OUR PHILOSOPHY
Our belief is that by applying ancestral principles to modern quandaries - people, landscapes,
and systems are transformed.
and systems are transformed.
OUR WORK
Catalyzing inner and outer regeneration through 3 pillars.
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1.) INTERCULTURAL EDUCATION
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2.) ECO-CULTURAL SANCTUARIES
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3.) GLOBAL NETWORKING
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FOR THE SAKE OF ALL THAT LIVES
OUR GUIDING PRINCIPLES
The lens from which we see the world
Holism
At our basic core, we are all one. We are composed of the same elements and the same essential life needs. We all want health and happiness, and do not wish to be distressed. Beyond all variations of form and beliefs, we share our essential humanness and are interdependently linked to an elaborate, breathing web of life. When one link in the web is suffering, it is without doubt creating a ripple. This recognition gives us a sincere motivation to act on behalf of all life, not simply short term self-interests at the individual level, organizational level, community level, country level, and beyond. Every decision, every work plan, every project is designed with life in mind, taking into consideration each of these "wholes" we are nested in. Therefore, a foundational principle in our worldview is creating conditions for the whole to thrive. |
Interdependence
The entire web of life is deeply, inherently, undeniably interconnected. We are part of a complex interdependent system. One action here causes both seen and unseen effects all throughout the system. This is the inexorable law of cause and effect that governs the entire universe. Climate change, social injustice, and environmental collapse are fruits that are produced through collective (and individual) action. Ancestral lineages point to the notion that the source of these issues come from the human mind. Regeneration is the natural state of life. Degeneration came from a mind that ever thought it was a good idea to cut the trees or steep our food in chemicals. It is this same mind that continues to choose desire and division over health and union. Therefore, we believe the rise of a just and thriving future is dependent on addressing the challenges at their root. Change happens from the inside out. A foundational principle to our work is re-centering a worldview based on interdependence. |
Uniqueness
Though our essential nature is the same, we are simultaneously quite unique. When we put forth the effort to develop inner qualities, our unique genius emerges. These qualities become our greatest opportunities to benefit the whole. This is true of individuals, groups, and cultures. Our rich diversity adds flavor and expression to the vast wisdom of the world. Therefore, it is equally important to remember our common humanity, rejoicing in each others achievements, and making sincere effort to refrain from becoming envious, closed, or divisive in every possible context. When each member has the conditions to express uniqueness, we can answer the big complex issues of our time and contribute to a flourishing world that works for all. When we look at a healthy forest, each plant, each species has a particular role in the system, and is essential in its healthy functioning. Our work is based on the notion that each individual and each culture are unique answers for what it means to be human and alive in an interconnected world. |
Evolutionary
The nature of all phenomena is change. Therefore, we can observe that the material world is impermanent. There is actually a deep joy to be found behind this changing nature. Nothing stays in the same form forever. Which means we have infinite potential to adapt, change, shift, sculpt, and create. When we look to nature, we see disruption becomes the stimulus for evolutionary change. In the same way, challenges become the source of wisdom for solutions in the world. We have infinite potential, it is simply a matter of taking action and planting intentionally. In terms of social design systems, when our work is centered around well-being for individuals, nested wholes, and the ecosystems we are part of- we can truly create the world we wish to see. |
Equanimity
Life thrives in equilibrium. Each member of a system has a valuable contribution, without preference of one being better than the other. This teaches us the importance of cultivating respect for all life. Diversity is strength. The variety of views, philosophies, and perspectives that come from the full spectrum of cultures, generations, genders, and communities provides a wealth of integral knowledge for what it means to be human and alive. Decentralized and distributed power builds resiliency and ensures the health of the whole. This can be observed both in nature, as well as the organizational structure of ancestral lineages. It is through this dynamic balance that we can truly address the wide variety of social and ecological issues that we face around the globe in a holistic way. The principle of Equanimity empowers every member and community to excel in their unique role and genius. |
Infinite Potential
Recognizing the preciousness of this human life. We have a unique level of consciousness that is distinct from other living beings and a special capacity to deeply care for all that lives. We have a marvelous brain and a marvelous heart- unique conditions that make it possible to develop unlimited potential. We can truly create anything we put our mind to. This potential is our inherent birthright and it takes polishing and practice to develop in a good way. When matched with altruistic intention, our individual expansion becomes essential to a healthy whole. When I put forth the effort to discover my potential, I can truly support others to develop theirs. |
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OUR DAILY DISCIPLINEThe conduct we work to perfect as individuals and as an organization
Generosity Morality Patience Diligence Concentration Wisdom |
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“Regeneration is the natural state of Life. Degeneration is a product of the human mind. All of the world’s challenges we are facing today are fruits that stem from 5 root causes. Change is possible, and it happens from the inside out.”
– Drupon Lama Dorje of Tibet |