June 2023

I hope this newsletter finds you all in good health and high spirits. As we enter the summer season, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on an important lesson I learned during my recent trip to Kauai, Hawaii.

While browsing through a local shop, my daughter struck up a conversation with a young sales clerk who happened to be born and raised in Kauai. She had recently visited Honolulu, Oahu. It was her first time leaving the island, and she shared her amazement at seeing a four-lane highway and towering high-rise buildings, which you don’t see on Kauai. It made me realize how easily we take such things for granted when we have been fortunate enough to experience them before.

This encounter reminded me of the saying, "you don't know what you don't know." It served as a powerful reminder that not everyone has had the same opportunities or exposure to certain ideas or ways of life. Understanding this can foster empathy and a deeper understanding of others, recognizing that their actions and beliefs may be shaped by their background and experiences. It made me think about the importance of having the knowledge about the Buddhist teachings to help guide us through life and, at Placer Buddhist Church, we have the opportunity to build upon that knowledge.

Personally, growing up Buddhist has played a significant role in shaping my approach to life. The teachings and values instilled in me have guided my everyday actions, promoting a fulfilling life with lots of family and friends and a compassionate attitude towards others. At Placer Buddhist Church, we prioritize establishing a strong Buddhist foundation and continuously building upon it to apply these teachings to our daily lives. I think reciting the Golden Chain for all those years has taught me something!

This summer, we will continue to hold our two services each month, continuing the momentum of Buddhist teachings. With the return of Rev. Yuki Sugahara back to the Sacramento region full-time as Rinban, this will ensure that Placer Buddhist Church will have a minister available at all times, with both Revs. Sugahara and Hamasaki ready to provide guidance and support to our members.

We are excited to inform you that we will be adding additional Buddhist education classes to our schedule in the near future. While the specific timing has yet to be determined, we believe these classes will enrich our understanding of Buddhism and allow for further personal growth.

Remember, the journey of learning and personal growth is continuous. There is always more to explore, understand, and incorporate into our lives, and we hope you will join us for these educational opportunities.

With our active Sangha, Placer Buddhist Church continues working on fundraising and community events and maintaining the buildings and property. The golf committee, led by Rich Kawahata and Bruce Yamashiro, resulted in a successful tournament even though it was the stormiest weather we had ever had for this tournament.

I also want to give a shout out to all those that have been working so hard to keep the grounds clean and clear of dead, fire hazardous brush and poison oak. These efforts have been led by Frank and Susan Perrott, Kiki Yonemoto, Carole Kawamoto, Butch Kawamoto, Linda Dickerson, and many others.

If you have any questions or suggestions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We value your input and strive to create a warm and inclusive community where everyone feels supported on their spiritual path. You can email us at office@placerbuddhistchurc.org and keep checking the website at PlacerBuddhistChurch.org for updated information. 

In Gassho, 

Rene' Yamashiro, PBC President