Frequently Asked Questions

Part of the value of Sangha is in finding and softening our edges. A wise teacher once said that when it comes to Sangha it is best if you let go of what you want it to be, and let it grow into what it wants to be. Let go, and let it grow. If you have questions beyond that sage advice, then below are some common ones we get asked often.

Miscellaneous:

Why is it called Two Hands Sangha?

Our name was derived both from a Thich Nhat Hanh poem “For Warmth”, and the lyrical inspiration of a Ben Harper song “With My Own Two Hands”. This was chosen because we feel our purpose is to transform the suffering of the world, starting with our own two hands!

For Warmth
by: Thich Nhat Hanh

I hold my face between my hands

no I am not crying
I hold my face between my hands
to keep my loneliness warm
two hands protecting
two hands nourishing
two hands to prevent
my soul from leaving me
in anger

With My Own Two Hands

By: Ben Harper

i can change the world
with my own two hands
make a better place
with my own two hands
make a kinder place
with my own two hands
with my own
with my own two hands

i can make peace on earth
with my own two hands
i can clean up the earth
with my own two hands
i can reach out to you
with my own two hands
with my own
with my own two hands

i’m gonna make it a brighter place
i’m gonna make it a safer place
i’m gonna help the human race
with my own
with my own two hands

i can hold you
with my own two hands
i can comfort you
with my own two hands
but you got to use
use your own two hands
use your own
use your own two hands

with our own
with our own two hands
with my own
with my own two hands

Attending:

Do I need to be a Buddhist to attend?

Absolutely not. Many of our regulars do not identify as Buddhist. One of the beautiful things about Buddhism and the Dharma is that while it is a religion for many, it does not worship a god, and is not in conflict with any religion. One very common concern is the "worshipping of the statue of the Buddha", and the possibility of that being a conflict. Buddhism uses Buddha Statues but not as an idol, more as a reminder. Many of the most well known Buddhists are Jewish or Christians themselves. Buddhism will likely only compliment one's religion if they have one.

Do I need to know how to meditate/sit in a particular posture/bring anything in order to attend Two Hands Sangha?

No. Anyone, of any level of practice (or none at all), are encouraged to attend. If you have a cushion you prefer to use, you may bring it but we have plenty of seating. We welcome all peaceful beings who wish to learn more about the dharma! We'd love to have you with us.

Are there amu other details I need to know to attend?

Not really, but all the info you might want and more is available on our "Attend" page of this site! We look forward to seeing you!

Teacher/Tradition:

Who is the teacher of Two Hands Sangha?

George Beecher is the the founder and teacher of Two Hands Sangha. You can learn more about him on the "About Us" page, or at his personal site. George started THS when he was new to practice and has since been certified through the (Original) Against The Stream Buddhist Meditation Society from teachers JoAnna Hardy and Vinny Ferraro, and in 2022 he ordained as a Buddhist Reverend through Heartwood Refuge's Dharmacharya program with Venerables Pannavati and Pannadipa. Rev. George Beecher's Dharma name is Acharya Khantu-Abatti (The Forbearing One). He is also the Buddhist Reverend for the Together with TRIPP community in Virtual Reality where you might find him as MondoSamu or Keoki.

What Tradition does Two Hands Sangha practice?

Two Hands Sangha primarily practices in the Theravada tradition, but draws on many wisdom teachings and across all schools of Buddhism.

Cost:

Does Two Hands Sangha charge money to attend or participate?

No! The Buddha's teachings have been offered freely for over 2500 years. In his time, the teachers were monastic and lived entirely off of "Dana" (Donations) of food and gifts from the villagers they offered teachings and service to. In that same tradition, we offer our Sangha as a free resource to any and all who wish to attend, regardless of means. Donations are welcomed warmly to help sustain the sangha and it's host facility, UUCG, as well as cover our low operating costs such as this very website, and any donations to support the teacher are welcomed but never required. We appreciate and encourage your practice, and welcome any support you are capable and willing to offer.