My BYR Experience
By Kyle Nishimura | He/Him/His
Originally published: June 5, 2020
Two years ago, I attended the first BCA Summer Youth Retreat at the Jodo Shinshu Center in Berkeley, California: the Buddhist Youth Retreat (BYR). Going into the program, I was super nervous and unsure about how everything would turn out; by the end of the week, I had found an amazing group of people that I truly trust, respect, and care for.
“Attending this retreat not only provided me invaluable experience but also helped me realize the immense power and love of the Sangha.”
Nothing is more impactful than the unity of a close-knit community. Involving myself in Dharma School, Jr. Young Buddhist Association, and other activities at the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin, I have always appreciated my home temple’s community. However, the companionship I found at BYR1 opened my eyes to the wider picture of our Sangha. The beauty of the summer retreat lies in the fact that youth from all across the BCA gather together without having any prior familiarity with most of the others, except for the fact that we are all Buddhists. The ability of a group of Buddhist kids to bond with one another and learn so much together in the span of just one week truly is a testament to the pure compassion of the Sangha. I feel honored to be able to say that I have befriended young, driven, and caring Buddhists from places far away from my Bay Area bubble: like Denver, Seattle, and Southern California. Our time spent at BYR1 truly connected us through an unforgettable week-long experience.
Through a week full of sutra chanting, Dharma talks, Naikan reflections, good food, late-night chats, friendly banter, karaoke sessions, and much more, I learned how universally united our Sangha can be. The interdependence of all the youth, ministers, and staff involved in the BYR program creates lasting memories and emphasizes the blessings of community and friendship. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to have met such amazing people and I will cherish these memories forever.
