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Dear Friend, Hari Om. Loving Greetings,
 As I sit down to write my annual fundraising letter, I am noticing how my mind reacts to the various requests for donations that I receive from other charitable groups. I see that I respond best to a direct and clear request: “Folks, if you have received some benefit from our organization and want to keep it alive and thriving, help us to cover our expenses.” I find that the Buddhist fundraising letters do this well. They get to the point quickly, keep it short, make it interesting, and sometimes even fun. I used to enjoy watching the relaxed, easeful way that Swami Satchidananda (Sri Gurudev) approached fundraising, no matter how pressing our need was. When asked to say a few words at our fundraising events, he would say something like: “We are doing God’s work. We are giving you an opportunity to be a part of this sacred mission. You are the one who benefits from giving. I invite you to give what comes from your heart. If you feel a calling from within to write a check, I encourage you to D. I. N. (Do it now) because in a moment your head is going to get involved and ‘bring you back to your senses.’” So the straight and simple truth is this: The Ashram needs to raise about 20% of its operating budget from your contributions. Once we cover our general operating expenses, there is so much more growth that could take place if the funds are there. More and more seekers are being nourished and inspired by the vibrant spiritual community of Satchidananda Ashram. For example, last year 12 students attended our Fall Basic Teacher Training program. This year, as I write this letter, we have 30 enthusiastic students enjoying the TT. With money to fund our growth, we can provide more housing, more staff, and improved facilities to better serve all those who are knocking at our door. As a ten year resident of the Ashram, it is my feeling that our sincere commitment to the realization of our essential Oneness, has created one of the most pure and sacred spaces on the planet. One of those holy places, and the heart of our community, is the Light of Truth Universal Shrine (LOTUS). It is the physical manifestation of Sri Gurudev’s teaching, “Truth is One, Paths are Many.” Thanks to your generosity, the LOTUS has been renovated, waterproofed, repainted, and is more beautiful than ever. If the hallmark of a good fundraising letter is brevity, I should stop here. If you have made it this far, thank you for reading. Please know that even if you are not able to give any financial support, your good thoughts and good wishes are always very much appreciated. May you be filled with peace and joy, love and light, Swami Asokananda
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