Meet some of our friends: Sabine Scherer

Meet Sabine long-term friend of Jamyang and former volunteer.

When & how did your journey with Jamyang begin?

My journey with Jamyang began in 2014. At that time I was an Anagarika at Amaravati Buddhist Monastery which was a great experience but the visit of Lama Zopa Rinpoche in Leeds reminded me of where my heart truly was and so I applied for the Jamyang London Buddhist Centre volunteer program. As a birthday present to myself, I visited Jamyang London for the first time in July 2014. All the sweet memories and feelings of Chenrezig Institute (volunteered there nine months before) flooded back, and I knew I was home once again. I volunteered in total 4 times in 2014, 2017, 2018, 2019. Each time was different. Each time was an honor to be of service. Each time I felt saner when I left than when I arrived. Each time it felt like I was repaying the kindness of Lama Zopa Rinpoche for whom I feel great gratitude and devotion.

What does it mean to have a center like Jamyang in London?

I absolutely love the city center. Chenrezig Institute is in the forest, Jamyang London in the city. Wow wow wow. What a contrast and yet it is so important to be present in all kinds of different places in order to give as many people as possible the chance to connect.

What does the Jamyang community mean to you?
The Jamyang Community meant the world to me. Being a volunteer with an open mind and the intention of giving, I was able to connect to so many people of all ages and backgrounds. The volunteer program was perfect for me. The tasks that were asked of us were simple and never boring. Sometimes there was a ton to do, sometimes not. Personally, I loved it all. Of course, there were times of sadness, irritation, and disappointment. That’s part of the journey. But because Jamyang and its community feel like a very safe space in which I can trust at the end of the day, I was able to deal with the staff- or personal problems on a very different level and I always appreciated that.  Also, the event program that was offered was mind-blowing. I was blessed to attend so many wonderful events with so many different teachers. As I am in the process of immigrating to Canada, I won’t be able to visit very much but Jamyang London Buddhist Centre will always be in my heart and there will always be the feeling of warmth and gratitude for the chance of having lived and served at Jamyang.

What are your visions for the future Jamyang community?

I wish that the Jamyang Community keeps flourishing, creating a safe space for people to seek refuge and advance on their spiritual journey. May the community always be flexible and in the flow of life, generous and persevering joyfully in the midst of strange times. May the community stay strong together, always remembering the teachings.

Sabine Scherer, V. Robina and Sue Williams at Jamyang London
Sabine volunteering at the Jamyang’s 40th birthday
Sabine and His Eminence Ling Rinpoche at JBCL