This June several DRBU students traveled to Oregon to join the Buddha Root Farm retreat. We asked them to tell us about their experiences.

Anthony Santana, BA Class of 2027

My intention for coming to Buddha Root Farm was to deepen my devotion, continue to open my heart to the practices of Guan Yin, and immerse myself in the mystical nature of the Oregon coast. It was also a fertile environment to test my relationship with living in the simplicity of nature. 

At the forefront of my experience was expansion and increased awareness of my surroundings. This meant everything from the wildlife (it was crucial to be aware of all the hornet nests), plant life, and other subtle life forms. Not only that, but this also meant an increased social awareness as we had to coordinate our everyday lives around the needs of others. Last but not least was the awareness of mental states. Within these microcosms of existence there were hills to get over, but nonetheless I found myself returning to the spirit of service and being able to merge with the community and the land of Turtle Mountain. Sometimes this looked like helping with the construction projects for the new facilities or melting into the chill river.

What stands out in my mind is hearing the retreat participants talk about their pai weis. There was a lot of vulnerability and raw emotion in sharing the experience and hardships of a deceased person or a dear person in hardship. I felt it deepened my drive for the session. 

In every Guan Yin session I have attended, I am constantly being reminded of the power and joy of giving and creating for others—especially in such a pure community that was so willing to undergo arduous labor. Further, I proved to myself I really don’t need a ton to survive or to be content: I am completely content in the simplicity of the outdoors. I also can officially say Oregon is the most magical state in North America.

Patrick Chin, BA Class of 2027

I’ve heard stories from other people who have gone to Buddha Root Farm before and I wanted to experience it myself!

Being out in the forest, sleeping in tents, bearing the cold and wet socks pushed me to be uncomfortable. But from that discomfort I had the support of a warm community, good food and laughter to foster my cultivation, and as a whole, everyone’s cultivation.

Doing work week was my most memorable moment. Clearing branches, digging, cleaning, dusting and moving stuff, all together as a whole was an amazing experience. For people from all walks of life to be able to work together so easily is no common feat, yet we pulled it off.

I’ve always liked the concept of sleeping outdoors, but I’ve gained more gratitude for a warm room and bed now.