Dear Friend,
Despite the stresses of this challenging year, if we look intently, we can find reasons to give thanks this holiday season. We hope the Diamond Approach path and practices have supported you through these uncertain times and allowed you to rest more deeply into the True Nature of who and what you are. We at Friends of Ridhwan are incredibly grateful for our school’s quick and nimble response to the new realities of lockdowns and social distancing, which has ensured we continued to receive the teaching. Our sense of community, of coming together in difficult times, feels more alive than ever.
Earlier this year, Hameed virtually visited a number of retreat groups around the world. In the video just below, he talks about his and Karen’s initial teaching-planning for the year and his surprising discovery on his virtual visits.
The school has endured this difficult year and remains in a good financial position, but both known and unknown challenges also remain. Every year we expect to cover a part of our costs through the generous contributions of students. This year, due to all the local, domestic, and global challenges, we are tracking around $100,000 short of our annual budget.
Thankfully, a generous member of our community has offered a unique opportunity to help the school cross the finish line. This donor will give $50,000 if we can collectively raise another $50,000 in unrestricted funds between now and the end of the year.
Giving whatever amount you can will help us get closer to triggering this challenge gift and reaching our annual fundraising goal.
With deep thanks and appreciation,
Friends of Ridhwan Board:
Sam Barakat, Angelika Boehme, Guus Brackel, Laurie Chestnut, Rob Gussenhoven, Seth Schapiro, Scott Vachon and Richard Wallstein