Finding the stabilizing strength of life — DDM Sydney Chapter successfully holds a one-day Chan retreat

On May 30, more than 20 Chan practitioners gathered in the Chan hall of the Dharma Drum Mountain Sydney Chapter, temporarily setting aside their worldly roles and busy schedules to give themselves a precious day of deep dialogue with the mind.
 
This one-day Chan retreat specially invited Venerable Guo Chwan (果傳法師), the guiding Dharma teacher of Dharma Drum Mountain Australia Buddhist Association, to provide compassionate, full-day instruction. From sitting meditation, yoga massage, and walking meditation, to meals and rest, Venerable Guo Chwan guided everyone to integrate Chan practice into every detail of “walking, standing, sitting, and lying down,” allowing participants to experience the ease of both movement and stillness.

“Outside, the sounds are loud—has your mind been moved?” Even though it was Saturday, the sound of passing cars could still be heard outside the venue. Venerable Guo Chwan explained that this was in fact an excellent opportunity to practice the method of “Perfect penetration through the ear faculty” from the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara. Venerable Guo Chwan gently reminded everyone that in daily life, we are sometimes affected by a single careless remark from others, causing the mind to become attached. Chan practice is about learning to face emotional arising and passing within one’s roles and responsibilities without attachment. Venerable Guo Chwan encouraged everyone: “In the Chan hall, your identity is a Chan practitioner, and you should diligently use the method; but more importantly, you must be able to apply it in daily life. When distractions arise, you should immediately bring back a stable and focused mind.”

Venerable Guo Chwan also cared attentively for the participants—offering towels when people felt cold, adjusting their sitting postures, and gently guiding walking meditation steps when they were incorrect—making everyone feel warmth and reassurance. The group also listened to audio-visual teachings by Master Sheng Yen titled “The True Meaning of Wisdom Arising from Samadhi,” deeply realizing that “doing things correctly within stability is wisdom.”

In the closing sharing session, participants expressed great joy and inspiration. One participant shared how they used to eat in a hurry, but that day they slowed down for the first time and truly experienced the sweetness and flavor of rice. Another found that making a vow beforehand brought an unprecedented level of concentration. Someone else stated with emotion how had worried about leg and back pain before coming, but after a full day realized those concerns were “completely unnecessary thoughts.” Others shared that they learned not to follow deluded thoughts and to return to the method at any moment, which deeply helped transform their habitual tendencies.

At the end of the event, Venerable Guo Chwan especially encouraged everyone: “Before attaining Buddhahood, first build good karmic connections with others.” For one’s practice to go smoothly, it should begin with serving sentient beings and cultivating wholesome relationships widely. Venerable Guo Chwan warmly invited everyone to return to the Dharma center to volunteer, thereby cultivating both merit and wisdom.
 
The Sydney Chapter announced that it holds regular Sunday and weekday group meditation sessions every month, welcoming everyone to come and recharge their minds. In August, there will be Chan practice guidance and beginners' meditation class. In September, Venerable Guo Xing (果醒法師), the Vice Abbot of Dharma Drum Mountain, will be invited to give a special lecture and lead a two-day Chan retreat. Related information will be announced on the DDM Sydney Chapter’ social media platforms.
 
Original text in Chinese：Melody Lin
Photos：Vicky Wong
Translation: Patricia Yang 
Editing: Keith Brown