What a beautiful time I’ve had since I first arrived at the Wangapeka. Seeing seasons change, nature grow and flourish… what an interesting journey of growth I’ve been through. It’s not just this beautiful piece of earth, but the energy you feel flowing through everything. Seeing the love and energy put into this place… everything made with generosity and a dream. I can see the teaching in every person who comes in. Everybody has something to contribute, to teach. Seeing the Sangha members on the weekend retreats, sharing what they have to give, them teaching me so much in so many different ways, and seeing new people come up, then change and leave as different people. Something beautiful happens to people who come here. They’re touched by love, acceptance and appreciation for who they are. You feel seen here, and welcomed – to be yourself and express yourself in every way you need to.
I’m enjoying this life a lot and feel so grateful for it. Working outside is sometimes challenging but it never feels like work. I’m just living a life I want to live, and giving what I have and want to give. I have the space and time to practice meditation, and feel supported by everything around me. And I know there are always people to call, to ask for advice. There’s always support from many people in the background. I hope this place will give a lot to many people yet to come.
I’ve learned a lot in so many different ways. Doing a lot of the outside work, things I’ve never done or done much before: chain sawing, splitting wood, mowing grass, clearing areas, gardening etc. I’m so enjoying being physical, getting stronger and more fit, as well as being outside under the sun surrounded by birds and so much other life. This morning I saw another Weka family passing through, rabbits everywhere, a sheep with her lamb and all the little creatures on the ground.
I’ve been cooking a lot too, for the weekend retreats. I really enjoy making menus using as many things from the garden as I can. The garden is looking beautiful: a lot of new planted veggies ready to grow and nourish people on the next retreats. Even climbing up to Omahu carrying heavy things is a pleasure – coming up and seeing that view!
I organized a work weekend it was very successful; we got so much done with a few more hands. Working together gives a good, powerful energy. I like everything that I do here and try to see the value of every job, hoping to make this place go on, make people feel safe and nourished. And there’s so much more that can be done, specifically on the other hillside, clearing tees and maintaining tracks. Sharing the time and space together feels really good!