THE REALM OF GREAT JOY:
MINDFULNESS OPPORTUNITIES TO TAKE YOU THERE -- A RETREAT FOR EVERYONE

THE REALM OF GREAT JOY: MINDFULNESS OPPORTUNITIES TO TAKE YOU THERE -- A RETREAT FOR EVERYONE

You are what you want to become. Why search anymore? You are a wonderful manifestation. The whole universe has come together to make your existence possible. There is nothing that is not you. The kingdom of God, the Pure Land, nirvana, happiness, and liberation are all you.
--Thich Nhat Hanh

We have all that we need right here, right now. Where do we expect to wander in search of happiness? When our minds are constantly reaching for something more or something better, we miss the magic and vibrancy of the present wonderful moment.

The retreat is designed to offer skillful means to bring us gently into the moment using techniques that nourish clarity, joy, and simple, wholesome living. We form a community knit together by profound silence, shared chanting practice, singing, seated meditation, indoor and outdoor walking meditation, and work practice. In the sunlight of full attention, we bloom as flowers.

We enjoy delicious vegetarian meals, views from the mountain top, and total relaxation. While the entire schedule is conducted in the grace and spaciousness of Noble Silence, there are ample opportunities for group discussion and individual dharma interviews.

Both beginners and experienced practitioners are welcome. Experienced practitioners find refreshment and renewal at this retreat, and they model the strength of their practice for newcomers.

Philip and Judith Toy have founded three sanghas in the United States, all in the Zen tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh, including one at a medium security prison. Both have also studied with Soto and Rinzai Zen teachers and were ordained by Thich Nhat Hanh as core members of his order. Since 1993, they have hosted mindfulness practice centers—first at Old Path Zendo in Pennsylvania, and for the last ten years at Cloud Cottage Sangha in Black Mountain, NC. For this retreat, the Toys will be returning from a teaching tour in Ireland and Scotland.

One of Judith's essays was selected for Best Buddhist Writing 2006, published by Shambhala Press. She is a former associate editor for The Mindfulness Bell, an international quarterly for students of Thich Nhat Hanh. Philip's book of poems, Opposing Traffic Has Extended Green, was published in 1994. He recently retired as a team supervisor for the Blood Services Division of the American Red Cross.