By Brandon Rennels – True Garden of Faith
The poem below was written about a lunch experience at Plum Village during the winter retreat of 2012/2013
–
Bell
Line forms, patiently waiting
Shuffling of feet, clinking of bowls, heaps of deliciousness
Stepping outside, inhaling freshness
Walk
The sun, it shines
Entering the hall, seeing a path, straight ahead: emptiness
I’ve arrived, I’m home
Sit
Breathing in, breathing out
Opening my eyes, directly in front, I see Thay
Posture straightens, thoughts abound
Breathe
Present moment, wonderful moment,
Following my breath, curiosity steadily rising, who are you?
Zen master, reading contemplations
Eat
Consuming energy, digesting freedom
Looking at Thay, I crave acknowledgment, who am I?
Be free, my friend
Stand
We turn, we bow
I stall awkwardly, hoping that perhaps, we might speak?
He passes, without words
Calm
Woman approaches, announces suffering
Asks for support, my heart opens, I am here
Deep listening, loving speech
Care
She bows, I smile
An insight manifests; Thay isn’t gone, he’s within me
No discrimination, no discrimination
Peace
