Working BEE:What aBuzz aGoGo. About 40 people turned up through the day and the hoped for was attained; two tracks to two cleared kuti sites. There were some steep parts, some flat bits, some trees in the way, a couple of streams to cross and various other natural botlergurtabs – you know those bits? The furry ones with knobs on. But we had tools, arms and, as far as could be seen, all had legs. How could we fail. Some of the work was hard but mostly it was slow and steady with lots of fun and laughter. Even patches of warm sunshine. Many thanks to all who helped. Do come by and view the results. view photoss
Visitors:On Tuesday we had a delightful visit from Ajahn Bunku a monk of some years; 87 as a man and 55 as a monk. Quite the numbers. His wise counsel, good humour and proficient English made for a very pleasant visit. view photos. On Wednesday Bhante Sugatavamsa and Jinalankara joined us for dana and a lovely dhamma discussion. view photos Bhante Sugatavamsa will be spending a week with us on self-retreat taking a break from his busy schedule and enjoying the space and silence of a forest kuti at Bodhinyanarama. view photos
Carpark:The newly marked lines are proving very effective. Danas on Saturday and Sunday were both big with lots of cars; all politely parked between those lines. Thank you.
New Year Retreat:Friday December 27th, 7pm – Friday January 3rd, 3pm. Accommodation is almost full but all our retreats are semi-residential and you are welcome to join with all or parts of this retreat. If you want to stay in the monastery please book through the online guest form. This will overlap with our usual New Year’s eve vigil (see below).
New Year’s Eve:Tuesday 31st December. A once a year opportunity to see in the new year peacefully abiding in the Garden of Enlightened Knowing: Bodhinyanarama. The theme will be “Release and Renewal.” A letting go of the old and unwanted and a (re)establishemt of the new and wholesome. We will start at 7pm with chanting and meditation followed by a Dhamma talk. Group walking and sitting meditation until about 11pm. During the evening we can write down two lists; things to release and things to renew. The former will be incinerated to cessation while the latter will buried at midnight in the ‘Garden of Giving’ under the spreading kanuka to grow to maturity. All are welcome.