André became a member of the Kadampa Center in 2006. The very first day, after listening to Geshe-la’s teachings, he knew that he had found his home. He decided to take the two-year Discovering Buddhism course, thinking that he gave Jesus 25 years of his life, he could at least give the Buddha two years. He took refuge in 2007, and the two years now number almost two decades. He has been teaching Buddhist Meditation and Thought in the prison system, primarily at Nash Correctional, for well over a dozen years. Teaching Buddha’s wisdoms has taught him that these far-reaching ideals must be studied, meditated on and practiced. In this way we come to know their validity. He believes, as His Holiness teaches, we all possess the same potential (Buddha Nature). Our life’s job is to realize it. As he strives for enlightenment, his sole purpose for existence is to help others attain it as well.
I began coming to teachings and took refuge in 2001. Under the kind and wise guidance of Geshe Gelek I was able to ordain in 2013. I study and practice the dharma as best I can.
David Machles has been practicing meditation for several decades and has been teaching meditation for over 15 years in corporations, prisons, and public venues. He began coming to the Kadampa Center in 2004 and has served in a number of roles including Kadampa Center Board President. David and his wife co-founded a business in 1993 helping organizations in safety, wellness, and leadership development. He has two children and three grandchildren.
Venerable Ngawang Lhamo became a member of the Kadampa Center in October 2004. Gyurme Khensur Rinpoche Jetsun Lobsang Delek presided over Kadampa Center’s first ordination ceremony on Saka Dawa 2009, at which time Ven. Lhamo was one of the students who took robes. Ven. Lhamo has served in many important volunteer roles at the center, including puja coordinator, chantmaster, one of the Sunday morning meditation leaders, and occasionally teaches Meditation 101.
