Impressions

I
Arriving: May 5th - two-and-a-half months
Into the program,
Into a community of beings in silence.
How do I fit into this community?
Leander skillfully and lovingly guiding us
Into more awareness,
Harmonious movement,
Joyful explorations.

II
The land isn't silent:
Wind rustling the leaves,
Roaring down the valley;
Birds chattering, singing.
Endless music
Inner and outer.

III
Classes with Tarchin:
Wisdom, compassion, love, humour --
Dancing.
Weaving intricate, wondrous patterns
Of new understanding,
New possibilities.

IV
Anapanasati:
Breathing in, breathing out.
A myriad memories of old friends;
Images, thoughts, sensing.
Clinging for awhile - a short visit - and then -
Letting go.
Softening.
Confusion!
What am I doing?
Oh, yes! The breathing.
Dropping more deeply into calm,
Into the body --
A vast open expanse of unknown;
The least movement an anchor
Whilst allowing the textures
Of fear, irritation, agitation,
The rising heat,
To liberate themselves.
Experiencing the community called Body.

V
Dana to the Land:
Weeding the garden,
Knees wet and muddy after the previous day's rain.
Cooking for 23 people.
How to stay calm and focused?
Feeling the deepening confidence and sense of belonging
In this transient gathering of beings called Sangha.

VI
Final days:
We graduated this morning
Amidst laughter and tears, singing and dancing.
I wear my "sunya-scope" proudly around my neck.
Soon to be moving forward to be
Wife, sister, teacher, therapist, friend
An interbeing of teachers, ancestors, environment
Who am I?

Memories of old selves arise
And I reassure them: 'I am here for you'.
The heart seems softer, warmer, more patient;
The mind full of curiosity and question.

The Triple Gem is so precious,
Its essence beyond words.
As I leave Wangapeka and
Continue along the Path
I reaffirm my vow to unfold
For the sake of all beings.