It was my first time attending the Plum Village core sangha retreat and it was also my third retreat with the fourfold sangha. Though I arrived prepared for the winter cold of Hong Kong, it still proved tough going for someone used to the habits of living in sunny Singapore.
The various bodily afflictions could be examined in detail while supported by the togetherness in mindful living.
Looking deeply into this body, I connect with the ailing bodies of my aged parents.
Knowing impermanence, fear disperses.
And this helped me set a resolution for 2014: I resolve to build up my body and mind so that I can better care for my parents.
Even when I walk through the darkest valley,
I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me
I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me
-- Psalm 23:4
This verse came to mind as the community did a mindful walk late in the night of New Year's Eve. The community flowed as a river, a mighty river that was both calm and protective. This is a precious community, a precious body.
It is possible that the next Buddha will not take the form of an
individual. The next Buddha may take the form of a community—a community
practicing understanding and loving kindness, a community practicing
mindful living. This may be the most important thing we can do for the survival of the Earth.
-- Thich Nhat Hanh
This affirms my other resolution: I aspire to be a member of the Order of Interbeing, to build up the sangha.
