~Opportunity Without Equal~



As the weeks and months roll on here at IMS, I have been taking week-long retreats when able. Most have been focusing on mindfulness practice (Satipatthana), while one focused on the cultivation of loving-kindness practice (metta). These frequent small retreats, held in the context of an overall meditative environment, have given me, for the first time, the courage to sit the yearly long retreat. This 3 month retreat, traditionally called the ‘rains retreat’ in Buddhism, is an opportunity unlike any other. It offers the possibility of extended deep tranquility and focus.

For a long time I have known about and considered these kinds of long retreats, but have generally been very doubtful of my potential. Even now there is still doubt and fear, but somehow this doesn’t matter any more...the desire to wake up has overcome the desire to stay safe.

So, after a brief pitstop home in PA, I will be returning in mid-September to begin the retreat. It runs from Sept. 20th through Dec. 12th, and will be an unbroken period of solitude, silence, and concentrated practice. I have received so much support, through people and circumstance, in making this joyful desire become reality. In fact, I was recently granted two scholarships significantly reducing the total cost of the retreat.

I finish my work here at IMS with deep gratitude in my heart, with much valuable experience gained, and with greater clarity concerning the next step on this ever-unfolding path. I am ready.

OneLight