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The Cambodia Project: Do Something Bigger
In July 2007, I traveled to Cambodia and spent time at the Angkor Monuments, a sixty square mile complex that is the largest spiritual site in the world. I was blown away by the huge stonework of the ancient Mahayana Buddhist kingdom, and deeply inspired by the spirit of the Cambodian people. Their resilience to rise above the genocide and devastation that claimed over a million of their brothers and sisters revealed to me yet again why we must continue to study the Buddhadharma. Although I had heard and read much about Cambodia, the experience of being there gave a greater depth of insight.
When I left home for Angkor I planned to make a short film about the trip that could help raise awareness about Cambodian Buddhism. But while traveling with my tender guide Sopaul, I saw families camped in front of hospitals for days, waiting with sick babies in their arms. He explained that most of the population does not know that mosquitoes are responsible for the spread of disease. In addition, current events as well as the history of Cambodia are only available in English, which most Cambodians do not speak. Most children don’t have access to school even in land mine free areas. The people are trapped in unfortunate circumstances with no way to free themselves without compassionate assistance from you and me.
I came to understand that what Cambodia really needs is for us to learn about the plight of the people and what we can do to help. I decided that in addition to making a film (check out the soundtrack here), I am going to build a school. We are editing the film now. And, I need your help to build the school. I hope you will join me. A large or small donation will go immediately toward the Rainbowdharma Cambodia Project. In exchange, I will send you personal updates, and include you in my dharma prayers. I will carry your name with me as I and compassionate others like you begin the work on behalf of healing others, and of course, ourselves. We've all done a lot, now it's time to
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