Hands-on care for others is a hallmark of Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo’s instructions for her students. Under her guidance, we have founded two animal-welfare groups: Tara’s Babies Animal Welfare and the Garuda Aviary. The former began as a rescue operation for dogs abandoned in the flooded streets of New Orleans, and now participates in the “no-kill” movement, rescuing dogs that would otherwise be euthanized in animal shelters and working to have them fostered and adopted.
Garuda Aviary in the news again!
See Jetsunma on the CBS Evening News talk about compassion and the Garuda Aviary
To read the article, click here.
The Garuda Aviary provides life-time shelter and rehabilitation for parrots that have been abused and neglected. The aviary features suitable indoor environments for different kinds of parrots, with a flight cage where the birds can be viewed by the public. It is located on the grounds of KPC in Poolesville, Maryland.
In addition to these organizations, KPC students participate in more informal efforts. We have started raising honey bees, and continue to feed wild birds.
For Jetsunma’s students, this practical approach brings Dharma alive in our hearts, teaching us to be aware of the needs of others, and selfless in our response. We learn that there is no separation between the suffering of animals and our own desire for happiness.
But you don’t need to be a student of Jetsunma, or even a Buddhist, to participate! Volunteering is open to anyone who recognizes that kindness and compassion in the simplest form brings immeasurable benefit and joy, and that our lives can be potent vehicles for change.
