Our Commitment

Lion’s Roar Dharma Center is committed to a path of awakening that is open and transparent which follows in the tradition of the historical Shakyamuni Buddha and the many Bodhisattvas who have carried his teachings forward. We are a living embodiment of the truth that it is possible to have a vibrant, sangha without power trips, without alcohol and drugs and without money issues. We believe that we can run a clean clear program and are dedicated to having a stand up organization that serves our entire community and our world.

Our Values

We are a group of devoted Vajrayana practitioners who value staying true to our Teachers Khensur Jhado Tulku Rinpoche, Lama Yeshe Jinpa and Geshe Damchoebaazar Gurjav’s vision of serving others through sharing the dharma. We are committed to creating a warm, safe, and welcoming atmosphere where all levels of practitioners, from all walks of life are free to practice in a supportive, authentic environment.

We value harmony but welcome challenges because we understand challenges are necessary for our growth. And we value independence while simultaneously understand the need for cooperation. Both qualities are nurtured and encouraged. We are not just here to see the teacher, grab some techniques and go. Lion’s Roar is heart centered. This means we value really knowing one another which happens through human connection, teacher to student, warm hand to warm hand, warm heart to warm heart.

Following The Five Precepts

Lion’s Roar Refuge Members and Teachers are committed to following the five precepts. Sometimes this can be very challenging practice but for the benefit of ourselves, our sangha and our community, we support one another in keeping these promises.

  1. To abstain from taking a life
  2. To abstain from taking what is not given
  3. To abstain from sexual misconduct
  4. To abstain from false speech
  5. To abstain from intoxicants

In the Spirit of Our Community

  • We remember the big picture. We are here to be free and happy and to help others be free and happy.
  • We check our motivation for attending temple. We do not go to temple to find a date.
  • We protect our community from verbal, sexual or physical harassment.
  • When things go wrong, we do not blame others, even in jest.
  • When disagreements arise, we table our problems and agree to disagree. If needed, we request the help of a mediator.
  • We let go of the need to be right and admit our mistakes quickly.
  • We include others in projects/tasks. We remember our interdependence and don’t take over projects. We understand the joy that comes from working cooperatively.
  • We offer our talents with humility.
  • Sometimes we step back and sometimes we step forward.
  • We ask for help and we look for ways to help. Everyone helps sometimes.
  • We don’t put ourselves above others.
  • We are patient and tolerant of differences.
  • We understand everyone makes mistakes sometimes.
  • We don’t gossip or use harsh speech.
  • When we feel negative emotions arise, we remember that they are always an opportunity to practice.
  • We support one another and remember we are all beginners.
  • We take risks and encourage others to take risks.
  • We notice and greet newcomers with warmth and kindness.