found myself in that mindset many times this year. But events like the recent tragedy at Bondi remind us of perspective: Despite its many imperfections, the BSV continues to be a beacon, steadily offering the Dhamma to an ever‑evolving audience.
Every week, an entire army of volunteers forms the engine room of the BSV. They offer requisites to the sangha, transport monastics, guide children, teenagers, and youth in the Dhamma, care for the grounds, buildings, and offices, run the kitchens, support retreatants, publish the newsletter, maintain the website, manage IT, and ensure teachings reach those who cannot attend in person. And none of them are on the BSV payroll. It is truly extraordinary!
For many of us, all we need to do is show up – knowing that everything has already been taken care of.
On behalf of the committee, I want to express my immense gratitude to everyone who has supported the BSV this year, whether through time, effort, or material generosity. Without your support, the BSV simply could not continue to operate and offer a valuable service both here and abroad.
Srijuth Wimalajeewa | President