Cindi Zembo

Dharma Voyage Rowing Haiku

Six oars in twelve hands
Meditation in motion
Friendship, fitness, fun!

This wooden oar, made several years ago for the Westport Watershed Alliance annual auction is clearly inspired by the design of our Dharma Voyage oars.   Having my creative energies sparked anew is just one of many unexpected pleasures I’ve found rowing with Dharma Voyage.  That this oar was taken home by none other than Bob and Sue Daylor before Sue became a Dharma rower is perhaps coincidence but to me is more a symbol of the community building that Dharma Voyage helps to inspire and foster.

Initially I sought membership as a way to stay physically active and be on the water, close to home during the summer months. Having been a long time jogger with increasingly tender knees, I was looking mainly for the endorphin rush of a good outdoor workout.  With minimal watercraft skills or knowledge and no prior experience in team sports, the first few weeks of nautical terms, trying to “row as one” had me solidly out of my comfort zone for sure.  Yet the welcoming acceptance, mentoring and fine fellowship from  all aboard each open row coupled with the gift of  greeting the day in the majesty of the river’s ever changing winds, currents, vistas and wildlife displays had me hooked on the whole of what rowing these wooden boats of timeless design is.

Dharma Voyage rowing is easily one of the best things I’ve had the good fortune of participating in for these many and varied offerings.  Until we can safely be together again in the gigs and dories, I continue to celebrate Dharma Voyage for the new and true friends made, great yarns of rowing adventures, muscles stretched and strengthened, as well as  challenges met and physical self confidence gained as I continue to age.  Bowing in gratitude to the Dharma Voyage Community!