“GETTING THE HANG of RETREATS”

(or "God is an Action")

by Stephanie Nash
www.MindfulnessArts.org

(Steph's Take on the Shinzen Young Retreat - July 1999)

So I guess this concludes another Shinzenian retreat

(As I wait for the feeling to come back to my feet.)

And I’ve thought as my seat spread from meal to meal

Just can’t get enough of that Talk, Image, Feel!

So at this retreat—what new thoughts did I gain?

(Oh yes—)

Recycle that Sleepiness. Get in touch with that Pain!

For Pain is your Friend. It can make you invincible.

You know it’s all due to the Pregnant Jellyfish Principle.

When you’re pain peaks—say “peace”, when it’s weaker “relax”

& When your mind wanders LABEL (no details—just the facts.)

Simple is better but Simplex is the Best.

Shit –let’s just all be one and to hell with the rest.

(Let’s see)

There’s “Splash/Ripple/Radiate/Release” all you’ve got.

(That’s when the drops fall UPWARD—for those who forgot.)

Now image to the Right side, the Left, Front & Back,

To the Top half, the Bottom—wait, I got a crick in my neck!

Now where are your boundaries? Do they vibrate? Or act

Weird? Are they static? Do they expand and contract?

Ay, there’s the rub—and don’t answer right away,

For there’s no right answer—so don’t go for an “A”.

There’s just what’s going on and just note it and say

“I’ve got equanimity with everything today!”

So I’m sitting here sitting…and thinking about…what?

My breath—no my body—no my though process, BUT—

My nose itches. When is Qi Gong? God do my knees hurt!

It’s hot! Is that a crow? STOP!!! YOGI MIND ALERT!!!

If you think this is hard—you should try a sweat!

(Where you can’t see, move or breathe—and you get pretty wet.)

Shinzen does those, too, you know—he’s not just a nerd.

(Although you’ve probably noticed he does value the word

And those Theorems—Like Pythagorean --& the 4 Maxwell had done

(He’s the one who said to his girl, “Hey Babe, I’m the (only) one!”

My favorite analogy is the computer screen

How when you look closely it’s really red, blue and green.

See, we’re fooled by that white—but that’s just an emergent thing.

Only when you see through it—does your bell start to ring.

Speaking of bells— What’s with the dinner call?

I suppose that 3, 3, 3, 7 means something to you all.

But all confusion aside – A Complete Experience is the goal.

(That’s assuming you don’t fall in the craving/aversion hole.)

Now Yaza was fun. I brought my own special treat.

He was quite big and furry and donned four real big feet.

He reigned from the floor –receiving admirers from above,

That’s how he earned the name “Leo, the Black Hole of Love.”

Yes this retreat was fun and full of big smiles

As we listened to Shinzen and walked (very slowly) for miles.

And I must thank the Big Guy for making things so clear

And hope that all got what they came for here.

(Remember)

Subtle is Significant & God is an Action,

And when in doubt – Recycle the Reaction.

And on parting (—don’t worry—see, I’m almost done)

I didn’t know that evolving –could be so much fun.

But then -- that’s just an Opportunity to…what?!

Do a Pleasure Meditation—ok, everyone—down on your butt!

No, just kidding, I realize that’s where you already are.

But when you leave here-in your hearts I hope you don’t wander far

From the depth and the peace and the love found inside,

And all along and through this really great ride.


2011 Stephanie Nash - All Rights Reserved