The weather seems to be moderating a little bit, many roads are good to passable, and White Salmon hasn’t had temperatures in the teens or single digits for a couple of weeks.
Perhaps the monks can now settle into more of a normal “Winter Retreat” routine, rather than working on repairs, heavy-duty snow removal or preventing new snow/ice problems.
February Events: A Quiet Month
- Venerable Saddhammo visits Jan. 31 – Feb. 7 (approx. dates)
- Meditation with the Monks, Tuesdays, 6:30-8:00 pm, Yoga Samadhi, White Salmon, 6:30 – 8:00 pm
Keeping it Kind of Quiet Through March
With all the snow, ice and cold-related work, Ajahn Sudanto and Venerable Kondañño haven’t had the extended period of relative silence, meditation and study that usually defines Winter Retreat. This normally is an important time of intense practice and renewal for monastics.
Their Winter Retreat “officially” continues through February, but the monks will try to maintain a retreat atmosphere through March. You can help them do this for the next couple of months by curtailing unnecessary talking, offering them food for their daily meal,* or giving your time if it’s needed. This type of support reduces demands on their time, which helps them focus on their practice as much as possible. (Note: It’s OK to say hello or ask Dhamma questions after offering a weekend meal or at Tuesday night meditation!)
* This is a daily need, throughout the year. Please see the Support page or contact the meal dana coordinator for information or to schedule a meal offering.