the “Watch”

This is another unique aspect of Lama Foundation’s organization. For Lama residents, the “Watch” is one of the most demanding spiritual practices, but is also one of the most important features in the day to day operations of Lama Foundation. Each Watch is from the new moon to the full moon, or full moon to new moon. The responsibilities are in 3 categories: (1) managing visitors, (2) community schedule keeper and “leader”, and (3) watching the spiritual and emotional temperament of the community. In effect, the Watch is the one who is the spiritual “guide” of the community for the duration of their Watch-period.

The community gets to know a little better about the inner workings of each Watch. They share their spiritual practices with the community, facilitate all meetings, can create special events for the community, and take care of all phone messages. Further, if there is a conflict within the community, the Watch is responsible for officially addressing the issue. It is quite a period for the Watch, especially during the busy summer months, and each Watch seems to hold their watch-period a little differently.

Probably the most important Watch responsibility is holding the “heart” of the community. Often, when someone in the community is having a difficulty, the Watch is aware of a feeling of uneasiness in their heart. They literally “watch” the community’s emotional and spiritual levels, and strive to exemplify the divine remembrance of inner guidance that is so important at Lama Foundation.

When people experience their first watch-period, they can experience a deep heart connection with Lama Foundation -- the land, the people, the circle of community, and its sense of “well being” -- that never quite leaves them. The words of various positions at Lama Foundation “coordinator”, “guardianships”, “caretaking members”, “continuing members” further illustrate this point.