Expert: Stuart Resnick - 9/13/2010

Question

Hi, I sincerely need to be in a spiritual community somewhere in Florida where one could stay for Free (due to lack of money) that is primarily interested & motivated in the well being and Awakening of those who come.. to be of continual Surrendering Service to God (Higher Power) and the world.

A monastic community that practices Satsang, Vipassana, Jnana & Bhakti Yoga and the wise use of herbs, essential oils, & foods?


here is what I feel would be a good place for this practice:

- in a Nature setting, Free from most Pollution & Loud noises, especially mechanical
 like in or near a garden of flowers & medicinal herbs
 
- few or no bugs that bite would be very nice

- near a fresh spring pond, gentle stream or lake

- small birds that chirp in gentle harmony

- mostly flatland or with good walkways without lots of mud & debris

- areas for a Good Tent Space or quiet places to stay away from others?


do you know of any in Florida or websites to search?  The most important is a spiritual community and being in nature's gentle ebb & flow..

any keywords I should try searching for more ideas?

if you have other ideas on places to Awaken, please share!  The more perspectives I get, the better I can make a wise choice.

Thanks Stuart..  this can help immensely with what I'm going through..


Answer
Re places to awaken... there's only one place where this is possible: where you are at this very moment. Just now, what do you see, what do you hear, what are you doing? That's what's most important. Perceive what's right in front of you, and whatever you're doing, just do it.

The more you want, the more problems you'll have. If you cultivate desire for gentle streams and chirping birds, you'll get suffering. You're already awake, and everything is already Truth. "Spiritual" and "un-Spiritual" are empty names. You can pay attention to the Truth that's present in noise and activity and traffic and crowds etc etc.

Also, your life will be much easier if you look for ways to work and support yourself, rather than wanting others to take care of you for free. And you may find more happiness if you examine what you can do to help others, rather than pursuing what you want for yourself.

Beyond that, I don't live in Florida, I know nothing about communities there, I'm sure you'll find lots and lots of options on Google.