"Claude Anshin Thomas has been an inspiration to me. Our world urgently needs to listen to him tell of his life in war and then in peace." -Maxine Hong Kingston, author of Woman Warrior

"Thomas's pilgrimage to find living peace in a world full of terror and war gives us a wonderfully practical lesson in how to lift ourselves out of the insanity of fear, hatred, violence, and trauma." -John Laurence, former CBS News correspondent & author of The Cat from Hue: a Vietnam War Story

 "A powerful, wise, and genuinely profound spiritual odyssey from the insanity of violence (in the world, within ourselves, and in the assumptions of American culture) to the peace and compassion of mindfulness practice. Thomas beautifully models Zen teachings in his daily life, and by doing so he enlightens and liberates us all." -Charles Johnson, winner of the National Book Award for Middle Passage

Claude Anshin Thomas volunteered for active duty at the age of 18, when he served as a crew chief on assault helicopters in Vietnam.  By the end of his tour of duty, he had been awarded numerous medals, including 27 Air Medals, the Distinguished Flying Cross, and the Purple Heart. He witnessed horrifying cruelty, narrowly escaped death on multiple occasions, and was responsible for the deaths of many Vietnamese.

When Thomas returned home he found, like many Vietnam veterans, that he continued to live in a state of war.   For years, Thomas struggled with severe post-traumatic stress, drug and alcohol addiction, isolation, and even homelessness.

Today, Thomas is a Zen Monk, an International Peace Activist, an Author and a Teacher in the United States, Europe and Asia.  He shares his inspiring spiritual odyssey from the horrors of combat to discovering the Buddhist path to healing.  Thomas' powerful story can serve as a road map for others who might feel trapped in cyclical patterns of response that are a fact of the trauma experience, regardless of the nature and extent of the trauma.

Details about the retreat: The retreat will be held in noble silence and will include sitting and walking meditation, instructions, Dharma talks and Q/A sessions.

What to Bring: a zafu (sitting cushion) and zabuton (sitting pad) if you have them. Some zafus and blankets and other props will be available as well as chairs. Wear loose, comfortable clothing, light jacket or sweater in case the room is too cool for you. No cell phones, no beepers. Give yourself the gift of this time to drop into quiet stillness and deepen your meditation practice.

Noon Meal (Sat and Sun): Participants are asked to bring a vegetarian dish (enough for 8 - 10) as well as eating/serving utensils (plate, bowl, fork,water bottle, etc). Water will be provided. Some refrigerator space will be available.

Location: The Lotus Room Yoga Studio is located at 1101 W. Kennedy Blvd. which is adjacent to University of Tampa, just west of North Blvd. Click here For directions

Times and Fees: Space is limited and preference will be given to those who register for the full weekend. One and two day options will be available on a space available basis. The times and fees are: Full Weekend, $50; Friday 7 pm to 9 pm, $10; Saturday 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, $25; Sunday 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, $25. Please arrive on time and plan to stay for the entire day. Scholarships are available and no one will be turned away due to lack of funds. If you would like a scholarship, simply pay as much as you are able.

Dana: Many of you are familiar with the Buddhist tradition of offering the Buddha's teachings based on dana or "generousity". This is a wonderful tradition that makes the teachings available to all regardless of ability to pay. The registration fees only cover the expenses involved in offering the retreat; none of the registration fees go to the teacher.  In order for teachers to continue to freely offer the teachings, they depend on the generosity of their students. Dana from students is used to cover the teacher's living expenses and support the work in sharing the Dharma. At the end of the retreat you will be given an opportunity to offer your generosity.

Any Questions? Contact Steve Shealy at  steve@bemindful.org or call 813-989-9910