Meet a Sangha Friend
Name: Melissa Liquet
Practice Background: I think that our spiritual journey begins at birth but my love of Buddhism began over 25 years ago originally in the Tibetan tradition.
Won Buddhism Background: I discovered Won Buddhism with a friend probably over a decade ago but returned about a year and a half ago. I believe that it drives home some concepts that are not as emphasized in other traditions which works for me quite nicely.
Profession: I’ve been a healthcare worker in various forms for over 11 years. Currently I am a program coordinator and case manager.
Hobbies or Interests: Outside of practice, I very much enjoy learning about complimentary holistic health practices. I hold a 250 hour yoga teacher certification and I am a reiki energy healer. When I’m not in metaphysical classes, I often spend my free time cuddling with my husband and calico cat in our apartment in Queens.
A Dharma book (or two) you recommend: One of the dharma books that left a big impression on me is “When Things Fall Apart” by Pema Chodron. Actually, it seems like everything she writes is amazing.
A Dharma phrase or teaching that stays with you:
I find this mantra particularly inspiring. “Namo, Guan Shi Yin Pusa” means “Homage to the One Who Perceives the Sounds of the World”. Reciting this mantra makes me feel like the Bodhisattva of Compassion and the entire Dharmakaya is present, responsive and infused with the energy of love.
What brings you joy or makes you laugh these days?
My greatest joy are days when I can just be. Slowing down, practicing, and attuning myself to the healing vibrations of a beautiful spring day are my happiest, most nourishing times.
A favorite moment or memory from your practice or time with the Sangha:
I very much enjoyed going on a retreat in January at Won Dharma Center. This gave me an opportunity for deep practice with members of the Manhattan temple as well as the greater sangha. Even in silence, the interconnection was profound and the innate joy of the present moment was nothing short of transformative
Advice for someone new to practice:
Buddhism can be intensely intellectual which is fun, but it can also feel like a labyrinth which at times may cause you to get stuck when you encounter something that you don’t understand. What has helped me greatly is deferring to the books of the great teachers but then leaving plenty of time and space to simply be and integrate it through practice. It begins to make more sense we are still and not trying to figure it all out and in fact, it unfolds in great splendor at the most unexpected and organic times.
Would you like to share your contact info so Dharma friends can connect with you?
My email address is melissa_liquet@aol.com and I’d love to get to know this sangha better. I’m always happy to chat and support.
