Wednesday, March 11, 2015

Free, Wild, Simple, Silent, Horizontal: Roots of Trees Principles


What should be done for his disciples out of compassion by a Teacher who seeks their welfare and has compassion for them, that I have done for you, Ānanda.  There are these roots of trees, these empty huts.  Meditate, Ānānda, do not delay, or else you will regret it later. This is my instruction to you.   (MN 152.18)

Roots of Trees Sesshinkai (retreat club) is an informal group for self-organizing DIY meditation intensives in the wilderness.
Principles
1. Free. The foundational principle is that retreats must be free for participants. Dana (freely given generosity) is accepted from people who want to "pay it forward" and make it possible for others to sit.
2. Wild. We recognize the unique value of practicing in quiet, natural places. Staying close to nature, we may catch a glimpse of our true nature. National forests are ideal because they conform to the first two principles.
3.  Simple. We embrace frugality, simplicity, and a spirit of renunciation. We practice "original affluence," finding satisfaction and joy in having just the basics. This is how we keep it cheap. This is how we keep it real.
4. Silent. Retreats are conducted in noble silence.
5. Horizontal. Roots of Trees is a club, not an organization. It is and must remain leaderless.
Anyone can organize a retreat that conforms to these principles and call it a Roots of Trees retreat. 

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