Question
In response to an earlier question, you suggested I come to the temple and tell you about my “skills” and what I would like to do. I would like to offer my help to the person whose legs are both paralyzed, to assist her in everyday life if she needs my services during the sesshin of her choice. Could you please pass on the message and offer her my help?
My reasons are simple: well, I am lucky enough to have my nursing assistant qualification and quite a lot of experience (12 years now). But I would also like to offer my help in a serious way that respects her privacy. In other words, if she agrees and you agree, I would like to talk with her about the specifics of her disability, to make contact and help her as best I can with the support of other people.
Sincerely,
After speaking with my nursing supervisor and making a request, I was able to arrange time off throughout the next sesshin and for the temple inauguration. If she would like, I would be delighted to assist her. Could you please pass on the message? Also, let her know that I am a state-certified nursing assistant with 12 years of experience, which may reassure her about the support she would receive. I think she will need to get in touch with me, and I with her, so that I can find out how best to prepare, assess her needs, and plan for her arrival under the best possible conditions. If she wants help, I will be there. That is all I wanted to say.
Best wishes.
Anonymous
Answer from Master Kosen
OK.
That is wonderful of you. We will put you in touch if this person would like us to.
Thank you.
Kosen