LockdownI sincerely hope that you are all faring well during the current phase of C19. This human life has many challenges and we learn, over time, to deal with them. This particular one is relatively new for all of us, old and young, and we are all in the learning stage; which can be especially difficult. The Dhamma, the role model of the Buddha and the Sangha, are references that have real-world application. The ways we relate to the world, the way we react (especially negatively) is not fixed. We *can* change – for the better. Kindness, patience, generosity, compassion – and all of these especially directed to your-self. And here in New Zealand it is like we (almost) have no problem. But this ongoing pandemic is global. We do the best we can – and often better than we think we can.
Monastery DanaThe regular offering of a meal has been an inspiring example of best – and better – for us here at the monastery over the last while. There is extra work needed in the kitchen, because you are not allowed in, but the wealth of kind, generous gifts has been so heart warming. We are tremendously grateful. Anumodana.! And because we are not able to meet you many of the offerings are anonymous. If you do come please leave a note with your name and any dedications that you would like made so we can offer our gratitude and blessings.
Kathina Sunday the 7th of November is the planned date for our Kathina Season celebration. Lets hope that we are in a ‘clear’ patch and can meet together to rejoice in the seasonal change and the end of what has so far been a very fruitful vassa retreat. And we *will* have the new cloister tent up! More details later.
Vassa UpdateIt is now just over a month since we started our community retreat and the time has been well spent and has passed without any problems at all. Ajahn Sudhiro just finished his self-retreat and is shining like a new penny (anyone remember those?). We have enough residents to share the duties so that everyone can have a period of solitude; which is so useful for cultivating wisdom. Things are even more silent with lockdown. Maechi Orada had to go back to work and Vipha and Noi are both appreciating their ongoing opportunity. Anagarika McBain, as the other ‘newbie’, has settled well and is benefitting from his practice here. No sickness, a little old age, no death. We are doing well. Sadhu. a few photos
Website UpdateChange is normal – but is it news worthy? Hopefully changes for the better? The new menu system; mostly to accommodate the myriad of devices now connected. The new photo gallery viewing-widget-lightbox. Again, with so many different screen sizes, presenting data requires adaptive, responsive tech. A dhamma metaphor? With so many different kinds of people – adapting with clarity, responding appropriately. There are a few other changes afoot. Thank you Kim for your design input.
New Monk KutiWhen does new become old? The good news is that Venerable Dhammavasa is making good use of the space – and enjoying cutting up the felled pines for firewood. The ‘outside wood-stove-box’ experiment has so far been successful. Some fine tuning has been needed but VenD. is keeping nice and warm.