Dear Sangha,

I wish I could be here with you during this weekend, and join in honoring Ken’s remarkable legacy. As you all know, he was a dear, dear friend and long-time fellow traveler on this remarkable dharma path.

With Ken, I was always inspired by the depth of his personal commitment, and by the great kindnesses he showed me, and so many others. I know the deep joy he took in the connections he fostered, both personally and professionally, and the difference he made in so many people’s lives. He was simply a wonderful and caring human being, and I’m sure he would have felt a deep satisfaction in seeing how the Center has carried on, and grown, in this year since his death.

Ken’s own work of course grew out of the dedication of so many before him, and particularly from his bond with Roshi Philip Kapleau. I’m sure it would be Ken’s deepest wish that we all do our best to let this unified spiritual energy carry us forward, and for each of us to bring-to-life this fundamental, compassionate spirit of the Dharma – on the mat, and in the world!

What’s certain is that these times call for strong people, dedicated people who are willing to stand true, and take risks. This practice of ours unquestionably offers us the foundation and insight that can lead to the deepest kind of change.

With hands palm-to-palm,

Lawson