Last weekend, the Sangha came together for a One Day Retreat. We had 11 people in the Dirt Zendo and about 17 involved in the Cloud Zendo throughout the day.
During the retreat we pay mindful attention throughout the day to our meditation, our breath, chanting, silent work, and silent meal. We slow down, but in the midst of discipline, our minds and bodies have a chance to catch up with each other.
This time, during work practice we spent time taking care of the building both inside and outside.
At the end of the day there was Mondo which is a formal question-and-answer ceremony. People take turns presenting short verses from a shared study text, and responding to questions from those present. The presenter aims to remain centered in their own truth without getting drawn into intellectualizing or self-doubt, and the questioners aim to more fully understand the truth being presented. Mondo practice can help us get to know one another better, and can help the presenter clarify the strengths as well as the edges of their own understanding.
This time there were five who presented mondo verses – three in Dirt Zendo and two in Cloud Zendo. It was the first time having Cloud Zendo presenters, and it went very well!
The next One Day Retreat will be Saturday, October 26th. We hope you will join us!
Click to enlarge the photos:
