On June 10th, 2023, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto organized a One-Day Retreat. In fast-paced and demanding lives, sixteen participants set aside the hustle and bustle of their lives on the weekend and embarked on a journey to inner peace. Guided by Venerable Ru An, practices included sitting meditation, walking meditation, tea meditation, meditative meal, and discussion. 

The Venerable highlighted that meditative concentration goes beyond mere sitting; it is a journey of rediscovering inner harmony through introspection. It also permeates every facet of life, including eating. Mastering our minds allows us to appreciate the extraordinary miracles in ordinary daily life. A meal or a cup of water, is more than a meal and water. With a fresh perspective and mindset, the participants embarked on their day of learning. 

After lunch, outdoor walking meditation and sitting meditation sessions took place. Participants learned to focus their attention on each step during the walking meditation. The last session was sitting meditation in the Chan Garden, amidst the warm breeze and melodious birdsong, all participants found their preferred spots under the shade of trees, on rocks, or on wooden stairs to practice sitting meditation and observing their minds. They cultivated the ability to anchor their minds in the present moment, undisturbed by external circumstances.

During the discussion session, participants raised questions about the challenges they encountered in their meditation practice, and Venerable Ru An patiently addressed each query. The Venerable also shared Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s teaching on “All in a Thought” with the participants, pointing out the interconnectedness between success and failure, causes and conditions, all arising within a thought. Practicing meditation is about being able to train the mind to live in the world with non­-resistance, non­-judgment, and non­-attachment, choosing to be grateful every day, bringing sunshine and joy to all.

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