Living Inquiries

Current Inquiry: What is there to learn from past attempts at community living?

Why: The desire to live among like-minded people in ways that give life meaning and fulfillment is not new, though it has transformed in its expression over time. As more people endeavor to experiment with their lives and resources, this inquiry attempts to support their efforts by synthesizing lessons from the success and failures of past attempts.

Given the needs of our societal moment, this inquiry emphasizes three contexts:

Focus:

Methods:

Do you have life experience that could contribute to this inquiry?  Let's talk!

Sharing your story or data is an expression of trust. In attempt to be worthy of such trust, I have spent over a decade striving to cultivate a character capable of making ethical decisions in confusing circumstances. That being said, I am still in an open inquiry around the trustworthy stewardship of information generally, and am open to hearing feedback and concerns. 

Who is asking: hello, I'm Sophia. 

Currently, I explore "living inquiries" as an independent researcher. I focus on questions that support those willing to give their lives and resources to the many needs of our time. 

Previously, I've lived many kinds of lives: Buddhist quasi-monastic, academic researcher, cow herder, grassroots community organizer, nomadic wanderer, end-of-life caregiver. 

email: sophia@karuna.cc
phone: 631-790-7239
Black Mountain, NC

a note on names: some people call me 'Karuna' as an expression of spiritual friendship. This is short for my given dharma name, Karunādhamma, which could be translated as "the Truth that is seen in the depths of compassion." I named my business this in an effort to carry this vow forward beyond my spiritual practice and into my work in the world.