The introduction to the retreat with introductions, descriptions, taking refuges and precepts, and calling the devas. The Dhamma talk starts at 34 minutes. Tonight we are entering the sanctuary of this amazing forest and beautiful buildings where so many people have come to practice over these many years. We are also entering the sanctuary of physical safety and security to be here together with everyone keeping precepts and holding the intention to practice well. We can feel the presence of the devas. And, we are entering the internal sanctuary of the heart.

Developing skill and sensitivity to life force energy or chi can support development on the path to awakening. Here are some reflections on how that might happen.

Techniques in the practice take many different forms. Some questions include how to work with grief after recent death of one's mother, how to deal with sloth and torpor, how to do walking meditation, etc.

As we being to reflect on the joy of seclusion, we turn inwards for mental seclusion using Mindfulness of Breathing.

Physical seclusion, mental seclusion, seclusion from people, unethical conduct, wrong view and defilements, and the relief and joy that comes from seclusion.

In Itivuttaka 38, the Buddha talks about how the Tathāgata frequently has two thoughts: one about sanctuary and the other about seclusion. The thought about sanctuary, the safety and security for living beings, comes from his love of and delight in kindness. The thought comes from the Buddha's love of seclusion and his delight in it, so this thought often occurs to him: ‘What is unskillful has been given up.’ The Buddha encouraged his disciples to love kindness and delight in it, then this thought will often occur to them: ‘Through this behavior, I shall not hurt any creature firm or frail.’ He also encouraged them to love seclusion and delight in it, then this thought will often occur to them: ‘What is unskillful? What is not given up? What should I give up?’”

These recollections from the Buddha help to lift up the heart, remind us of our goodness and give us encouragement on the path. The recollections are of the qualities of the Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha. And then, recollections on one's own moral conduct (sila), generosity, and the qualities of the devas that caused them to become devas that we ourselves also possess.

Finding joy in everything good: generosity, kindness, letting go, virtuous behavior. Seeing how the qualities of generosity lay the groundwork for awakening and show up in that process as well. Cultivating mudita, appreciative joy, for the good in ourselves, in others, and goodness wherever we find it.

Using SN 28.1 "Born of Seclusion" as a basis, we can come to understand what "ultimate goodness" is: the end of "eradicated I-making, mine-making, and the underlying tendency to conceit."

Scanning the front, back and inside of the body with the image of warm oil flowing slowly over all its parts.