‘We will not end…any form of human evil…by trying to tear it to pieces. Instead, we can offer people better ways to belong and better things to belong to.’
- Resmaa Menakem
My Grandmother's Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Mending of Our Bodies and Hearts
“I am because we are” is a traditional African saying from the Ubuntu tradition evoking the inherent truth of interdependence and the promise of Beloved Community.
We all yearn to find and engage with others in spaces of deep meaning and heart-felt belonging, where we are each doing our own work in authentic connection with one another. This is the ideal of Beloved Community.
Our dharma practice provides a crucible where we hold the tension between our ideals and what is happening now, which sometimes feels very far from our ideals.
How do we show up for ourselves and others with an attitude of openness and curiosity? Willing to see clearly the parts of us that are both longing for freedom and those still in the shadows, confused, or actively resisting change?
These questions are relevant to how we work internally and also how we engage in beloved community. The answers are the ground from which true inclusivity can take root, grow and flourish, creating beloved community from the inside out.
Over the week we’ll explore the following:
About Singhashri
Singhashri is a Buddhist meditation and secular mindfulness teacher curious about what our world needs now and how to help. Singhashri believes in meditation as a means to awakening to love, beauty and truth and they have committed to supporting collective awakening and the joy and freedom found there.
https://www.facebook.com/radicalembrace
About Kamalanandi
Kamalanandi is a single dad, furniture maker and has various roles in Buddhafield. Since being ordained 8 years ago, he has led many retreats including the Village family retreat which seeks to exemplify all-inclusive community. He is inspired by the qualities of Amitabha and brings his Buddhist practice to a strong engagement with the challenges of the modern world. Buddhafield is a great fit for Kamalanandi as he not only loves but needs to be outside, immersed in nature.
COVID update - 31st March, 2021
After working with our health and safety advisor and in conjunction with the local council, we are thrilled to announce that this retreat can go ahead. This is contingent only on the government’s roadmap out of lockdown continuing as planned which will mean we reach Step 2 before the retreat– and that’s looking good at the moment too
We will be adhering to government guidance regarding gathering. The major things to be aware of are:
• Face coverings are required in the meditation tent, unless you are exempt.
• Outside of the meditation space, we’ll be sticking to social distancing guidelines. There can be no gatherings of more than 6 people and we’ll be asking people to maintain a respectful distance from others while meeting and talking.
• Keeping warm will be a little more difficult than usual. We won't be able to provide hot tubs or indoor heated spaces in the way we normally do, and there won't be room for so many around the campfire. Come ready to wrap up warm.
• We won't be able to provide communal wash facilities or showers. We will provide you with hot water, a bowl, and a screened area. Remember your flannel! **update 14th April: We have looked again at the washing arrangements and will be providing a simple outdoor shower, which is consistent with the guidance.**
Deposit: £60
Suggested donation: £500 generosity, £310 standard, £220 supported (For an explanation of donation levels check here)
Vehicle pass: £10