Angulimala and the Wreckage of our Past

Many of us come into recovery, change our lives completely, and then get utterly surprised and disappointed when the closest ones around us still don’t trust or believe us. Some of us have to gruelingly trudge through legal repercussions for many years after committing to recovery.  These issues and an infinite of other problems commonly plague our lot, and in the 12 Step world, this is referred to as the “wreckage of our past”.

Thankfully, we have some beautiful and helpful Buddhist teachings to fall back on, including the story of the notorious Angulimala, a serial killer that almost killed The Buddha’s mother!

Let’s gather together and discuss what we, even the WORST of us, can do about this “wreckage of our past”.

Gary Sanders is a seasoned meditation teacher and dharma guide based in Los Angeles, CA. As the founder of SCV Mindfulness, Heavy Metta PDX, Boundless Heart, and others, Gary has dedicated himself to sharing the transformative power of Buddhist practices with diverse communities across North America.

Authorized to lead Buddhist meditation and dharma groups at Against the Stream Buddhist Meditation Society, Gary’s teaching journey expanded when he joined the staff at Portland Insight Meditation Community. There, he was honored to be empowered to teach in the lineage of the revered Ruth Denison.

Gary’s approach is deeply rooted in the heart-based practices of the Buddha, which he explores and shares through daylong retreats, workshops, and online sessions. His current practice focuses on Tranquil Wisdom Insight Meditation, which he has skillfully integrated into a unique blend of mindfulness techniques.

As a frequent contributor to The Tattooed Buddha community, Buddhist Recovery Network, and other communities and platforms, Gary creates meditation videos that make Buddhist teachings accessible and relevant to contemporary practitioners. His compassionate guidance and innovative teaching methods have touched the lives of students across the globe, helping them cultivate mindfulness, wisdom, and inner peace.