A Volunteer’s Journey of Craft and Growth

In DAMI Buddha hall, people can see a busy man very often. He used his hands made a lot of tables, chairs, and other useful things.

At the DAMI New York Buddha hall, a familiar, bustling figure is often seen drawing lines, sawing wood, planning boards, and assembling pieces. From simple scraps of wood, he has crafted an array of practical and beautiful wooden items: stands, carved wooden signage, tables, chairs, cabinets, and bulletin boards—all showcasing increasingly refined craftsmanship.

This dedicated carpenter is none other than Volunteer Xia, who has spent over a year of his spare time creating wooden tools and furniture from discarded wood materials. His work has greatly facilitated the study and daily life of the members. Each wooden creation has become more practical and intricate over time.

(Photo of some woodworking pieces by Volunteer Xia)

Surprisingly, Volunteer Xia had no prior experience in woodworking. By profession, he is a lawyer. Yet, he carried the wish to serve others with his own hands. Without a background in carpentry, he relied on his dedication and persistence, guided by the teachings and hands-on mentorship of the Venerable Master.

Under the Venerable Master’s step-by-step guidance, Volunteer Xia overcame challenges, braved the elements, and gradually completed one wooden piece after another. His creations include:

• A spacious shoe rack accommodating over 100 pairs of shoes.
• Two large racks for monk robes, with labeled compartments for convenience.
• A sturdy coat rack.
• A square registration table for visitors.
• Long communal dining tables.
• Bookshelves and cabinets for children’s study materials.
• A bulletin board for sharing reflections on Buddhist teachings.
• Wooden walls around the porch, designed for durability and beauty.
• Sturdy wooden stands for supporting and displaying Dharma instruments.

These wooden creations also tell the story of a practitioner’s personal growth. Within this environment, anyone with sincerity can learn. With the Venerable Master’s guidance and personal effort, even someone who has never touched a hammer or saw can become a skilled carpenter.

In this modern metropolis of New York, traditional monastic labor routines may not be feasible, but the essence of “a day without work is a day without food” remains alive. The Venerable Master strives to create opportunities for members and volunteers to engage in meaningful labor as a field of merit.

From maintaining daily necessities to tending the Buddhist center’s space and organizing insights from Buddhist studies, every task reflects collective effort. Just like Volunteer Xia, many DAMI volunteers embody the mission of labor as practice, striving for personal growth while contributing to the greater good.

(Reported by Volunteer Li)