A Weekend Retreat at Deer Park Monastery

Thich Nhat Hanh

Last weekend I had the pleasure of taking my daughter, Camryn, for a retreat at Deer Park Monastery in Escondido, CA. Deer Park was established in 2000 as part of the Buddhist centers established by Thich Nhat Hanh, a Buddhist monk and Zen Master who has written numerous books covering a variety of Buddhist teachings. Thay, as his followers call him, lives in the Plum Village center he created in France; and travels the world teaching others about Buddhism and mindfulness.

I was so happy for my daughter, who is now 21 years old and a Junior in college, to have this opportunity to take a break from a demanding school schedule to relax in a natural setting in the mountains where mindfulness, breathing, smiling, and gratitude are the primary focus.

I dropped her off there on Friday early evening, and returned to pick her up on Sunday afternoon. As required by the monastics, she was disconnected from the internet, cell phone, television, and all other electronic devices for two days.

She went on this weekend without knowing another person in attendance, and shared a dorm style, simply furnished room with three other college students. This particular weekend was set up as an educational retreat for college students and professors to look at their lives and education in the framework of mindfulness. Upon arriving and as I drove through the site and saw how naturally beautiful the setting was, I felt a real peacefulness and groundedness in the short time I was there. I noticed signs written in the familiar handwriting of Thich Nhat Hanh hanging in various locations on the grounds encouraging you to breathe, smile, and know that you have arrived, that you are home. And I felt just that.

I was excited to hear what her experiences were when I returned to pick her up on Sunday. She talked excitedly, but with a new calmness and centeredness about the mindfulness walks she took, the long hikes with other students, the discussions with the monks on a variety of topics, the delicious vegetarian meals prepared, and how she attended every session and activity planned, and meditated frequently. Whenever the students heard a bell ring, they were reminded to pause and be mindful, present in that moment of their life to notice their surroundings and be grateful. 






She had  made new friends that continue to stay in touch even though they live far from each other. She really connected to the place and the people, and found a community, a "sangha" where she could learn and contribute.         
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

It seemed to me that the time spent at Deer Park was so valuable for her at this stage of her life, a young woman becoming more independent and finding her way in this world. And for that I am grateful.