Alice Haspray, beloved wife of Richard, mother of Noah, grandmother of Oscar, and teacher, colleague, and friend of many of us, passed from this life on Tuesday, August 20th at 5:45 pm.
Her body is now lying in repose in the Main Shrine Room of the Halifax Shambhala Centre. If you would like to practice with her, anytime between 8 am and 11 pm, please contact Meg Federico at megfederico@gmail.com to receive the door code.
Please hold Alice and her family in your heart and prayers at this time.
Having fallen in love with Japanese Zen and begun sitting zazen in college in Minnesota, Alice met Suzuki Roshi in 1968 and moved to the San Francisco Zen Center with her husband Richard in 1970. One afternoon Trungpa Rinpoche came to see Suzuki Roshi. Seeing them sitting together surrounded by wisteria in Zen Center’s garden courtyard—she fell in love with Rinpoche. Rinpoche told her that as long as Roshi was alive there was no where else she should be. Following Roshi’s death in December 1971, Rinpoche instructed Richard and Alice to go to Tassajara (Roshi’s monastery in the Big Sur mountains) to receive more training in order to bring the essence of Roshi’s practice mind into the heart of Rocky Mountain Dharma Center where he wanted them to go next.
They moved to RMDC in 1973 and attended the second Vajradhatu Seminary in 1974. After leading many dathuns and when their son Noah was six months old, Rinpoche sent them to New York City, appointing Richard as one of his first Ambassadors. From the mountains of Colorado and a house with no indoor plumbing, Alice, Richard and six-month old Noah moved to Manhattan. Alice taught extensively there, including some of the earliest Shambhala Training levels. She also taught the Lineage and Devotion course at the 1979 Vajradhatu Seminary.
After completing Vajrayogini and Chakrasamvara practice, Alice dove into the Shambhala terma teachings. She has taught seven Warrior Assemblies—including three in Chile. She also taught many Shambhala Training programs in North America, Chile, Brazil, and Spain. Sakyong Mipham appointed her as a shastri in 2010, and at Pema Chodron’s request she served as shastri in residence at Gampo Abbey from 2013 to 2017, retiring as a shastri in 2019. She has been a student of the Japanese way of tea for many years, studying with John McGee Sensei and Alexandre Avdulov Sensei in the beautiful Yukoan tea space in Halifax. Alice and Richard live on two wild and beautiful acres on St Margarets Bay, Nova Scotia where she has continued to teach and explore the koan of the human condition.
Communications can be sent to Deborah Luscomb, deathmatters.ca@gmail.com.
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Tributes
Oh, Alice
Pillar in my life
Upholding the lofty vision of
Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche.
Sitting firm, strong and solid
1975 summer dathun,
Occasionally flicking your long hazelnut pony tail,
Like a fine filly.
In the kitchen, conjuring never repeated soups and porridges
From yesterday’s leftovers
While we squirmed in the shrine room, trying to sit.
Together, you and Richard laid the foundation
For a lifetime of meditation.
Bonding as new mothers,
At RMDC and Gramercy Park,
Overwhelmed, all,
By new beginnings without ground.
Baby Zack looked and reached over to baby Noah,
Side by side in the crib.
Now, your laugh dances across the decades.
Your eyes look back at me,
Mirror mine, true sister.
The fragrance of your discipline and devotion
Floats in the air.
Your slightly hoarse voice
Shares confidences, tells truths,
Whispers in my ear.
The mere thought of you relaxes me, comforts me.
Oh regal and open hearted,
So generous in letting us know you,
We rejoice in your life, our good fortune.
Like earth and the other elements,
You sustained, nurtured us,
So many.
With deep condolences and bows to
Richard, Noah, Oscar, your sister
And all who knew you so well
And loved you.
Dear Dharma Sister Alice, I remember when you showed up at 1111, from Tassajara… I remember you at (then) RMDC…the ruggedness of new frontier… I remember you in New York…a different but somehow similar intensity, most of all your direct playfulness, never hesitating to show colors and emotions. Please take care in your journey, much love, Elaine Yuen
First off thinking of you Richard.
So it's 1975 or '76 and I've just come back from teaching at Naropa and gone to sit at NYDD. Standing at the elevator, Alice literally collars me and says, 'you should become a member.' I was half amused, half taken aback. It took a few weeks for it to sink in, metabolize and then I did it.
Alice was funny & kind, and wise - Just now remembering listening to Alice & Richard relate the journey from RMDC to Boulder - when Noah got his name!
She brought much to our sangha - may all beings benefit!
(Requested by Richard Haspray and read by John Leon at her Sukhaviti)
For Dear Alice
Forgive these fragmented and meager first thoughts typed with two fingers near a campfire in Kenya… Alice was more than a special person- she was an extraordinary human, warrior, heart student of both the Vidyadhara and Suzuki Roshi, Dakini, loving mother, partner and friend. Although physically far away from you all at this moment I am present in sad and tender heart and mind. So many images come to mind - from so many times and places. But from Alice’s tuning fork note was always the same - her humanity…in the core aspect that was described by our masters but rarely glimpsed - being genuine. Never pretending perfection, but willing to show up as she was,
- including the full palette of her emotions, vulnerability, uncertainty and of course her determination, commitment, and willingness to show up in THAT moment.
Sometimes she felt like an immovable rock on the earth - never deterred- especially when the moments were tough - maybe a bit obstinate but more likely just bound and determined to work through obstacles to fulfill possibilities. Maybe, Alice was more like a strong river - moving over and around any obstacles - flowing…finding a way. Or perhaps sky…big picture, lots of accommodating space, with intermittent storm clouds…Or, or, or…she was all of it- a full meal deal. Enriching presence…
Others are describing and writing about the overview of Alice’s and Richard’s intertwined story, since they were always like a rose bush - appearing in a mix of blooms, roots, vine, thorns and blooms, in many times and places…as called to duty. But I will refer only to one from among the campaigns and life events we shared - in reflection on the communal journey and unfolding of the Council of Warriors. Some will recall how diffuse and fragmented things were in the decade or so following the death of The Vidyadhara and then the Regent, and in the early period around the arrival and emergence of Sakyong Mipham. Among the uncertain energies - the practices and coherence of forms, teachings, path and structures of Shambhala were weak and seemed vulnerable. During that time there were many conversations but little clarity that might seek to draw together the threads. Without attempting an accurate history, at some point Michael Chender (another gallant and brilliant departed warrior) and I met with the Sakyong around this topic and out of that (and who knows what else) came his decision, for us to pull together an initiative to create what came to be called a Council of Warriors including recruitment of a broader group of selected Warriors of Centers from around the world, and a smaller group of around 15 Governors holding the central seat to chart a course forward- with one simple (if not easy) mission - to make IT so. This would be a group related to, but not, contained within any other organizational forms. He appointed me ‘Warrior General’ with a strong and determined core of Governors but that was the easy part - everyone went for a new feather in their cap…and that’s where Alice came in. She accepted the post as international liaison - volunteer of course - as were all of us. But this was a ‘real’ job which she resolutely fulfilled for more than a dozen years. I think particularly of her determined energy in those early years - when we were not at all certain if or how to rekindle the embers of Shambhala vision in Nova Scotia and globally. Recruiting and empowering Warriors of Centres and creating from ashes the enormous (800+) Kalapa Assembly in New Brunswick that was really the moment that offered the Sakyong the doorway from empowerment to his seat from which many things emerged- from Rigden abhisheka to the Scorpion Seal path…and…much that ultimately unfolded. But these were only the first lynchpin moments. Through it all, Alice was the voice and manifestation of our mother warrior principle and the most relentless practical driver. She was indefatigable, and unrelenting, with humor, passion, worries, kindness and toughness in turns. And she was ever more a dear confidante, and honest advisor/friend. Tenacious in a mysterious way. And Alice and Richard became more than friends but two of Susanna and my dearest heart friends.
One element that stood out was their refusal to be pigeon holed into a fixed projection or attitude - even when surrounded by lobbying voices. Recent years have had a lot of that - more than should. Although life circumstance has not allowed us to spend much time face to face in recent years, Alice and I have regularly showed up to participate in events and courses that reflect our common commitment to open heart teaching opportunities that do not require adherence to any fixed point of view except loyalty to our root teacher and teachings - including themes such as the early CTR Naropa courses, the Druk Sakyong’s original Shambhala directors trainings, and the Cosmic Mirror series that reopened direct study of early Kalapa Assembly teachings. And in each and all, Alice has been a voice and presence for sticking to the heart of the topics. With the same directness, openness and joy that has always been your heart - dearest friend. Just writing this fragment has brought more than a tear- but as the Vidyadhara once wrote: “may the tears of our crying produce future warriors”. I know how much CTR loved you for all of who you were - he SAW you and it was all he asked.
From one aging warrior to another who just transitioned beyond this realm of aches of heart and body…
Tagtruk Dao, Tigercub Moonlight
Man of many feathers but little hair…
Marty Janowitz
20-22nd of August 2024
Dearest Alice, I send you wishes for an easy transition. With love, Ree
Alice was there for my first dathun. Very welcoming. Made me feel like I was at home in a way, that I belonged there.
The year is ending
I have not left my heart
Behind
Good bye for now Alice
Sending love all around
I met Alice at RMDC attending my first dhathun. She was such a strong presence - very brave, fearless. That month was the only time I ever really spent with her, but she made a lasting impression of a true warrior. Will be thinking of her.
To the Good Lady of The Good Dharma. To one of the earliest and best teachers when I started practicing 50 years ago today. You spent many years gathering the Beauty and the Wisdom of Mitsu-sensei and Suzuki Roshi. Thanks to you, all this was transmitted into the Sacred World of Shambhala. Much of this was absorbed into the Heart of this very slow learner. And somehow continues to spread to others who gather in this small Dojo in the ancient fields of Murasaki-no. To you and to Richard please accept this Heart-felt offering of Gratitude and Love and Devotion for all you did. May we follow in your footsteps. jack convery
I haven't seen Alice in a long time, but when the thought of her just passes by it's very easy to invite her in for awhile and think about her ever welcome presence, her humor, and the wonderful way she rounded out the energy in a group of people.
I hope we meet again Alice! Thinking of you too, Richard.
I remember when Alice and Richard came to the NY Dharmadhatu as ambassadors. Actually, I think Richard had the title, but immediately I thought Alice was extraordinary. I loved seeing her over the years, usually at Scorpion Seal teachings. She was smart, and funny and kind. When I read this morning that she had died, I immediately texted some sangha friends with the sad news. She was loved by so many people. Alice may you quickly find your teachers and may you have an easy and beautiful rebirth.
Oh, I'm so sorry to hear this sad news. Alice was such an authentic presence in our community for over 50 years, and a dear friend to so many of us. Sharing love and tender heart of sadness with Richard and family and all our sangha.
Ki KI So So Warrior Lady Alice. Thank you for all you gave to this world.
Bon Voyage Alice
remembering the Sesshins
we did together...and the Vajrayana cushions too
you were always a mountain of stability and love
Alice and Richard exemplify the amazing convergence of Zen and Tantra that took in the early days of the sangha of Trungpa Rinpoche students. Alice served in many roles over the years, but primarily as a remarkable dharma teacher. She combined deep dharma understanding and practice, and she embodied humility, earthiness, and humor. For me, Alice was both a friend and an example of steady dedication—with a hint of outrageousness around the edges. I will miss her.
Dear Alice
I'll remember you always.
Thank you for your spaciousness, your face of suprise with blinking eyes, your unmovable slowness, your patience and care to teach us, your love for Neruda and horses. What a great honor to have met you!
Dear pretty Alice
I will always remember you as the great teacher and wonderful person you are, an incarnation of the femenine principle.
I learned so much from you, not only theory ,you taught us how to stay in the present moment, with your way of being, your wisdom, your kindness and love for each of us, your students.
You and Richard made a great team.
Love for both of you .
I was so fortunate to have met Alice in New York City in 1977 (78?) and, for many years, she patiently taught me and guided me on this remarkable Buddhist path. She was enormously kind and generous - teaching me how to meditate and take care of myself. I learned more than I knew at the time from Alice about love and devotion - I, like so many others, loved her very much. She was wise and her smile and laughter were like medicine and music combined. Her authenticity was contagious and her wisdom unshakeable. With a deep bow to Richard and Noah, I offer my sad heart and cheerful memories. And a gentle farewell to Alice.
Alice and Richard directed and oversaw a huge expansion of the NYSC- in the physical space, the programs and the overall scope and vision. She was remarkable.
This wise lady who radiated big heartedness and great humor with her little knowing smile always reminded me that I was home. Somehow, she will always remain with all of us. Sending love and peace to Richard and her family! Here's an offering I found posted online by Madeline Schreiber: http://www.cuke.com/people/haspray.htm?fbclid=IwY2xjawE0PDRleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHb9d-3gsb_Ilu4cWyO5DRrx9_dT49JBHk6SZqlTlzch3uWZYAYQBYdiEzQ_aem_jumJDHe0jZ1N7DPQTuqZQg
Svaha! Sweet warrior Queen, Alice. We all had the good fortune to practice together with Roshi, and we shared the same connection to Trungpa Rinpoche when he appeared. You and Richard put me up under your apartment stairs, like Harry Potter, when I came to Boulder in ’72. Thank you both for your ardent Bodhisattva activity which continues. You now soar through the space of Dharmadatu with Roshi and Rinpoche.
❤️❤️❤️🙏🙏🙏🌈🌈🌈
Jack
Alice was my 1st meditation instructor in New York We also became friends because my daughter was around the same age Noah & we would switch off getting babysitters for them for night events at what was then New York Dharmadhatu, 'depositing' our respective children to whichever home had hired the babysitter, and come to get him/her the next day. I am saddened to hear of her death, but I have no doubt given her practice & service to the sangha, she is bound for a great rebirth!
Such good memories! 1973 Seminary, The golden years at the NY Dharmdhatu, Chile, the list goes on. I love you, Alice. Richard, I send you my love as well.
Gerry
Alice,
You will always remain in my mind as a devoted practitioner, who thought nothing of washing dishes each morning at the Dharmadhatu in NYC when Richard was appointed our first Ambassador in the late 1970’s. Each morning you would come to the center in Gramercy Park - across the street from your apartment, and clean up. And you always did it with a smile on your face. So many fond memories of you dearest Alice. Now you are onto your next great adventure. Love, Rochelle and Nicolep
Dear Family of Alice:
I believe that Alice was the kindest woman that I ever met in the sangha. She was immensely spacious and elegant in expressing the dharma. And always listening….Please accept my condolences.
Jillian Sarkady
[21/8, 10:48] Francesca Nilo: My dear dear Alice , you went to the winds, you went to the clouds here we stay with you in our hearts.
I love you
I thank you for so much.
For your easy smile
The sound of your laughter.
For the way you aproach the altar
For the way of teaching:
Deering, softly, meloudios and sharp, direct and full of femmenine play.
Dear Alice, though it was many years ago, I see you sitting in your perfect Buddha posture, serious, but with a crack of a smile at the corner of your lips.
Be well and safe journey
Jud
Shocking ..sad but as CTR said “ you will be dropping like flies.”
My heart is with her
