This month we are happy to introduce Vicki Kellis and put the volunteer spotlight on her!

How long have you been with DBT? 

I started coming to Buddha for You in 2012 or 2013 for meditation practice up on El Cajon Blvd and then started going to the downtown DBT for recovery sangha.

What brought you to the Temple? How did you find your way here? 

My late husband, Keith, wanted to start meditation practice and I came along with him. I thought that I would just go with him a couple of times and then he would be good to continue on his own without me since I didn’t need meditation, or so I had thought. From the first time I sat in meditation I was hooked. I hadn’t realized that the spirituality I had been missing from my life was in front of me the whole time.

What services do you volunteer for?

I volunteer for Half day of Silence, Temple cleaning day, and I co-host Monday’s Zen Meditation. I am also part of our DBT Sunday Recovery sangha committee.

What do you like best about volunteering? What are some things you have learned from your time volunteering? Any stories you'd like to share?

What I like most about volunteering is feeling like I am a part of something. Feeling like I have something to offer. I have met so many wonderful people through volunteering. To be able to be a part of a community that is for the greater good and to give back to a place that literally saved my life is what it’s all about for me. 

I am a recovering addict and about 8 years into my recovery I felt I was missing something. I came in and heard Jeff share the message- Think good thoughts, Do good deeds, Speak good words (I think that’s how it goes… I have the shirt!) and I felt like the message was so clear and simple. It seemed so obvious. The Buddhist teachings and practice has given me a renewed path to my recovery and my life. I have been through some tough times and what I have learned with the guidance of the Buddhist teachings has helped me move through those times with respect and grace. I don’t believe I could have otherwise.

How do you enjoy your time outside of DBT? Any hobbies or interests you'd like to share so we can get to know you a little better?

I enjoy painting. I have some funny critters at home that keep me entertained. I have a beautiful daughter who is the love of my life and I have a partner who makes me feel loved and happy. And… I have a friendship with Jeff and Maggie that is one of a kind. I couldn’t feel more grateful. 

Just answering these questions has reminded me how fortunate I am and how important it is to participate in life and to give freely what has been shared with me. I am honored to be able to speak about my experiences with DBT. 

Thank you, Vicki, for sharing your time, energy and skills with us all and enlightening our Sangha with your presence. We are so grateful for all you contribute and for who you are. It has been a pleasure to get to know you better. Namo Amida HUD!