December 25, 2025
Walking the Path Together
There are many challenges and obstacles that each of us face along the journey to awakening. But as the Buddha reminds us, we were never meant to go it alone. Instead, we can draw support and nourishment from the companionship of those who walk the path along with us.
Buddhism has always emphasized the role of sangha (community) as a foundation of our practice. Sangha is one of the three precious jewels, along with the Buddha (the example) and the dharma (the teachings). As Buddhists, we take refuge in the Buddha and his teachings, and we also take refuge in our own sangha of friends, family and co-practitioners. This means that we can turn to community as an ever-present source of guidance and encouragement as we traverse the ups and downs of a spiritual life.
“If you have a supportive sangha, it’s easy to nourish your bodhicitta, the seeds of enlightenment,” writes Thich Nhat Hanh. “If you don’t have anyone who understands you, who encourages you in the practice of the living dharma, your desire to practice may wither.”
May this week’s Three Teachings serve as a reminder and celebration of the power of community along the Buddhist path. | 
