Rev. Master Oriana takes to the sky this morning, flying back to Eugene Buddhist Priory after a five month stay at Throssel. Fly safely good friend in the Dharma.

Rev. Oriana trained at Throssel from 1998 until 2013 when she was appointed chief priest of the Eugene Priory in Oregon, USA. She gave this talk during her five-month visit to Throssel, following the Festival of Maitreya Bodhisattva in early February. It emphasizes the point that although we know Maitreya as the Buddha Yet to Come, we can only see him now, today, and that we all have the potential to be Maitreya Taken from the Throssel website.

Here is the dedication spoken by the celebrant, Rev. Oriana, at the start of the Maitreya Ceremony.

“Above the heavens there is no Maitreya, below the Earth there is no Maitreya, but seeing his face is superior to hearing his name.If you meet him in person, you cannot be deceived.” (quoting Great Master Dogen)

We dedicate this ceremony to Maitreya, the Buddha yet to come. As Maitreya becomes Buddha, gaining a wisdom that knows the cause of suffering and the end of suffering, a wisdom that moves from duality to emptiness, may we, too, gain the same wisdom and see the Pure Land.

Brenda habitually wrote very long letters, always spoke at length in person as well as at length on the telephone. I knew her voice well. Here’s the briefest email she ever sent. Her humour shines through. As does our friendship.

20 May 2000 10:02
From Mugo to Brenda Birchenough
Yes, I looked one more time for that piece of paper and found it thank goodness. I will stay with Jill on Tuesday night though thanks for being willing to have me stay. Now have a safe journey up to Throssel. I do concern myself about you on the road, safety and all of that. Know you are valuable Sangha Treasure, look after yourself and please do not take risks. Steady as she goes. I am taking my own advice too. Sound like a fussing friend? Yes! In gassho, Mugo

20 May 2000 10:25
From Brenda to Mugo
In answer – How’s this for brevity…..
Great!
Good
I will
Thank you
What a lovely thought
I will
I won’t
Definitely
Good
Not Fussing, just caring
Thank you, good friend
Love and in gassho
Brenda

This posting is for all those who struggle, as Brenda struggled, with their early abusive upbringing. Many people have written saying how they have enjoyed hearing her voice on the audio posted yesterday.