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Awakening Together: The Spiritual Practice of Inclusivity and Community
“ Awakening Together combines the intimately personal, the Buddhist and universal into a loving, courageous, important work that will benefit all who read it. For anyone who longs to collaborate and create a just and inclusive community, Larry provides a brilliant guidebook.”
—Jack Kornfield, author of A Path With Heart
How can we connect our personal spiritual journeys with the larger course of our shared human experience? How do we compassionately and wisely navigate belonging and exclusion in our own hearts? And how can we embrace diverse identities and experiences within our spiritual communities, building sanghas that make good on the promise of liberation for everyone?
If you aren’t sure how to start this work, Awakening Together is for you. If you’ve begun but aren’t sure what the next steps are, this book is for you. If you’re already engaged in this work, this book will remind you none of us do this work alone. Whether you find yourself at the center or at the margins of your community, whether you’re a community member or a community leader, this book is for you.
—Jack Kornfield, author of A Path With Heart
How can we connect our personal spiritual journeys with the larger course of our shared human experience? How do we compassionately and wisely navigate belonging and exclusion in our own hearts? And how can we embrace diverse identities and experiences within our spiritual communities, building sanghas that make good on the promise of liberation for everyone?
If you aren’t sure how to start this work, Awakening Together is for you. If you’ve begun but aren’t sure what the next steps are, this book is for you. If you’re already engaged in this work, this book will remind you none of us do this work alone. Whether you find yourself at the center or at the margins of your community, whether you’re a community member or a community leader, this book is for you.
280 pages, Paperback
Published October 24, 2017
114 people are currently reading
641 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
May 7, 2018
This book is just what the doctor ordered for me :-) it's so important that we decolonize our meditation spaces, which to me means leaving *no one* out. As a spiritual community, it's really part of who we are (or aspire to be) and Larry gives us clear instructions on how to transform, as well as stories about the harm that our communities are capable of doing, inspiring the compassion we need to motivate us to change. I am encouraging everyone in our sangha to read it, especially those in positions of leadership, and we will make the necessarily changes so we can authentically welcome anyone and everyone who wants to join us.
February 3, 2019
I read this book for a class I am taking in mindfulness meditation. I finish reading it with mixed feelings. I feel that many of the ideas and thoughts the author expresses are both true and profound, I also feel that the tone was aggressive and hostile. He expresses his ideas about the oppressive "white, hetero-normative, able-bodied, upper-middle-class" frequently throughout the book. While I can read his pain, and I empathize with his goal of a neutral dharma community, I feel that he paints with a broad brush. His call for inclusions seems laced with exclusive language.
June 7, 2018
I think this book does a good job of offering a different perspective on engagement with the dharma from a voice (gay Asian-american) that we don’t hear from often in Western (read: white) Buddhism. It was instructive both to read what Buddhism mean to him, given his background and experience, and what he saw as the European-American cultural bias in Western Buddhism. It was also interesting to read about how he and the rest of the East Bay Meditation Center have worked to make it more inclusive for people of color and queer folk. I think he articulated the need for culturally specific sanghas really well, pointing out that most Western Buddhist centers were created because white americans wanted something that spoke to their cultural experience more clearly than the ethnic Asian buddhist centers in the US.
He also does an excellent job of laying out the challenges and solutions to building more diverse membership and leadership, especially in removing financial barriers for participation and for being proactive and intentional in seeking out and nurturing leaders, and in constantly building the pipeline. I think this is true across organizations that if we don't change what we are looking for, we are just going to get the same type of people we've been getting. It takes intentionality and creativity to change the make up of an organization.
For me, this book also raised some questions. There was a paradox in that they got to inclusivity partially through excluding straight, heteronormative European americans from their sangha (by creating POC only and queer only events, and by limiting the number of whites that could participate in retreats). Maybe that is necessary – limit the number of people from the dominant culture so that more marginalized groups can feel seen and safe. I certainly think there are enough sanghas in the bay area that cater to whites that they aren’t being dissuaded from the dharma by EBMC’s somewhat restrictive policies. I just wonder if there is a way around that paradox of creating inclusivity by excluding some people. Maybe not.
My bigger issue is that so much of the book is railing against mainstream culture and mainstream Buddhism and white dharma teachers. Maybe it’s a hangover from my punk rock days, but I’m always suspicious of that stance. I mean, I get why a queer person of color might have strong feelings about straight, white culture, but it gets to the point of feeling like just another us vs. them, they are bad we are good type argument. He also never mentions the fact that many of the white buddhist teachers are jewish, a group who have their own experience with oppression. Also, while there are a lot of white buddhist teachers, the majority I know of trained with and frequently reference Asian Buddhists, and are practicing an Asian religion. Which isn’t to say that they aren’t putting their own cultural spin on it, or aren’t inadvertently reinforcing racial hierarchies in their centers and teachings, but to call a guy who lived in Japan for years so that he could get dharma transmission from an elderly Japanese Zen priest “mainstream” is a stretch.
Anyways, those are just some of the thoughts this book provoked, and I was happy to be challenged and have a new perspective to grapple with.
He also does an excellent job of laying out the challenges and solutions to building more diverse membership and leadership, especially in removing financial barriers for participation and for being proactive and intentional in seeking out and nurturing leaders, and in constantly building the pipeline. I think this is true across organizations that if we don't change what we are looking for, we are just going to get the same type of people we've been getting. It takes intentionality and creativity to change the make up of an organization.
For me, this book also raised some questions. There was a paradox in that they got to inclusivity partially through excluding straight, heteronormative European americans from their sangha (by creating POC only and queer only events, and by limiting the number of whites that could participate in retreats). Maybe that is necessary – limit the number of people from the dominant culture so that more marginalized groups can feel seen and safe. I certainly think there are enough sanghas in the bay area that cater to whites that they aren’t being dissuaded from the dharma by EBMC’s somewhat restrictive policies. I just wonder if there is a way around that paradox of creating inclusivity by excluding some people. Maybe not.
My bigger issue is that so much of the book is railing against mainstream culture and mainstream Buddhism and white dharma teachers. Maybe it’s a hangover from my punk rock days, but I’m always suspicious of that stance. I mean, I get why a queer person of color might have strong feelings about straight, white culture, but it gets to the point of feeling like just another us vs. them, they are bad we are good type argument. He also never mentions the fact that many of the white buddhist teachers are jewish, a group who have their own experience with oppression. Also, while there are a lot of white buddhist teachers, the majority I know of trained with and frequently reference Asian Buddhists, and are practicing an Asian religion. Which isn’t to say that they aren’t putting their own cultural spin on it, or aren’t inadvertently reinforcing racial hierarchies in their centers and teachings, but to call a guy who lived in Japan for years so that he could get dharma transmission from an elderly Japanese Zen priest “mainstream” is a stretch.
Anyways, those are just some of the thoughts this book provoked, and I was happy to be challenged and have a new perspective to grapple with.
April 21, 2018
Inspiring and imaginative
An inspiring book. Larry holds these sharp questions with such compassion. This is a book, not just for being woke but for true awakening. Everybody should be invited read this book with an open heart, especially people like me; white heteronormative and economically privileged. This is a path through the limiting narrative of “identity politics” to a place where we understand we don’t like in a one or even a two dimensional universe. The breathtaking and staggering beauty of the dharma is that we are invited to embrace paradox - our individual identities as well as our collective experience. When we do that we open to a rich and fulfilling way of being together; awakening together.
An inspiring book. Larry holds these sharp questions with such compassion. This is a book, not just for being woke but for true awakening. Everybody should be invited read this book with an open heart, especially people like me; white heteronormative and economically privileged. This is a path through the limiting narrative of “identity politics” to a place where we understand we don’t like in a one or even a two dimensional universe. The breathtaking and staggering beauty of the dharma is that we are invited to embrace paradox - our individual identities as well as our collective experience. When we do that we open to a rich and fulfilling way of being together; awakening together.
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July 13, 2020I couldn't finish this book. Some of my teachers are students of Yang's, and I have a lot of respect for Yang's wisdom, but I could not get into this book.
February 21, 2021
Did not rise above his personal experience.
January 2, 2022
Awakening Together by Larry Yang is a beautiful book about his personal journey into Buddhism, inviting us to wake up both individually and collectively. Yang shares intimate personal stories from his own life along with his deep wisdom on how to create inclusive communities, which are open and truly welcome to all.
In first few chapters, Yang shares his past experiences, which he uses as a framework for providing an overview of the spiritual path and the preciousness of life. I enjoyed his stories and how easily he shared them. I was particularly moved by a quote from Tsongkhapa, in which he compares a human life to the splash of a raindrop, therefore we must make use of our time as much as possible.
I was happy to be reminded of the Four Noble Truths of Buddhism early in the book, which I had read many years ago, but they had slipped to the back of my memory after not studying Buddhism much in the past decade. Yang ended this chapter with the importance of mindfulness for ending suffering, as it allows us the space to create skillful, meaningful and transformative action in our lives. This gave me a sense of wellbeing since focusing much more on my sitting and mindfulness practice over the past year.
Yang goes on to describe the Three Refuges of Buddhism: the third refuge is the refuge of the Sangha—a community of like-minded friends who support each other’s growth. This made me think of the few communities that I’m involved in and how we support each other, both practically and spiritually. It also gave me the sense that I want to have more of this type of community in my life.
Yang then discusses the importance of recognizing the different ages, cultures, races and genders when transmitting the teachings of Buddhism and mindfulness, starting with have retreats specifically for PoC and LGBTIQ. Yang describes how spiritually minded people are prone to spiritual bypassing, that is, using spiritual ideas to avoid unresolved emotional issues, psychological wounds and unfinished development tasks. This allow me to recognize the problem of spiritual bypassing as it relates to multiculturalism in today’s society—and also in my life—because it’s so easy to stay within the status quo without recognizing the need for outreach to PoC and LGBTIQ.
This began what I would consider the real message of the book which is focused on how to create inclusive communities. Yang applies all of his understanding of Buddhism, mindfulness and social change towards sharing his wisdom. Notably, spiritual practice should value the inclusion of all things, all people and all differences. The inclusion of everyone is the only way to create what he refers to as a Beloved Community, which is one that embodies the values of love and justice in every aspect of their being.
This section of the book was very impactful on me as I thought about the different communities I’m involved in or helped to create. All of them are generally dominated by privileged, white European middle class people. I had some previous understanding of this, but as it turns out, I was spiritually bypassing and overlooking diversity and equity issues. This made me think much more deeply about inclusion within my communities and how I could be a part of supporting more inclusion.
Yang later dedicates a chapter to outward awareness. Just as mindfulness is important to be aware of our thoughts, emotions and intentions, he stresses the importance of being aware of our communities, culture, and world, and the relationship between all of ourselves. I’ve been outwardly aware for some time, but only recently have I started to tune more deeply into this awareness. Despite a regular mindfulness practice, I’m often not as aware my impact on other’s experience as much as I would like to be. This was a great reminder.
Finally, I really appreciated Yang’s description of brining mindfulness together with the element of the heart. Yang believe that paying attention—mindfulness—is a direct act and experience of love and suggests that a word closer to to the cultural intentions of mindfulness might be “mind-heartfulness.” This helped me to see outside the box of mindfulness into its origins of loving kindness.
Awakening Together made a big impact on me and how I think about inclusiveness in community and beyond. I’m very inspired to use Yang’s ideas going forward and will certainly be sharing this book with others who are starting or leading communities. It reminds me of the gentle wisdom in A Path With Heart by Jack Kornfield while also offering some powerful advice for developing more awareness of diversity.
In first few chapters, Yang shares his past experiences, which he uses as a framework for providing an overview of the spiritual path and the preciousness of life. I enjoyed his stories and how easily he shared them. I was particularly moved by a quote from Tsongkhapa, in which he compares a human life to the splash of a raindrop, therefore we must make use of our time as much as possible.
I was happy to be reminded of the Four Noble Truths of Buddhism early in the book, which I had read many years ago, but they had slipped to the back of my memory after not studying Buddhism much in the past decade. Yang ended this chapter with the importance of mindfulness for ending suffering, as it allows us the space to create skillful, meaningful and transformative action in our lives. This gave me a sense of wellbeing since focusing much more on my sitting and mindfulness practice over the past year.
Yang goes on to describe the Three Refuges of Buddhism: the third refuge is the refuge of the Sangha—a community of like-minded friends who support each other’s growth. This made me think of the few communities that I’m involved in and how we support each other, both practically and spiritually. It also gave me the sense that I want to have more of this type of community in my life.
Yang then discusses the importance of recognizing the different ages, cultures, races and genders when transmitting the teachings of Buddhism and mindfulness, starting with have retreats specifically for PoC and LGBTIQ. Yang describes how spiritually minded people are prone to spiritual bypassing, that is, using spiritual ideas to avoid unresolved emotional issues, psychological wounds and unfinished development tasks. This allow me to recognize the problem of spiritual bypassing as it relates to multiculturalism in today’s society—and also in my life—because it’s so easy to stay within the status quo without recognizing the need for outreach to PoC and LGBTIQ.
This began what I would consider the real message of the book which is focused on how to create inclusive communities. Yang applies all of his understanding of Buddhism, mindfulness and social change towards sharing his wisdom. Notably, spiritual practice should value the inclusion of all things, all people and all differences. The inclusion of everyone is the only way to create what he refers to as a Beloved Community, which is one that embodies the values of love and justice in every aspect of their being.
This section of the book was very impactful on me as I thought about the different communities I’m involved in or helped to create. All of them are generally dominated by privileged, white European middle class people. I had some previous understanding of this, but as it turns out, I was spiritually bypassing and overlooking diversity and equity issues. This made me think much more deeply about inclusion within my communities and how I could be a part of supporting more inclusion.
Yang later dedicates a chapter to outward awareness. Just as mindfulness is important to be aware of our thoughts, emotions and intentions, he stresses the importance of being aware of our communities, culture, and world, and the relationship between all of ourselves. I’ve been outwardly aware for some time, but only recently have I started to tune more deeply into this awareness. Despite a regular mindfulness practice, I’m often not as aware my impact on other’s experience as much as I would like to be. This was a great reminder.
Finally, I really appreciated Yang’s description of brining mindfulness together with the element of the heart. Yang believe that paying attention—mindfulness—is a direct act and experience of love and suggests that a word closer to to the cultural intentions of mindfulness might be “mind-heartfulness.” This helped me to see outside the box of mindfulness into its origins of loving kindness.
Awakening Together made a big impact on me and how I think about inclusiveness in community and beyond. I’m very inspired to use Yang’s ideas going forward and will certainly be sharing this book with others who are starting or leading communities. It reminds me of the gentle wisdom in A Path With Heart by Jack Kornfield while also offering some powerful advice for developing more awareness of diversity.
July 29, 2024
I excitedly started reading this book because it was recommended by one of the meditation teachers at the retreat I recently went to. I loved learning more about Larry Yang, a huge influence in bringing diversity and inclusivity to meditation communities, and learning about the history of how these communities started to form.
This book was a great reminder of foundational Buddhist principles. It did a great job of using simple language to explain the frustration and suffering that craving creates. I especially enjoyed the mention of "Mudita", which is when you experience joy for the good fortune or accomplishments of others.
I really appreciated the emphasis on the community aspect of practicing meditation. I was very touched by the idea that by working on my self awareness and cultivating a kind heart, which is a practice I've had for most of my life, I'm contributing to the creation of a better and more peaceful world <3. Something that also gave me hope was the idea that it can be hard to work together/get along with others sometimes, but as long as you stay committed and continue to patiently try, relationships can evolve.
This book was a great reminder of foundational Buddhist principles. It did a great job of using simple language to explain the frustration and suffering that craving creates. I especially enjoyed the mention of "Mudita", which is when you experience joy for the good fortune or accomplishments of others.
I really appreciated the emphasis on the community aspect of practicing meditation. I was very touched by the idea that by working on my self awareness and cultivating a kind heart, which is a practice I've had for most of my life, I'm contributing to the creation of a better and more peaceful world <3. Something that also gave me hope was the idea that it can be hard to work together/get along with others sometimes, but as long as you stay committed and continue to patiently try, relationships can evolve.
October 20, 2022
Larry Yang clearly and eloquently writes about how to apply Buddhist ideas (Dharma) into creating respectful and caring communities. This is a book for everyone, not only those interested in applying spiritual matters to modern living. He writes about topics of interest to us all; belonging, respect, ignorance, childhood conditioning, disrimination and racism. But most importantly how to build communities of caring, respect and belonging whether this is our family, our workplace, or society at large.
This is one of those books destined to become a classic and a must read.
This is one of those books destined to become a classic and a must read.
April 2, 2018
A text to continue reading and going back to for deeper understanding. Begins easy, then moves to the hard work of transformation. The lessons learned by Larry Yang and the East Bay Mediation Center are available for all practice communities if we are open and willing. Inspired and nourished by this teaching.
May 8, 2022
Read for practice period at Minnesota Zen Meditation Center. Packed with powerful insights on creating an inclusive, diverse community; developing diverse leaders & welcoming & supporting diverse practitioners in Western mindfulness practice; and the importance of community. Practical tips in the appendix.
October 22, 2023
Another book started during my teacher training class that I've just finished off. It's very very good for any community or sangha thinking about how to be more inclusive of racialized and marginalized folks. This white lady in a mostly white community needs to read it again and have more conversations about it. Will be recommending it to lots of folks.
November 27, 2020
Usable concepts across diciplines. I like the use of it by my Sangha leaders and look to use the principles in my work, personal relationships, neighborhood, etc. Thank you for a timely and essential distillation of what it is to be human...what it is to be kind...what it is to live in Sangha.
February 18, 2026
This was exactly the book I needed to read right now. The teachings are so applicable to all facets of life - both personally and even in my line of work as an indie film producer. I highlighted so many passages and will be returning to its wisdom over and over again.
January 8, 2021
Enlightening and beautifully written
A must read for all students and teachers of the Dharma. Larry shares great wisdom in how we can make our spaces welcoming for everyone!
A must read for all students and teachers of the Dharma. Larry shares great wisdom in how we can make our spaces welcoming for everyone!
May 17, 2021
The book offers a unique perspective on dealing with social divisions based on Buddhist practice (and Daoist insights). The personal accounts are heartfelt.
July 8, 2024
A much needed encouragement
December 4, 2017
This book is just phenomenal. I have been yearning for this book for years and not even known it. I can only offer deep bows to Larry Yang for putting this together. It has inspired me to continue to work diligently, patiently, and persistently for both diverse spiritual spaces and for communal liberation. The work is hard, and yet we are called upon to help support the process of awakening together across all the lines that divide us.
April 26, 2019
Almost finished it, just a few pages to go but have abandoned it for now.
May 9, 2021
Fantastic book
Excellent gem on building diverse communities, great practical advice and stress on the importance of community. Great quality of content.
Excellent gem on building diverse communities, great practical advice and stress on the importance of community. Great quality of content.
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December 4, 2017294.3444 Y225a 2017
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