Swanwick Star Issue No. 1 (2008)

Ralph Tiller: KECC Retreats 2008

Three weekend retreats, hosted by Ralph and Madelaine Tiller, were held this year in May, August and October at the Centre, the first year after its reopening. These retreats introduced Krishnamurti and his teachings in the context of videotaped talks by contemporary teachers Eckhart Tolle and Adyashanti whose approach shares a similar focus on open enquiry into self and truth and a questioning of tradition, beliefs and spiritual authority.

The retreats in May and October were attended by about a dozen participants, the August retreat by about half a dozen. The smaller attendance in August may in part be due to it taking place in the summer holiday season and including the teaching of Adyashanti who is not widely known. The last retreat in early October for the first time also included day participants.

The retreats provided participants with a supportive context for self-exploration of “who am I?”, “what do I really want?”, and covered such topics as freedom, choice, fear, desire, ego, truth, the nature of thought, meditation, presence, and the end of suffering.

Each of these events included a video and a handout of K’s teachings along with an opportunity for silent reflection. There were optional integration sessions and opportunities to share in chanting and movement exercises. The final retreat included a group dialogue kindly facilitated by David Bruneau. Individuals found this beneficial for exploring the practical application of their discoveries in daily life.

Feedback from these retreats consistently expressed a deep appreciation for the opportunity to immerse themselves with the teachings while enjoying the exquisite ambiance of the K Centre. “Uplifted, renewed, challenged and inspired” were some of the words heard from the grateful participants.

Most participants had not been acquainted with the Centre and K’s teachings and these retreats have played a helpful role in creating awareness of them.