One of the bigger news items from the treasurer's standpoint has been the recent response from the IRS to our application for recognition as a 501(c)3 organization. The qualifications for membership are simple. Just "any person interested in learning about Buddhism and respectful of the beliefs." I think this works well with our aim of sharing dharma for the benefit of ourselves and others and striving to make Buddhism as we understand it a real part of our community. Labels are, of course, less important than the wisdom and understanding itself.

And just what are the benefits of membership? I think there are some obvious results such as our meditation space, and the great opportunity to have teachers like Zasep Tulku Rinpoche or the cast from Zuru Ling in Vancouver come here to teach. I would argue that our dues and donations help create our spiritual community and help create the sangha itself. With the help of teachers and spiritual companions I've gained a certain amount of inner peace and perspective. I hope that upon reflection all the other members of GBLT would find they too have found some inner benefit from membership.

So, having said all this, dear friends, did you know it's time to renew your annual membership? Yes, the bylaws also state that membership runs from June 1 to May 31 of each year! I hope you can find one of the levels of membership appropriate for the benefits you feel you have received from GBTL. Please contact me with your renewal (or perhaps first time membership.) Thanks!

[See our Join Us page.]

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