After Eva Sullivan died, the DC Community Center was packed. Eva was a powerhouse in Southeast DC.

Eva had a sharp mind. She never hungered for position or status. (She was more effective without either.)

She chanted so much Daimoku, sometimes she seemed to glow.

There were lines of people at the service who wanted to say a few words about how she changed their lives for the better.

While I stood in line, I thought (what I imagined to be) Buddhist thoughts: “She has rejoined the Universe. She is not gone. She is part of all of us again. She has become our flesh and blood.”

This didn’t work. Tears ran down my cheeks. I wiped them away, but it was like trying to stop the rain.

As people spoke they reminded themselves of Eva’s favorite guidances:

1. Chant Daimoku to seek the wisdom of the Buddha.
2. A sword is useless the hands of a coward.
3. Never give up, no matter what.

Nurses and doctors brought terminally ill patents to her. She gave them hope and encouraged them on how to live their final days to the fullest.

Eva’s house always sang with Daimoku. One evening, a few houses down, there was a hostage situation. Police cars filled the streets and would let no one in or out of the neighborhood. At the same time, there was a Daimoku gathering at Eva’s. The hostage situation was hopeless, but Daimoku in these situations is most sincere. No one was hurt and the situation was resolved peacefully.

I wish that I could convey all of the experiences* remembered at the memorial service.

I can’t.

All that I can say is that a great woman has lived amongst us. If she is dead, let her wisdom be ours. Her compassion, ours. If we do this, she will always dwell with us. This would be a great thing.

Terry

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*Here is another experience about Eva Sullivan.