Went to Australia for a short retreat at Aloka Meditation Centre in Jan. Over there, it was probably one of life's most enriching experiences and lessons gained.
My gratitude to Sister for inviting me to go on a retreat. Over there, she provided me with much guidance on Dhamma and about facing some of my innermost self that i turned away from subconsciously.
Not only that, there were times when Bhante gave small talks which i found both humorous and quick witted and yet at the same time, they were filled with messages that were full of wisdom and insight. Messages that will benefit one for a lifetime to come.
I also like to thank the residents, namely Angelina, Sudhamma, Catherine, Su Liang, Emily and Auntie as they made the extra effort to take care of my special diet as there were lots of stuff that i'm not able to take.
Many people have misgivings about retreats. Some think its lots of fun and enjoyment while some think its all strict and tough. I suppose it depends on the sort of retreat you are attending but the bottom line of a retreat is to get in touch with yourself, to hear yourself, to be mindful of the present moment, to be truly here and now, without any or as little distractions as possible.
Most time, there's morning and evening chanting sessions and thereafter, its individual time for practice with occasional interviews with Sister for guidance. Of course, we also help out with the household chores. Everyone do their part to maintain the place which serves everyone. Most importantly there, we learn to do mindful walking, mindful eating, mindful breathing and just live in the present moment, the true art to living in the present.
Its quite funny how Qin told me what she imagine a retreat will be like and when i relate to her my experience, its like worlds apart and we both had a good laugh out of that.
Oh by the way, i managed to get some shots of the Stupa there with a very blue sky adorning it. Its really quite a sight. Will post them once i'm done with the editing =)
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