One minute of zazen, one inch Buddha.The June 2009 retreat holds a special place in my heart. It started out like many others, but ended very differently.
Like a lightning flash, thoughts just come and go.
Look once into the ground of mind and nothing else has ever been.
Manzan Dohaku (1635-1714)
The retreat was very well attended; with a superb head Dharma teacher and his running commentaries; outstanding moktak masters; evening chant solo’s and exquisite food.
On Sunday we had the precepts ceremony, where Ron took on the Senior Dharma teacher precepts, Kevin and Johannes took on the Dharma teacher-in-training precepts. And six years after joining, I eventually also took a big step in my life and took the five precepts.
What made the precepts ceremony more meaningful was the fact that a few outside people and loved ones joined us. The ceremony itself was also very moving, and while sitting there, a sudden realisation took place: I was no longer doing this for myself; I was doing this for everyone else. What a responsibility! What a daunting task! What did I get myself into!
At the end of the retreat, in our typical circle talk, everyone had very insightful comments and a great sense of togetherness prevailed.
The retreat left me inspired and excited to go back to the world and practice – and patiently await the next retreat encounter.
Lastly I would like to thank Heila Soen Sa Nim and Rodney for their teaching, time and patience!
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