Belonging to Earth: Esalen September, 2011

"stay together

learn the flowers

go light"

~ Gary Snyder

As I reflect back on our week, so many strong images and sensations come to mind and body. The crisp clarity of the fresh falling water of Conoga Falls can still be felt stirring inside my body, "...waking the bones. Whispering, Oh, what is that beautiful thing that just happened." 

I appreciated the range of deep silence to dives into the curiosities of the natural world and all it's wonders. Thanks for everyone's willingness to jump into the adventure and the discovery.

Here are some links:

Belonging to Earth Photos Including 14 from Mary Beth

Belonging to Earth Photos as a Slideshow

Mary Beth's Photo Collection

For the Children by Gary Snyder

At Black Water Pond by Mary Oliver

More about Redwoods

More about Santa Lucia Firs

For Fun:

Hoop Therapy: check it out!

Michael Newman Mediation: See if you can recognize the banner drawing?

Anyone else from our group have a link they want to add?

I hope our paths will share the same trail some day soon.

Wildly,

Steven

The Art of Pilgrimage: Green Gulch Zen Center 2011

On the path... 

Here is a version of the Zen story that Jeremy told from the "Book of Serenity"

Zen Teacher Earth Treasury asked the monk Dharma Eye as he was leaving the monastery, "Where are you going?"
Dharma Eye said, "I am going on pilgrimage."
Earth Treasury said, "What is the purpose of pilgrimage?"
Dharma Eye said, "I don't know."Earth Treasury said, "Not knowing is most intimate."
Dharma Eye was greatly awakened at these words.

We were blessed with a perfect day, incredible views, and a community of 'pilgrims' on the path. I am so touched to see both new and familiar faces from Esalen, Tassajara, and Green Gulch.

My hope and intention of offering this retreat was and is to explore what meaningful contemporary pilgrimage might be, to build community, and deepen our connection to place. All of my hopes and intentions for the day were met. I am filled with gratitude and hope to see you all again next year, if not sooner.

Here are links:

Art of Pilgrimage Photo Set

Art of Pilgrimage Photos as Slideshow 
The Art of Pilgrimage at Green Gulch Zen Center

Thanks to Jeremy Levie for co-leading this event with me... and to Francisco for his gracious assistance throughout the day.

Gassho,
Steven