Taking Refuge

textured acrylic on stretched canvas

16 x 20 inches

As I suspected, "Watching the Wind" was not yet complete.  It did not tell the whole story.  Over the last few weeks, a bit at a time, I modified the existing layers a little, added a layer, and worked in the details that held the story. 

This was January 2, 2010, and at dawn that day, as the filtered light gradually illuminated the storm raging around us, I and perhaps 8 or 10 others formally took the Five Mindfulness Trainings as laypeople in the Buddhist Order of InterBeing.  Part of the ceremony is called "Taking Refuge".  The Refuges being referred to are the Buddha (awareness), the Dharma (the teachings), and the Sangha (the community).  And that day there was the literal refuge from the storm within the hall.  So our large meditation hall held many meanings. 

It was a beautiful ceremony, and the immensity of the storm enhanced the meaning for all of us. It was wondrous, and I hope this painting conveys that feeling.