“The good done by an individual accumulates little by little. As time goes on, the little acts of virtue accumulate, until the doer of good is totally filled with it.” —The Dhammapada, v122
A Review From Tricycle Magazine
"Kusala Bhikshu’s colorful account covers twenty years of “doing Buddhism rather than being Buddhism.” Kusala traveled around Los Angeles by motorcycle and served as a chaplain at a prison, a juvenile detention camp, and a hospital. He was also a ride-along chaplain for an Orange County police department.
His portraits of suffering people at the lowest points of their lives makes for elevated reading, buoyed by Kusala’s unfailing compassion and intrepid sense of humor. It is often his doubts and humility in the face of hostility that win people over: He is not afraid to say, “I don’t know.” -- Tricycle Magazine / Fall 2024 / "What We're Reading"
An unfiltered, darkly humorous reflection on 20 years of volunteering in Los Angeles’s hospitals, prison, juvenile hall, and the police department as a ride-along chaplain.
Through poignant anecdotes and reflections, Kusala reveals the transformative power of Buddhist principles in the midst of everyday chaos. The stories demonstrate how compassion, patience, generosity, and resilience can be lived out in the most challenging circumstances.
What Reader Say
"I'm finding your book both interesting and well written, and I like the way you gently weave in your Buddhist reflections on what you're seeing or experiencing." - Fr. William Skudlarek, OSB, Secretary General of Monastic Interreligious Dialogue
"It’s very well written and insightful. It feels intimate and authentic. I like the balance of Buddhist thinking and humor." - Kev R.
"Good morning! I just wanted to let you know that I finished the last page of your book, and it was such a beautiful read. Truth be told, I couldn’t put it down. It gave me a lot to think about, and it was also just a darn good yarn. Thank you for writing it" - Kojun
"This book is good! I'm enjoying it... I've had to put the book down and reflect on simple but profound sentences like this, "It reminded me that the seed of ignorance and delusion are carried deeply within us, and have potential to take root at anytime" (page 68). The book provokes contemplation and reflection... Thank you!" - Horton M.
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"I'm happy people find the book useful. I think the practice of Buddhism is done 'on and off the cushion' when we face difficult circumstances and or people. Buddhist practice is about applying the dharma to the challenges of everyday life."—Kusala Bhikshu
Kusala Bhikshu resides at International Buddhist Meditation Center in Korea Town, Los Angeles. His has been speaking to secular and religious audiences for over 25 years.
