"Though these insentient things have no voice, they silently reveal the truth of impermanence at every moment—through the changing seasons, the blooming and withering of flowers, and the ceaseless flow of water—to anyone willing to listen."
The natural surroundings at DDRC carry a quiet, undeniable beauty. Every building, every blade of grass, and every tree comes together to create a serene landscape that naturally calms and settles the mind.
Recently, I received the sad news that the magnificent maple tree standing in front of the reception hall—a personal favorite of mine—would need to be cut down. I immediately went outside to see it, quietly hoping there might still be some way to save it. Unfortunately, the trunk is deeply cracked, and the damage is too severe. It is only a matter of time before the tree falls. Knowing this, I felt it was important to hold a proper farewell ceremony for it.
After my morning sitting meditation, I performed a purification ritual for this great maple tree. Chanting the Great Compassion Mantra, I offered pure water and took the Three Refuges on its behalf. I did this out of deep gratitude. For two hundred years, this majestic tree has rooted itself in this earth. Along with all the other trees here, it has silently accompanied us, offering its sheltering presence to our retreat center. Whenever I learn that one of these trees is nearing the end of its life—whether broken by the wind or simply worn by age—I feel a bittersweet sadness arise in my heart. I have always regarded them as fellow residents of our community, sharing this life and watching over this land alongside us.
Now the time has come to say goodbye to this ancient friend. Standing before it, I quietly said, “There is no gathering in life that does not eventually come to an end.” Its karmic journey in this world has reached its natural conclusion. Its responsibilities have been fulfilled, and our karmic affinity is gently coming to a close.
Yet even this farewell is itself a profound teaching. This is exactly what is meant when we say that “insentient beings speak the Dharma.”
In the Chan tradition, the mountains, rivers, great earth, and all phenomena are constantly teaching the Dharma. Though these insentient things have no voice, they silently reveal the truth of impermanence at every moment—through the changing seasons, the blooming and withering of flowers, and the ceaseless flow of water—to anyone willing to listen.
The fifteen-minute ceremony gradually came to an end. As I stepped away from the tree, I returned to the present moment, to the simple reality of everyday life, and continued my practice.