An Image in Prose
Walk the gentle slopes of the mountain through a tall forest of pine and oak, down along the flowing streams, out across the meadow. A beautiful meditation hall sits with a view of the mountain and hills around. There in the sanctuary, someone sits in still repose; her soft smile full of the sunshine that plays with flowers and stones all around. There is a peaceful, relaxed, and friendly atmosphere.

Look out over orchards, fields, and pasture; a small flock of sheep huddles in the shade of the old apple tree. And there in the garden the resident farmer, assisted by a group of young children, tends the green leafy vegetables. Further along there is a circle of hands held in blessing and in song around newly planted trees.

Walk along the small paths and dirt roads winding between clustered neighborhoods of simple homes and dwellings. Stop near the shops to listen; the sound of mallet, the whir of a spinning wheel, the scent of fresh baked bread. And in the summer kitchen a group of friends are calmly cleaning berries and canning jam for the winter.

Observe the gentle steps and clear eyes of those who live here. They are committed to the cultivation of presence, understanding, and compassionate action; they have planted their feet in the soil of reality to create an environment into which others can come to learn the practice and discover new ways of wholesome living. And they draw forth from their simple life the clarity and stability needed to reach out into the world and serve.

Spend time here and ask questions of yourself and others, discover the path of transformation; discover how people, together with animals, plants, and minerals can live in harmony and in peace. Embrace the tender strands of fear and reactivity, and release your heart from the bondage of blaming and judgment.
Learn to offer your actions, words, and even your thoughts as a service to others and alleviate their suffering.
Center yourself in the sacredness of all life and the holiness that is deep within every person.