I recently had the privilege of attending the Self-Radiance of Indestructible Awareness and Emptiness retreat, a profound experience that gathered around 80 individuals from across the globe at the Garchen Buddhist Institute. With teachings on The Great Perfection, complemented by the insightful commentary of Kathog Rigzin Chenpo Rinpoche, the presence of His Eminence Garchen Rinpoche, and translations by Khenpo Yeshi, the retreat was a deep dive into Buddhist wisdom.
One of the most significant insights I gained was the realization that “what I want and what I need are often two different things.” This truth feels universal, resonating deeply within me and inviting further contemplation.
A few highlights from the retreat that truly touched my heart:
Breathtaking Sunsets: The institute's higher altitude offered spectacular sunset views, a daily reminder of nature’s beauty and impermanence.
Community in the Kitchen: I spent considerable time in the kitchen, relishing the camaraderie and workflow during meal preparation and cleaning. It was a joy to contribute to our collective experience.
Mindful Practices: The unfamiliar routine allowed me to reexamine habitual behaviors and thought patterns. I embraced mindfulness to help my body adjust to the new climate and to be present for others when they relied on me.
Inspiring Connections: Meeting dedicated sangha members, and monks and nuns for the first time was illuminating. Their commitment to good merit has inspired me to delve deeper into Buddhism.
Creative Sharing: I shared a draft of my project, "Entangled in Prayers," and received encouraging feedback from the community. They were intrigued by the Tibetan mantra I used, which was composed with AI, as well as the innovative approach to incorporating prayer flags.
As a poignant moment, I recall a miracle of a raindrop gently falling three times on my skin from a passing cloud, a simple yet profound reminder of the beauty in everyday occurrences.
This retreat has opened my heart and mind in ways I am still processing. I look forward to exploring these insights further on my journey.