Supporting the Wake Up US Tour 2011

Why mindfulness for young people?  Why now?

Our society is overloaded with intolerance, discrimination, craving, anger and despair. Young people are subject to stress, anxiety and frustration and acute pressure to succeed in their studies, work and social life. Depression and addiction have become a daily reality.

Each one of us has the power to understand why this has happened, and to transform the situation in our daily life. There is a different way to live, a different way to be: there is pain in life, but suffering is optional.

It is possible to live deeply and meaningfully when we live each moment in mindfulness.

Mindfulness is a simple, scientifically proven way to bring our mind back to our body, to become aware of what is happening in our present experiences so that we may live with happiness, joy and freedom. When we are mindful our minds are clear and at peace, and our hearts open and light.

The first Wake Up Tour took place in October and November of 2011. It was a great success! We have the inspiration to continue to bring the practice of mindfulness, joy, peace and togetherness to young adults in this country and the world.

The second tour will take place in California in April of 2012. We have received invitations to several universities, a couple of high-school and will offer the practice of sitting and walking together with young people in public places. A group of monastics from our Monasteries in the US will travel together with a group of long term lay practitioners. Together as brothers and sisters we will offer practical exercises in mindfulness of breath, body and mind, and share ways to cope with stress, release tension and handle strong emotions, including anger, loneliness and despair. We will share their experiences of using simple practices to awaken to joy and happiness in daily life and nourish a heart of compassion.

Your donation, no matter how small, may open the door of mindfulness practice to a young person who is alienated, depressed, or even suicidal, showing them a path to healing and transformation.

We need your help to make this trip happen! The money raised will go towards renting vehicles, food, accommodations, various gear and materials to make all these events for young people free and accessible. Wake Up is also driven by the financial and moral support of our elders. Your donation, no matter how small, may open the door of mindfulness practice to a young person who is alienated, depressed, or even suicidal, showing them a path to healing and transformation.

Incoming donations will be used for this tour, for coming tours and to support local groups of young adults in the Wake Up movement with bells, books and cushions.

On behalf of young people everywhere, thank you for your heartfelt support.