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First Untie Yourself Before Rescuing Others
There are those who come to Plum Village to nourish the joy they already have, with only five days left before the retreat ends, while others arrive with pain, wishing to transform their suffering and find joy. Many people may appear normal on the outside, but deep inside they carry great suffering, and if we lack mindfulness, we will not recognize that silent cry for help. Like a lily that looks beautiful on the outside but may already be withering within, we need mindfulness and skillful means to help them open their hearts, to accompany and help them overcome suffering, truly practicing with the aspiration to serve life right here and now.
The practice method of Plum Village affirms its effectiveness as many people rediscover joy and transform themselves during their stay, depending on their conditions and merits:
- 1 week
- 3 weeks
- 3 months
-
1 year
Transformation is based on the practice of the permanent residents, who live fully the words they speak through each breath, each step, and each sound of the bell. Listening to the bell, walking meditation, and mindful eating are means to recognize and untie the internal knots (samyojana), the inner bonds, to untie the knots and rediscover freedom and peace in the present moment.