Meet Maitri Sojourner

Hello,  my name is Maitri Sojourner I live in Olympia with my husband, David.  Our two children are now grown and have “flown the nest”.  I currently work for the State of Washington, Department of Commerce managing three programs that help low-income people become more self-sufficient.  I am also a practicing artist, and am currently working in several media—painting and fiber work mostly.  In my art I usually explore themes of communication and interconnectedness.

About seven years ago I reached a point in my life where my Christian upbringing was not enough—I felt there was something missing.  I began reading various literature about Eastern philosophies, and found that I gravitated to Buddhism (and also somewhat to Taoism).  I also took my present name to more accurately reflect this new focus in my life—“Maitri”—from the Sanskrit for “loving kindness”, and “Sojourner”—someone who is on a journey.  I no longer consider myself Christian, although I learned many admirable things from that faith.  I now take what I consider to be a larger view of the universe—one in which we are all connected, we are all one. 

Late last year I was invited to Open Gate Zendo by a friend and sangha member and have been attending ever since.  I have come to believe that the philosophy of Boundless Mind Zen and the Order of the Boundless Way suits my understanding and fits well with my own spiritual journey.  I feel fortunate to have found the Open Gate Zendo sangha and I wish to continue to study, practice and enjoy this community of spiritual friends as I develop my spiritual intelligence. I have officially requested to become a a student of Boundless Mind Zen with the intention of becoming a member of the Order and I look forward to the continued opportunity to study with the sangha, my friends, in the Order of the Boundless Way.

Deep Bow,

Maitri Sojourner