My Buddhism and my career have always been interconnected. I became a Buddhist sitting in front of a bank of police radios in the old newsroom montreal starWhere I was a junior police reporter. I opened a book on Buddhism that I had gone to buy and felt an immediate and deep connection. I knew at that moment that was me, and I have been a Buddhist ever since.
In later years, I alternated a career as a television reporter for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation with odd jobs like spending a year alone in a cabin in the woods and traveling across India in search of my teacher. My coworkers were surprised but kind. Then in 1992, my spiritual and professional lives came together perfectly when I was made editor of the small Buddhist newspaper, now Lion’s Roar, the largest English-language Buddhist media organization.
I’ve had thirty-three years as editor in chief, and I couldn’t be luckier. I’m fortunate to find work I believe in, applying my professional skills in the service of my deepest values. I have been fortunate to edit Buddhist teachings and stories for many years, as there is no better way to study the religion. I have had the privilege of meeting many of the great Buddhist teachers of our time. I have been fortunate to work with amazing colleagues and friends who aim to spread the benefits of mindfulness, wisdom, and compassion.
I couldn’t have got a better job in the world, but now, at the age of seventy-four, it’s time to leave. I have stepped down as editor-in-chief of Lions Roar and become editor-in-chief. I will continue to create content, both written and video, about Buddhism and mindfulness, but I have handed over my leadership and management responsibilities to a great team.
I have worked in partnership with publisher Ben Moore for many years, and he now takes over as President of the Lions Roar Foundation and, effectively, CEO of Lions Roar. The leadership of the editorial department is now in the very capable hands of senior editors Andrea Miller, Rod Mead Sperry, and Lily Greenblatt. Working with him, I will continue to contribute as an editor at large.
As I step back, I’m reminded what a shared journey this has always been. I feel deep gratitude to everyone who has supported Lions Roar – readers, teachers, donors, and friends. This work has always been sustained by generosity and the same spirit will carry it forward. Your interest and your support have made possible everything we have achieved together – and it will be your continued generosity that will enable us to bring the Dharma to new generations.
I couldn’t be more optimistic about the future of Lions Roar. We have a great team and an exciting vision for the next phase of Lions Roar’s growth. Lions Roar is now much more than a great magazine and comprehensive website. It is a community of like-minded people like you, who come together to learn, practice and live the Dharma. As well as publishing great Buddhist journalism, we are now also a resource and companion on your path, providing the best of expertly structured Buddhist and mindfulness teachings to help you on your journey from beginner to long-time meditator.
I hope you take full advantage of all the new resources offered by Lions Roar. Your practice and your life will benefit. And if you can also offer us a donation this year, your financial support will help us spread the benefits of the religion even further. Yes, it’s a cliché, but it’s true that this world has never needed it more. We share this journey together. Please join us.
