Steven: Finding Compassion in Everyday Life Through the Plum Village Tradition

Steven

Bozeman, MT

Raised in a socially engaged Christian community but searching for a more experiential spiritual path, Steven found his home in the Plum Village tradition of Zen Buddhism founded by Thich Nhat Hanh. What drew him to Buddhism was its emphasis on practice over belief. Rather than asking for faith in abstract ideas, the Dharma invited him to cultivate mindfulness, compassion, and ethical living in the ordinary moments of daily life.

Over the years, Steven's practice has expanded far beyond formal meditation. Walking meditation, mindful work, deep listening, and noble silence have become ways of relating more fully to himself, his family, and the world around him. As a member of the Order of Interbeing and a Sangha leader, he has embraced engaged Buddhism—not as activism fueled by anger, but as compassionate action grounded in presence and understanding.

His story demonstrates that Buddhism is not about escaping the world but about engaging it with greater awareness, kindness, and responsibility. Through the simple yet profound practices of the Plum Village tradition, Steven continues to discover that lasting transformation begins with the way we breathe, speak, listen, and show up for one another.

Experience

15-30 Years XP

Tradition

Mahayana

Background

Steven resides in Bozeman, Montana, with his wife and 13-year-old son, accompanied by a couple of cats. Despite a professional background in science education and media production, Steven now primarily fulfills the role of a house spouse, dedicating himself to supporting his family, Sangha community, and Dharma community.

A digital artist and enthusiast of photography and outdoor activities, Steven finds joy in creating art and contributing to the beauty of the world. His commitment to fostering relationships and communities stems from a deep desire to bring more beauty into the world. However, he acknowledges the challenges he faced in establishing connections earlier in life, crediting his Dharma practice for helping align his aspirations with skills and abilities.

Raised in a unique United Methodist Church in Portland, Oregon, Steven’s upbringing emphasized social justice and inclusiveness. Despite not being drawn to the metaphysics of Christian theology, he retained a commitment to ethical living and inclusivity. In 2006, a talk by Michael Soborski, a former monk at Plum Village, deeply resonated with Steven, leading him to attend a Montana Open Way retreat. This marked the beginning of his engagement with the Plum Village tradition.

Steven’s retreat experience was transformative, providing a sense of grounding and reassurance. Despite initial anxiety about fitting into the practice, he found the Sangha welcoming. Returning home, he discovered a practice rather than seeking a guru, influenced by Thich Nhat Hanh’s philosophy that the next Buddha is the Sangha. Steven became an integral part of the Open Way Sangha in Missoula, actively contributing to the community’s practice and leadership. Grateful for the inclusiveness and training he received, Steven continues his involvement in Sangha building and remains connected to the Plum Village tradition.

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