Name: Kimball J.
Dharma Name: Won Joong Shim (원중심, 1995)
Practice Background: My spiritual journey began when I was a child. I was first drawn to Christianity and eventually became a Methodist minister. I had always been drawn to Buddhist thought and when I was invited to the first anniversary of the Won Buddhist Temple in Manhattan, I felt I had immediately found a new spiritual home.
I loved the warmth of the ministers, the beauty of the Dharma service and the practice of meditation. So this has been my spiritual home for the past 30 years.
Won Buddhism Background: The Venerable Ohun Lee, who had known my wife through UN meetings, invited her and me to the first anniversary of the Won Buddhist Temple in Manhattan. That was my first encounter with Won Buddhism, and it changed my life.
Profession: I continue to work as a psychotherapist.
Hobbies or Interests: My time with my family and friends, good books, good movies, playing the piano, and sports (especially baseball).
A Dharma book you recommend: “Peace is Every Step” by Thich Nhat Hahn. “Thoughts Without a Thinker” by Mark Epstein
A Dharma phrase or teaching that stays with you: This is the first moment of the rest of my life
What brings you joy or makes you laugh these days? Joking with my grandchildren
A favorite moment or memory from your practice or time with the Sangha: When received my Dharma name. I was amazed and delighted at how it reflected my deepest concerns.
Advice for someone new to practice: Don’t be discouraged when you feel you can’t sufficiently empty your mind when meditating. It takes time, and even with time and experience there will be days when the “monkey mind” won’t stay quiet. The goal is not to be perfect but to enjoy the experience.