As a female Buddhist, I would like to know that there is a place for women in the Buddhist monastic tradition. I would like to know that there are institutional structures that can offer me the same support enjoyed by male monastics. Any tradition that teaches ultimate freedom from suffering and delusion should be careful not to create suffering and delusion through its institutions. I hope that Ajahn Thanissaro, Ajahn Sumedho, and all the other monks whose teachings have inspired my practice will soon speak out in favour of full ordination for women. Vancouver, Canada - 29 Nov 2009 |