ABOUT ME

I'm a licensed clinical social worker and retired Zen Buddhist priest. As of December 2023, I'm taking a sabbatical from work, and don't have a permanent residence. I'm feeling called to meditate and pray to the earth and waters, particularly in Ireland where half my ancestry stems from. As a social worker and a former priest, living ethically is important to me as is being of service, and leaving the world better than I found it.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

HOW I PARTICIPATE IN COUCHSURFING

I joined couchsurfing in preparation for a month's adventure in Japan in 2011, and I had great experiences while there. I love the model of Couchsurfing, and am grateful for it as I prepare for travels in Ireland.

COUCHSURFING EXPERIENCE

I stayed with couchsurfing hosts while traveling in Japan. I've traveled across the USA multiple times over the past twenty years, and always prefer staying with friends.

Interests

I love learning and growing. Sometimes what I'm learning is a skill like a new style of cooking or gardening. Sometimes it's a concept like a therapeutic modality. I enjoy playing music (primarily guitar, flute, singing) and dancing.

• cooking
• gardening
• juggling
• buddhist
• healing

Music, Movies, and Books

I don't have a favorite type of music, but particular songs catch my ear. Recently "Sunday Candy" by Nico Segal, "Hymn of Healing" by Beautiful Chorus. I'm reading "Existential Kink" by Carolyn Elliott and "The Poor Mouth" by Flann O'Brien. I'm listening to Blindboy podcast, Ezra Klein, and This American Life. And, I haven't been watching movies recently.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I lived in a Zen monastery for ten years. It was a life transforming experience. I'd love to share about it if you're interested.

Teach, Learn, Share

I know a lot about Buddhism, social work, shakuhachi, sewing, cooking, gardening, and living simply. I'm continually learning about how to live simply and sustainably.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I enjoy cooking and cleaning. I can offer information about different therapeutic modalities (DBT, Internal Family systems/Voice Dialogue, Shame Resilience, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing). I can offer guidance about how to meditate, set up an altar, pray, or incorporate other spiritual practices (mindful eating, mindful conversations, bowing as a spiritual practice).

Countries I’ve Visited

Bermuda, El Salvador, Ireland, Japan, Spain

Countries I’ve Lived In

United States

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