Ajahn Vayama and Venerable Seri in the Sala of Patacara Bhikkhuni Hermitage April 2011

We are now coming to the end of  2011. We hope the new year will bring all the exciting new adventures, relationships, and fulfilment of our dreams. Most of all, we can start again by putting  the past behind us. Ajahn Vayama always said that the new year is not really new. We bring all our conditionings, experiences and kamma from last year as well as all of our life, to the next moment. It is a continuum of samsara. However, we have this great opportunity to continue to practise the Dhamma.

I am going to review the Year  2011 for me, and for Patacara Bhikkhuni Hermitage, which has been full of  various colours and shades of samsara. From being homeless, pondering where to go, to moving to the Hermitage, and the incorporation of Patacara Bhikkhuni Hermitage,  it has been a very challenging year for me. We also had the uplifting and inspiring events of celebrating the first Vesak and a small ceremony to mark the first End of Rains ceremony at Patacara Bhikkhuni Hermitage. I learned and experienced the challenges of life and also grew and stretched my muscle of practice as a bhikkhuni. I am very grateful to have my teacher with me, Ajahn Vayama, from whom I can seek advice, guidance and support spiritually and practically with the practice of Dhamma.

Ajahn Vayama is sick and her condition is deteriorating, therefore we  are not able to have much busyness and a crowd at Patacara Bhikkhuni Hermitage. We were not able to include all our supporters in all the events at Patacara Bhikkhuni Hermitage. In addition, Ajahn Vayama and myself have been offered accommodation at the private residence of one of our female lay supporters. We need to respect the privacy and kindness  of the resident whom we share the accommodation with. We are sure you will understand our position.We appreciate everyone for your kindness, generosity, care and support to offer us the opportunity to practise, to practise for the attainment of Nibbana.

I will be sharing with you some of the photos of the events I have mentioned in the coming posts. May you have a peaceful year and continue to practise on the path for peace and ease and for the attainment of Nibbana!

Happy New Year!