Retreat with Matthew Flickstein

August 31 - September 2, 2007
Friday 9 a.m. through Sunday 5 p.m.

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About this retreat

We have probably heard the statement, “You are already free,” from one or more spiritual mentors. If that is true, why do we still experience confusion, emotionality, and reactivity?

There are two realities: conventional; how things appear to be, and ultimate; how things are in their own nature. To erase the boundaries to freedom we are not trying to refute the appearance of things such as the body, the mind, or our life’s circumstances. Mere appearance does not cause suffering. To experience our inherent freedom we need to stop clinging to appearances as if they were the ultimate realities of life.

This retreat will focus on differentiating between conventional and ultimate realities. We will practice meditations and contemplations that will expose the ways in which we cling to concepts and beliefs that cloud our vision of ultimate truth. Teacher conferences will concentrate on how we can bring our practice and understanding into our daily lives.

$250 per person covers seven vegetarian, mostly vegan meals, and two nights lodging. The teachings are offered freely in the tradition of Dana, with appreciation for financial contributions from participants in support of the teacher.

The Franciscan Center is a wonderfully quiet setting for deepening one's meditation practice. With eight acres of beautiful riverfront grounds, this facility offers each participant a private room with full bath, a quiet meditation hall and ample indoor and outdoor space for walking meditation. The facility is fully staffed, which means no "yogi chores" for meditators, like dish washing or cleaning, . . . just a few days of deep silence to focus inward and deepen one's meditation practice. The center is wheelchair friendly. Below is a map to the center.

August 24 is the registration deadline, when the final payment is due. Refunds will be made in full when requested before this deadline, after which only partial refunds, if any, can be made. Directions and detailed information will be sent upon receipt of the registration form. It is our hope that financial considerations will not prevent anyone from attending this retreat. Some funds are available for partial scholarships, and a deferred payment plan can be arranged. However, the minimum deposit of $100 is required to hold your space.

This retreat is limited to 30 participants. Please register as early as possible.

For more information, please email Sue at sueshealy@vzavenue.net or phone her at 813-980-2061.

Please register by mail: Download a Registration Form