Awash in light
First the glimmer
Of grey to silver
Then gold, solid as sound.
Thick as honey
Leaves of ginger, a lamp
Pond rich as a mother’s womb,
Lilies, so ready to open.

– Susan Shannon

A place in repose in which the indwelling truth of our being can become manifest in our daily experience … Such sanctuaries are essential in this modern world of speed and cities. This space has been a true sanctuary ... The view is marvelous meditation in and of itself ... The gesture of this space is clear: an act of giving so that others might receive ... In much appreciation.

– David LaChapelle

I can't imagine a better place in the world to spend time in solitude — only to learn, there really is no solitude as it becomes so clear so fast how interconnected we are with all things. In the company of all weather, frogs, cows, birds, horses, papayas, bananas, and all that lives I feel a birth happened.

All the great beings fill this space to make it such a nest of reflection and realization it is … In being here and walking the property daily, I have learned so much about the harmony of abundance and the elegance of simplicity.

– Susan Shannon

Our time here has been such a wonderful gift—and one that will keep on giving; not just in the memories of our stay here, but in the many changes being here has wrought in us. There are so many images—the racing clouds, the vibrant colors in the garden, the playful buffoes—all under the watchful gases of the Buddhas. We can’t help but feel humbled by the majesty of this setting and grateful to both of you for giving us the privilege of being witness to it all. Perhaps the truest measure of what being here has mean to us was returning after being away for several days and realizing that we felt like we were coming home to a place of sanctuary. How precious!

– Judy and Lorne Blackman

... gradually the business subsided and we have appreciated the opportunity to rest and reflect … to paraphrase an old Taoist alchemical text:

Clouds float by and disappear into blue space;
The mountain stands clear;
The circle of the moon floats alone.
We leave this place in peace, thankful for it’s gifts.

– Leonie Van Gelder
and Minor Lile

Dear Joel and Michelle,
My stay here has been wonderful. I am pleased to see that you put my Buddha picture up on your refrigerator, and very happy that you like it. I’m sure I speak for my whole family when I say that we have had a great time here. During my stay I felt more enlightened than ever before. The frogs are nice company especially when the sun sets and they all come hopping out of the pond.) I love the peace and quiet, the fresh air, the cool mountain breeze. The outdoor shower is heavenly. The view is phenomenal.

I would like to sincerely thank you for sharing this marvelous gem.

– Cory, age 11