Realisations from a Brisbane Retreat

Last weekend I had the pleasure of visiting Brisbane for a meditation retreat with close friends. I stayed at the beautiful Brisbane Meditation Centre, which has lovely wooden floors and a homely feel.

Below are some of the realisations I found:

Connection

The only real purpose of life is being together, sharing love, having fun and bringing people to life.

This brings the deepest satisfaction.

Closer to the Light

The more one moves towards the Light, the world opens and warmth comes in.

Love and generosity open the heart. Giving time, kindness, attention, or resources tends to create warmth both for others and for ourselves.

I heard a quote that goes something like "when people enlighten that others are also themselves, they will live a better life".

Self-centredness leads to pain and suffering

Self-centredness creates isolation.

The more I serve myself only, the world closes. I begin to distrust the world, the universe.

When everything revolves around “me”, it can lead to separation and dissatisfaction, it excludes us from the world, our true self.

Being afraid to give and holding too tightly to money is not always good.

Fear closes us

When I did open up (in a supportive environment with someone I can trust) it led to a blossoming conversation that really helped me.

Being defensive and guarded may protect one in the short term, but over time, it can prevent relationships from forming.

Balance

Making an effort to be with close friends is important.

The healthiest path is usually not complete self-sacrifice nor complete self-focus, but caring for oneself while also living with generosity toward others.

Complete self-sacrifice is not always good - me time is needed. This way, I can help the world a little more without burning out.

The Brisbane Meditation Centre - a beautiful homely centre to rest