Cats who teach me to fly…

Ajahn Brahm ended today’s session by telling us true ghost stories because someone requested. I already turn on the bathroom light to sleep every night. After listening to the stories, maybe I’ll have to turn on the main light to sleep. The weather is 16 degree celsius now. Few nights ago, it dropped to 6 degree celsius. I only brought a few clothes and repeatedly wearing the same clothes everyday.

I woke up early for the first session of chanting and meditation and I don’t remember I took any nap today. We went to Ajahn Brahm’s kuti after lunch. It was a small cave covered with big rocks. There were 3 retreatants in the cave with me and we have to experience his cave without light for one minute. There were so many thoughts running through my mind once the light was turned off. “Run! No, stay! Be brave, learn from Ajahn Brahm! That’s how the Buddha meditated under the tree in the forest. If I want to be like a Buddha, I must overcome darkness!” Finally, the light was turned on and I was relieved.

Above is the secret garden that Ajahn Brahm mentioned. I went with another retreatant and her name is Jos. Jos was meditating at the back while I was sitting in front. I should have sit further a little so that she could take a better picture.

Lesson of the day? Number 1: Not to listen to ghost stories before bedtime. Number 2: When fear arises, always think of the Buddha’s qualities. Number 3: According to Ajahn Brahm, darkness can be beautiful!