Why Sangha?

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Alone we are vulnerable, but with brothers and sisters to work with, we can support each other. We need a sangha; we need a brother, or sister, or friend to remind us of what we already know. The Dharma is in us, but it needs watering and nourishing to manifest and become a reality. 

A Sangha is a community of resistance: we are resisting the speed, violence, and unwholesome ways of living that are prevalent in our society.

In society, much of our suffering comes from feeling disconnected from one another. Being with the Sangha can heal these feelings of isolation and separation. We practice together, share a room together, eat side by side and clean pots together. By participating with other practitioners in daily activities we can experience a tangible feeling of love and acceptance. 

A sangha is a garden, full of many varieties of trees and flowers. When we can look at ourselves and at others as beautiful, unique flowers and trees we can truly grow to understand and to love one another. One flower may bloom early in the spring and another flower may bloom in late summer. One tree may bear many fruits and another tree may offer cool shade. No one plant is greater, or lesser, or the same as any other plant in the garden. Each member of the sangha also has unique gifts to offer to the community. 

We each have areas that need attention as well. When we can appreciate each member’s contribution, and see our weaknesses as potential for growth, we can learn to live together harmoniously. Our practice is to see that we are a flower or a tree, and that we are the whole garden as well, all interconnected.

— The New Sangha Handbook