We’re laughing around the fire. We’ve just finished a meal of vegetables-and-egg stew. I’m happy to be here.

I wasn’t so happy when I first got here.

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Posted at 10:19 am —

 

April 18, 2001 — A Year in the Woods, The Year

I’m in the middle of a transition period right now, which I’m actually glad of. I’m getting reacquainted with a few basics, like shitting in the woods (“da’i”), sleeping on a shallow mat in a sleeping bag or blankets, and consuming less and eating a healthier diet (occasional cookies notwithstanding).

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Posted at 1:38 pm —

 

April 14, 2001 — A Year in the Woods, The Year

I’ve arrived at Teaching Drum. Was greeted warmly by some old friends, and met some new ones. The weather has been stormy for the past few days, but upon my arrival everything was sunny and clear. Things are relaxed so far, as yearlong students are only starting to trickle in.

I was beset by a little self-doubt last night, my first night back. It’s going to be a slow period of adjustment as I get used to not having more luxurious comforts, e.g. a bed. Still, I think if I take it easy and cut myself some slack, I’ll do fine. I need to accept that I have my own strengths and limitations, and not try to measure myself by the abilities of other people.

This morning was spent doing some qigong meditation and exercises, and then just hanging out with the people here in the bright sun. Nice and relaxed.

Posted at 2:21 pm —

 

April 11, 2001 — A Year in the Woods, The Year

Here we go.

Posted at 7:46 pm —

 

April 5, 2001 — A Year in the Woods, Prologue

If any of you are rich and in need of a worthy cause to patronize, here’s a list of things I’d love to receive, in order of interest.

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Posted at 11:46 pm —

 

April 3, 2001 — A Year in the Woods, Prologue

It’s the home stretch.

I’ve chosen, for better or worse, to arrive at Teaching Drum on Friday the 13th. It would make for a good start, no? Which means I’m leaving home on the 12th, because it will take a couple of days to make the trip if I don’t want to be ass-tired by the end of the day.

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Posted at 10:09 pm —

 

 

 

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