Flow is a word that was said a lot during our closing circle at Karma Kitchen Berkeley last week, and I think it's the perfect way to describe the beautiful day we had!



The rainy weather, the guests and the energy of all of our volunteers working together was most certainly in a harmonious flow - and it was reflected in so many moments: from our dear Karma Kitchen veteran Bradley bringing homemade rice krispy treats, to our Japanese visitors, joyfully invited in by Alex, who were moved to tears by Karan's Google Translate skills (who was trying to speak in Japanese). One of the guests, Shika, lovingly gave out Spinspiration-inspired hugs to a few of the volunteers later. To Pete's 55th birthday and dynamite desert extravaganza made by Bonnie...and little girls like Haley and Saira who wrote thank you notes, drew beautiful pictures and tagged guests in the spirit of generosity. Saira was inspired by all of the kindness games and had the brilliant idea to take some of the Act of Kindness Smile Cards, punch a hole in them, tie each with a ribbon to a rose to give out as tags to her friends and neighbors!

Gratefully, the rain didn't keep away our 57 guests and gave each of us a chance to serve them and each other. Carol, our superhuman, goddess-from-above dishwasher tirelessly washed dishes with a Zen-like vibe all day as Bonnie doled out delicious, pre-arranged desserts and drinks, making it easy for the servers to spread the sweetness to our guests! Vasantha creatively dished up neatly arranged meals with a big smile and lots of heart as Karan seamlessly moved orders and food from the kitchen to the dining area and vice versa, while still pitching in to help serve food, bus tables and tag guests with a smile!

In the dining room, Anita joyfully served guests with ease and brightening their day with warm, heart-filled interactions, as Bela was an immense help in orienting the kitchen volunteers and making the lemonade surprise quite sparkling alongside Bonnie! Grateful for all of the beautifully subtle and direct ways she served guests and fellow volunteers. Then there was Alex, whose infectious energy and positivity not only helped bring in guests, but also made the guests he served feel completely at home!

Grateful for the spontaneous magic of Karma Kitchen that allows volunteers and guests alike to shine with kindness and goodness!



Here's some more photos from the day!