Name: Allyson B.
Dharma Name: Won Eun Soo (원은수, 2018)
Won Buddhism Background: I became intrigued by the philosophy of Buddhism when I was in high school. When I came to New York City for college, I realized that I could transform my interest into a sustainable practice with the right community. The Won Buddhist Temple of Manhattan was the first temple I found when looking for that community 10 years ago, and I’ve been coming ever since!
Profession: I work in Student Engagement at Fordham University while simultaneously pursuing my Master’s in Social Work.
Hobbies or Interests: I love taking a picnic blanket and a good book to Central Park on a sunny day. In the winter, I enjoy exploring new cafés with friends (I studied French as an undergrad, so I’m always on the hunt for an exceptional macaron or croissant!)
A Dharma book you recommend: Anger: Wisdom for Cooling the Flames by Thich Nhat Hanh
A Dharma phrase or teaching that stays with you: “Whatever you meet unexpectedly, join with meditation” (lojong slogan #16)
What brings you joy or makes you laugh these days? I work with college students, who are always teaching me hilarious Gen Z slang that leaves me in a state of simultaneous confusion and wonder.
A favorite moment or memory from your practice or time with the Sangha: My first year of practice at Won coincided with Doyeon’s 10 year anniversary of serving at the temple. I volunteered to pick up a cake from a bakery downtown for the occasion, with generous instructions from Kim, who coordinated the order and insisted that this was the best bakery in NYC! Seeing the way everyone in our Sangha was so overjoyed to celebrate Doyeon and honor all of the love and care she has poured into our shared space was very touching.
Advice for someone new to practice: “Always meditate on whatever provokes resentment” (another lojong slogan)