Here we are, in the midst of this perfect way,
and our practice is to realize it. — Maezumi Roshi

Chapin Mill Retreat
October 9-12, 2025
Register here

Every year around this time, the people who practice with me come together at Chapin Mill Retreat Center in Batavia, NY. There are many reasons we keep returning. Designed in the manner of a centuries-old Japanese Zen monastery, it is the perfect place to broaden our practice beyond the cushion. Through daily activities such as cleaning, cooking, meditative meals, and service training, we naturally extend our practice to aspects of everyday life.

But underneath all that is a more powerful reason. We want to realize our lives as perfect, and by perfect, we don’t mean without difficulty or disappointment. We don’t mean without fear or worry, or without pain, sickness, and loss. By “perfect” we mean “complete.” It’s easy to feel that our lives are inadequate, lost or shattered. We come here to sit in silent stillness and see through the broken pieces.

The three-day program includes seated and walking meditation, chanting services, Dharma talks, and private encounters with a teacher—me. Beginners are welcome. Newcomers fit in. Sitting alone and yet sitting together, we practice as one. Perhaps it’s time. It’s always time. And always healing.