Birthdate: December 24, 1957 URS date: September 16, 2022
A bright light, a compassionate presence, an intensely practical and capable human being, many will remember Sitara for these and the other many gifts she brought and freely shared.
Sitara loved Zikr and was a regular at Leila and Bodhi’s annual Trout Lake retreat. Within our mureeds sangha monthly esoteric classes, group practices continually drew and inspired her. Sitara consistently brought the spirit of inquiry of a true devotee and seeker of the truth. She reliably “cut to the chase” on worldly as well as esoteric matters, and we could expect Sitara to ask the most probing questions.
Sitara applied this spirit of inquiry and willingness to grow in her own self-observation and practice. She knew the importance of self-observation and the remedy provided by spiritual practice. A trusted counselor and friend to many, she understood the challenges of the human condition and helped others meet life circumstances with compassion and wisdom.
Sitara’s lung cancer diagnosis came only two months before her death. In those intense and difficult weeks, the love that poured forth from her family and community was intense and very beautiful. Throughout her brief illness, Sitara embodied tremendous strength and courage, as well as empathy for her caregivers, family and fellow mureeds.
As the time of her departure approached, she said “I have always trusted the Universe to bring the best, so I why would I expect anything else (in this circumstance.)”
Sitara will be ever remembered in our hearts as the spirit of a true Sufi and a dear friend.
Munir Peter Reynolds
Sitara-Joyce, was such a bright light! Funny, thoughtful, fun! and always up for the next adventure. I felt a particular kindred closeness to her (we are one month apart in age), and I imagine there was shared admiration both ways. Thank you for being my friend. Much love always. Muqadir
I got to see Sitara often as one of the leaders of the Whidbey Zikr Circle which met almost every month until covid took a toll.
She always had the brightest smile and this big open heart that lit up others around her as well as herself.
She often came to events with her “Sufi partner” Qadira who she was so close with, true sisters. I also remember them at many of the Mount Adams zikr retreats led by Leilah and Bodhi Be.
Sitara had such a zest for life, it was palpable and changed the atmosphere of any place she was.
Her community on Whidbey Island and elsewhere really misses her.
May she rest in the arms of the Beloved!
Love
Hassan