One of the first steps I took toward preparing my site for the three-year retreat was to clear the path from the location where I will most likely pick up retreat supplies to the spot where my house will eventually reside. I traveled the distance in a zigzag direction; through brush and cacti up a steep incline I climbed, gently moving small rocks to the left and to the right of me. Each step I took was measured and deliberate, placing my foot carefully only after looking closely at the ground before me, to ensure no living creature stood in my path. My intent in taking such purposeful footsteps was to ensure that I didn’t harm any living being with this first visit to the actual retreat home location.
Whenever I paused and stood completely still, I’d take a deep breathe and inhale the desert-rain scent of creosote, feel the warmth of the sun on my skin, and in the distance hear the call of a bird. At my feet in the dusty dirt I’d perceive the scurry of a lizard as it tuned in to my presence. I was aware of each subtle movement around me and conscious of each action, which was motivated by my desire to not harm myself or other living beings. When I consider the many actions it will take to carry out the three-year retreat, including that first step to clear the path, I am reassured knowing that each action will be guided by such clear intentions to protect life, the environment, and the planet.
