Some recent scholarship recipients have written to tell us what receiving a scholarship means to them. Here are a few of their stories:
“Recently, I suffered a serious physical ‘calamity’ which put me into a major financial crisis. So, just when the practice was most necessary, it seemed I would not be able to pursue it. Without the scholarship program, I believe I would have sunk into a serious depression. But, with the generosity of New York Insight Meditation Center, I have been able to sustain a positive attitude and reach greater depth in acceptance and understanding smack in the middle of this crisis. I am blessed and grateful for the chance to continue my studies and practice. The scholarship program has been a lifesaver, literally.”
“I have always felt a special tie to New York Insight Meditation Center because they provided me with my first deeply felt meditation experiences. Those experiences were revolutionary for me. I felt completely accepted there; I felt I had a place to be myself, and that place was where I was. As time passed I learned that those qualities of acceptance, dignity, and respect for others are qualities that New York Insight actively nourishes in all its programs. This year I found myself in a difficult economic situation and I did not have enough money for the Long-Term Meditation Course. I was eager to take the course because I felt that the commitment would give me the opportunity to deepen my experience and understanding. This short month since the start of the course, has filled me with enthusiasm for the teachings and my daily life is more joyous and richer in every way. I am grateful to New York Insight for its generosity in enabling me to participate in these teachings.”
“As a member of New York Insight Meditation Center’s Young Adult Sangha, I am able to witness the incredible process of people coming to the dharma at a formative and often turbulent stage in their lives. Many come to our sittings and express deep appreciation that we ask nothing more than dana. Additionally, the scholarship fund allows us to say ‘No one will be turned away,’ which helps many young practitioners to be able to experience their first day-long meditation retreat. More than that, experiencing the generosity implicit in that option shows these new practitioners so much about what sangha really is.”
Has receiving a scholarship from NYI helped you on your spiritual path? Write to us and tell us your story. We’d love to hear from you and we may even use your story here, to inspire others and to help our Scholarship Fund grow.
Donate now to the Scholarship Fund 
