By: Deshon
As many of you know, I am Deshon Aiya. I’ve been attending the youth retreat since I was 12, entering my teenage years. From that very first experience, I felt a sense of purification that has drawn me back year after year—except during the pause brought on by COVID. Thankfully, I returned in 2023 and have continued ever since.
That first retreat was life-changing, even though waking up early in the morning was (and still is) difficult, especially for someone like me who barely sleeps at night. I’ve always been more of a night owl, somehow managing to f
unction with little to no rest. This year was no exception. On the night before Day 3, I joined the retreat after a long and tiring day, just as everyone was heading to bed. I found myself sleeping on the hardwood floor with my semi-luxurious low mattress. Despite the noise from chatty kids and loud snoring, and despite my restless mind and annoying itchiness, I strangely found comfort in the firm support of the floor. It reminded me that even discomfort can have its own kind of peace.
Luckily, on the second night, I moved to the upstairs shrine room and slept better. These minor struggles aside, the retreat serves as a powerful reminder to live meaningfully and not just drift through life chasing distractions and pleasures.
Our days began early—around 4:30 AM—with warm drinks and silent meditation in the dhamma hall, chilled by the AC. That early morning meditation, despite its physical challenge, brings a kind of peace hard to find elsewhere. The indoor walking meditation, especially, stood out to me this year. Though it was difficult at first, I began to understand the beauty of mindful movement. Feeling each step, the cool sensation beneath my feet—it felt like I was finally doing it right. That simple act grounded me more deeply than I can describe.
Bhante Deepankara, as always, guided us with wisdom and compassion. His teachings come from a place of deep empathy and understanding, helping us stay positive and reflective.
There were also fun and lighthearted moments, like the group play competition. We had to perform a skit based on a Buddhist topic in a specific genre. We even had to chant, not sing, to avoid breaking a precept (“nacca-gīta vādita…”). That part sparked some giggles and awkward moments, but it lightened the mood and gave us all something to laugh about.
Bhante Kondanna Thero, visiting from New York, replaced the usual post-COVID art session we would’ve had with Bhante Piyananda. This year, we made paper lotus flowers using colorful paper and Styrofoam cups. Though I don’t consider myself artistic, the activity felt like a form of passive meditation—creative, peaceful, and joyful. Some surprised themselves with their creations.
Then came one of the most impactful moments for me: Dr. Deeptha’s Abhidhamma class. We hadn’t studied this topic in depth since 2019, and it absolutely blew my mind. The 17 moments of sensory perception, broken into processes that happen in a split second, showed me just how intricate and profound the workings of the mind truly are. Learning about the aggregates, the 8 octet, karmic reactions, and how all of this ties into consciousness was awe-inspiring. It was also reassuring to know that karma is not absolute fate. If it were, enlightenment would be impossible. Dr. Deeptha also explained the stages of spiritual progress, like becoming a Sotapanna and beyond, with clarity and passion that made us all eager to learn more.
Dr. Ayesha’s session was equally meaningful. She reminded us of what shraddha/saddha truly means—not blind belief, but confident trust and faith in the Dhamma. Her gentle wisdom encouraged us to understand the purpose behind our good deeds and not just follow rituals without reflection. I hope her talk inspires the younger generation to offer dana and perform meritorious acts with genuine understanding and intention.
This youth retreat is far more than a spiritual sleepover. It's a training ground for personal growth, a gateway to deeper understanding, and a community where meaningful friendships blossom. It strengthens our shraddha, sharpens our awareness, and helps us live by the Dhamma with courage and clarity. We laugh, we learn, and we support one another as spiritual friends—kalyana mitta.
After the retreat, I even stayed 18 extra days with Samanera Rahula (Venura) to continue my practice, and I’m grateful for every moment of it. He’s a wonderful kalyana mitta, and I’m glad we could encourage each other on this path.
I want to thank my mother for encouraging me to attend, and extend deep gratitude to:
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Taniya Aunty & Dr. Deeptha for organizing and educating,
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Sahan Uncle for his constant help (and waking up the boys!),
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Dr. Ayesha for her timely and inspiring discussion,
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Mr. Steve for his session and teaching us Qigong,
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Mr. Justin, whom I missed this year due to my late arrival,
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and every person who contributed to this program and its success.
Let us all stay curious, stay mindful, and stay compassionate. Or in the words of Steve Jobs, “Stay hungry, stay foolish.”
Theruwan Saranai & Namo Buddhaya.