Mindfulness, Wisdom, and Loving-Kindness as Pathways to Volunteer Development: Evidence from the Buddhamahametta Foundation

บทคัดย่อ

This research explores the evolution of loving-kindness practice for new volunteers through Buddhist peaceful methods at the Buddhamahametta Foundation. The analysis incorporates comprehensive qualitative strategies, such as reviewing organizational documents, observing participants in natural settings, detailed interviews with 21 volunteers representing various responsibilities at Buddhamahametta Foundation, and holding focused group discussions with 9 meditation specialists and experienced practitioners. The research objectives are: (1) to study the problems and needs of new volunteers in meditation courses; (2) to study Buddhist Peaceful Means promoting loving-kindness practice; and (3) to develop and present a systematic process for practicing loving-kindness for new volunteers.

The findings of the research indicated that: (1) New volunteers encounter considerable challenges such as managing their egos when carrying out tasks deemed below their social standing, coping with physical demands and time limitations, facing communication hurdles with diverse community members, dealing with emotional regulation issues related to sensory contact (phassa), and needing to adapt in ever-changing environments while maintaining inner peace; (2) Effective Buddhist Peaceful Means that foster loving-kindness include authentic leadership modeling by Master teachers, a supportive community environment (kalyanamitta), the seamless integration of mindfulness practices into daily service activities, converting daily challenges into opportunities for spiritual practice, and being meaningfully exposed to the suffering of others to cultivate compassion. The study identified a three-stage developmental model: a preliminary task-oriented stage focused on basic service, an intermediate stage marked by mindfulness recognition and deeper awareness, and an advanced stage where tasks serve as avenues for systematic mental training. Throughout this progression, volunteers undergo a profound transformation in their understanding of happiness, shifting from material-based to service-oriented fulfillment; (3) A comprehensive five-phase process for nurturing loving-kindness consists of Foundation Building, Mindfulness Development, Attitude Transformation, Skillful Implementation, and Sustained Growth, all underpinned by consistent leadership modeling, strong community support, integrated mindfulness practices, and experiential learning opportunities. This study offers significant insights into the effective integration of Buddhist peaceful means within volunteer development programs, which may benefit similar organizations aiming to foster loving-kindness through service activities.