A Journey of Transformation: Three Months in Plum Village
Each year, countless individuals from diverse backgrounds find themselves drawn to Plum Village for an array of reasons, each carrying their unique stories and motivations. Whether they are members of local Sanghas, readers of Thich Nhat Hanh's teachings, or simply seekers of peace and tranquility amidst the lush landscapes of France, Plum Village beckons to practitioners worldwide. My own journey to Plum Village, however, was markedly different.
I arrived at Plum Village with little foreknowledge of the place, its people, or its practices. My pilgrimage was driven by a desire to reunite with my brother, who had embraced the monastic life and now called Plum Village home. Stepping off the train into the warm embrace of a French summer, I encountered my brother, now a monk, for the first time. Clad in his distinctive robes and bearing a new name, he welcomed me into this unfamiliar world.
Plum Village represented a stark departure from my accustomed lifestyle—an Australian accustomed to indulgence, carnivorous habits, and digital distractions. I grappled with apprehensions: Would the Vietnamese monks accept me? Could I adapt to a vegetarian diet? Would I endure without constant connectivity? Amidst these uncertainties, I embarked on a journey with an open mind and no expectations, unaware that it would profoundly alter my perspective.
Over the ensuing three months, Plum Village unfolded as the crucible for the most profound transformation of my life. Unfamiliar with mindfulness, meditation, or emotional vulnerability, I found myself immersed in a community of global citizens committed to these practices. Amidst dharma talks, yoga sessions, forest walks, and periods of deep reflection, I shed layers of ego and preconceptions, embracing change.
The absence of everyday distractions afforded me the opportunity to confront my inner turmoil and aspirations. In the quietude of Plum Village, I discovered the insidious patterns of chasing material pursuits without understanding their underlying motivations. Thay's wisdom—"the trick is not to run away from our suffering"—resonated deeply, illuminating my perpetual cycle of avoidance.
The Five Mindfulness Trainings became more than mere principles; they became guiding lights in my journey. Witnessing the transformative power of deep listening and loving speech, I recognized the profound impact of genuine human connection. What initially seemed foreign—singing, sharing—evolved into sources of joy and camaraderie.
As I reminisce on my time in Plum Village—four weeks of summer retreats, a health retreat, a youth retreat, and the onset of autumn—I am filled with gratitude. I had the privilege of immersing myself in the art of mindfulness, alongside wise and compassionate souls from across the globe. Blessed to share this experience with my blood brother, now a monk, I emerge with a newfound appreciation for the present moment.
In retrospect, Plum Village was not merely a destination; it was a crucible of self-discovery and transformation. It challenged my perceptions, nurtured my growth, and endowed me with lifelong lessons in mindfulness and compassion. As I step forward on my journey, I carry with me the profound wisdom and enduring friendships forged amidst the serene landscapes of Plum Village.