WHat Is DAna?

Dana is the ancient  Pali word for Generosity or Giving. This inclination to give is a  voluntary expression of our gratitude and appreciation. Though giving is never expected, it is always appreciated.

How Does it relate to buddhism?

The Buddha taught the three joys of Generosity:

• the intention to give

• the act of giving

• the recollection of giving.

The Buddha asks us to contemplate our past acts of generosity, when we’re feeling stuck. Many of us never allow ourselves to reflect on our past generosity, for fear of being too self- indulgent. But this is a mistake; they can be a great source of joy and happiness.

Dana includes acts of Service

Anything, can be a gift. Taking a walk instead of zoning out to the TV is a gift. Not taking ourselves too seriously, definitely a gift.

This isn’t just about money, we can give our time and energy. We can give our attention. We can give thanks. We can give encouragement. We can do metta.

We are working to be of service, by becoming penpals with incarcerated people. Writing letters provides a vital connection to the outside world for incarcerated people, and we acknowledge that this is less about helping “prisoners”, and more about recognizing the humanity of each person. Everyone has something to learn and something to give.