Return From the Monastery

In my previous post I had mentioned going on a retreat to a Zen monastery, specifically Ryumonji Zen Monastery.  I have recently returned home, with a whole sense of being.
I learned many things during my stay, (including but not limited to), things about myself, Zazen, and practice.  For lack of a better term, I found the "light" which I needed, not only for my practice, but also for myself.  The abbot was genuinely kind and compassionate.  Never before had I met a man who was so kind, understanding, and genuine.

Shoken/The Abbot (left) and myself (right)

So my returning marks the end of my hiatus from blogging, which I now plan to post more frequently.  Thanks to all of you who have been following me through my hiatus.

Here are a couple pictures of the monastery I took during my stay.   Gassho.

Ryumonji (left to right): Sodo/Sitting Hall, Hondo/Buddha Hall, Kuin/Dining and Dorms

View from courtyard

Entrance sign

Temple Bell