We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track. If this problem persists help us by reporting it so we can investigate it.
Watch this talk
Login or create a free account to watch this talk and discover other teachings from Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh.
Log in or create an account
Growing the Seed of Home: Sangha, Exile, and the Art of Belonging
Having something you love gives life direction. At twelve, seeing a simple drawing of the Buddha seated calmly planted a seed in Thay’s heart. A school picnic led him to a hidden mountain spring whose clear, refreshing water left him feeling as though he had met the hermit himself. Soon after, a children’s discussion with four friends about future careers inspired all five to become monks. As a novice, Thay found joy in the monastery’s simple tasks—growing food, carrying water, chopping wood—and in community life.
War came: soldiers seized rice and cut down monastery pines, and a bell was nearly silenced by threats of violence. Determined to bring Buddhism’s message of peace to society, Thay left Vietnam in 1966 to call for a ceasefire. Exiled, cut off from students—some of whom were killed—he suffered deeply but practiced mindfulness of breathing and walking to learn to befriend the trees, birds, and people of the West. Over time, he accepted the Earth as home and, twenty years later, founded Plum Village as a refuge where the dream of home no longer haunted him.
Insight is only the beginning and must be nurtured with the right conditions:
- Yourself, with the determination to find the way
- Suitable conditions for practice and enjoyment of that practice
- Friends who share the same vision and commitment
Building and trusting the Sangha is vital. Start by breaking through to one person—true communication with even a single friend can rescue us from suffering. Learn the art of establishing relationships, accept everyone (even the difficult ones), and you will gain the strength to make peace with home, wherever you are.