Alternative Residency – the Key to Skillful Living

Sometimes when there are no teachings scheduled the house is available for 'Alternative Residency' a mode specifically designed for people who while not being Dharma practitioners, wish to 'live skilfully', while working in the district.

Alternative Residency is available from time to time and typically during the winter months. We welcome new friends and look forward to them becoming old friends. Residents don’t have to meditate or participate in Dharma practice but they do need to keep in mind that the house is the face of Dharma in the community.

So what is the ‘face’ of Dharma? Fundamentally the face of Dharma is “kindness” - kindness to oneself and kindness to others. So “Alternative Residency” is about living with kindness and the greatest kindness to others is to take great interest in others.

Guidelines

There is no greater interest that one can take than providing sustenance for others – thus the first rule of the house is that all residents cook one meal a week for the house, normally three or four persons in total.

The second rule of taking an interest in oneself and others is maintaining a roster of duties so that the house is tidy and welcoming.

Thirdly we ask that an interest be taken in the House itself as the “Face of Dharma”.

Fourthly visitors are welcomed. All are welcomed on to the property as one would welcome a friend to ones home. Inquiries regarding Dharma or meditation are handled compassionately and referred to those who use the premises for Dharma practice.

Interested?

For our part the trust provides a well appointed centrally located house where you can expect a relaxed and supportive environment and an opportunity to live skilfully with with like minded people. If this sounds like you, then you are welcome here! You can contact us using the details on the contact page.

Please note that the reason for the rules is not to restrict ones freedom but to allow the freedom of a relaxed and rewarding environment to flourish.