The Seven-Day Meditation Retreat enables one to acquire a calm and tranquil mind.
When I joined the first time, everything was so new to me. For example, we had to enter the Chan hall when the bell struck; or when we used the toilet, we had to remove the black robe. Or, the formal meal was eaten in silence, and many more. We were also doing everything according to schedule that sometimes I could hardly catch up. Even the unfamiliar accent of the Grand Master when he gave his Dharma Talk was difficult to understand.
I have since joined the Chan-7 two more times. On the third time, I was more comfortable, I had improved a lot. As I got familiar with the routine, I could relatively understand what was going on around me. My mind had become calmer and my body more relaxed.
Thus, I could easily participate in the activities right from the first incense. What was obscure before was now clearer in my mind. I came to savor every dish that was provided during the formal meal.
Despite my progress, I noticed that I was not as attentive or as compliant as during my first seven-day retreat. Because everything was familiar, I became careless and unmindful. This is one area where I feel remorseful and wish to rectify.
I encourage everyone to experience the Seven-Day Meditation and enjoy the benefits of Chan cultivation. Should you have any queries, I will sincerely and gladly do my best to help you.