On April 7, 2013, I had the privilege and honor to help feed our homeless friends in downtown San Diego. Through generous donations, IBS was able to purchase a large amount of food and drinks. We rolled up our sleeves, or for some, rolled up monk robes and got to work filling each lunch bag with various treats, food items and juice. Working alongside me, were some very special people; true Bodhisattvas: Master Hueiguang, Venerable Xianzhong, Danny and Shirley Tam and (I forgot the other person’s name) from IBS. Also participating were friends from the Dharma Bum Temple. As we drove the streets of San Diego, we came across approximately 150-200 people. We provided nourishment to the needy men, women and children while they shared their appreciation and shared conversations with us. For some of us, it was our first time on the streets of downtown, not knowing what to expect, and not perfectly organized, it was the great to see how everyone who showed up pitched in knowing there is no wrong way to help others. Sure enough, it was a success and most of us will probably not forget those few hours we spent organizing, packing, distributing and sharing with those who are not as fortunate as we are.
Helping others is something that I believe strongly about. These homeless people are lost souls that many have forgotten, given up on, or no longer acknowledge. But these are the ones that need our help the most. My heart overflows with compassion as I see how truly grateful they are to have something to eat, something that most of us take for granted, and for someone to genuinely take an interest in them. It truly was a humbling experience.
Lisa H. Kogan
