About us
## Welcome :)
Hi, I’m Alexander, and I’m grateful you’re here.
I’ve been practicing Buddhism since I was around 12 years old, which means this path has been part of my life for nearly 20 years. Over that time, my practice has grown through study, retreats, daily meditation, reflection, and years of learning how to live these teachings in real life.
My main focus has been on Tonglen practice and the teachings of Pema Chödrön within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. I try to keep these teachings grounded and accessible, rather than abstract or overly formal. For me, practice is about learning how to meet life honestly and with compassion.
I am a stroke survivor, an open-heart surgery survivor, and I live with chronic illness and chronic pain. I also live with mental health challenges. These experiences deeply shape how I teach and hold space. I understand what it is like to practice while dealing with exhaustion, fear, uncertainty, and physical limitations. This group exists because I know how important it is to have a place where that is understood.
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## Why Practice Here
Over the years, I have built a large personal archive of reflections, retreat notes, teachings, and Buddhist writing that I have shared with this community. These come from decades of study, practice, and lived experience. I continue to learn and grow, and I bring that ongoing work directly into our sessions.
People often join this group because they are looking for something that is:
• grounded and practical
• compassionate without being vague
• structured without being rigid
• supportive without being dependent
• spiritually sincere without being judgmental
This is not a performance space and not a place for spiritual perfection. It is a place for real people who want to practice seriously and kindly.
If you are living with chronic illness, pain, trauma, or mental health challenges, you will likely find that this space understands those realities. If you are simply curious about Buddhist practice and want to learn in a thoughtful, respectful way, you are also welcome.
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## About the Group
We meet online on Zoom for meditation, Tonglen practice, reflection, discussion, and study. Sessions may include silent sitting, guided practices, group dialogue, and shared inquiry.
Our conversations often touch on topics such as:
• working with difficult emotions
• living with chronic pain or illness
• building resilience
• self-compassion
• mindfulness in daily life
• ethical living and right action
You do not need to be Buddhist to join. An interest in learning and practicing together is enough.
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## Community and Input
We also have an optional WhatsApp group for members who want to stay connected between meetings.
Members are encouraged to share ideas, needs, and suggestions for future topics. Many of our workshops and extended sessions are shaped directly by what people ask for and what is happening in their lives.
Paid workshops and longer meditation sessions are offered from time to time and go deeper into specific areas of practice. Participation is always optional.
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## Accessibility and Inclusion
This is a welcoming space for people from many backgrounds, including neurodivergent individuals and those living with chronic illness or pain.
Accessibility matters to me. I try to pace sessions thoughtfully, allow flexibility around participation, and create an environment where people can show up as they are.
At the same time, this is a practice community. We ask for sincerity, respect, and personal responsibility.
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## Safety and Guidelines
To help maintain a healthy and supportive environment, new members may be asked to meet briefly with me one-on-one before receiving the Zoom link. This is simply to introduce ourselves, review group guidelines, and make sure the space feels aligned.
We practice mindful speech and respectful behavior. Harassment, bullying, sexual advances, or harmful conduct are not acceptable in any group spaces.
What is shared in the group stays in the group. Please respect privacy and confidentiality.
If concerns arise, please bring them directly to me.
Please do not share the Zoom link or invite others without checking first.
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## A Little More About Me
Outside of practice, I love animals and share my life with three dogs. I enjoy music, writing, drawing, and creative work. These things help keep me balanced and connected to joy and curiosity.
My life has taken many turns, and Buddhist practice has been the steady thread that has helped me stay present, responsible, and compassionate through it all. This group reflects that ongoing work.
If you are looking for a sincere, grounded, and supportive place to practice, I would be honored to practice with you.
Upcoming events
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