Poetry that Opens the Dharma Heart to Compassion and Insight

Imagine spending a full day in meditation, but not in silence alone—instead, your practice is punctuated by the beauty of carefully chosen poems that illuminate the very truths you're discovering on the cushion. This daylong workshop, led by respected teacher Phillip Moffitt, weaves together sitting meditation, walking meditation, and poetry to create a unique gateway into the Buddha's path of awakening. For over twenty years, Moffitt has offered this annual gathering as a bridge between formal practice and the everyday wisdom we all seek—a space where the contemplative depth of dharma becomes tangible, alive, and connected to the world we actually live in.

Whether you've been meditating for decades or you're curious about what Buddhist practice offers, this event meets you exactly where you are. The day balances profound inner work with genuine lightness and community joy. There's something especially powerful about hearing poetry read aloud in a room full of practitioners, and even more transformative about giving voice to words yourself—discovering that the insights of great poets and the Buddha's teachings speak to the same human longing for compassion, clarity, and meaning. This is an accessible entry point for anyone hesitant about poetry or meditation, yet rich enough to deepen the practice of experienced students.

What to Expect

The day alternates between periods of sitting meditation, walking meditation, and shared poetry readings. Phillip Moffitt carefully selects each poem to point toward specific dharma truths—insights about suffering, impermanence, interdependence, and the awakening that becomes possible when we see clearly. You'll have the opportunity to recite poems aloud to the group if you wish, experiencing both the contemplative silence of practice and the simple, joyful courage of sharing words that matter. The atmosphere is grounded yet light, formal yet welcoming. You'll leave with a deepened sense of how poetry and meditation work together to open the heart, practical tools for insight, and the warmth of practicing alongside others on the path.

Venue & Logistics

This daylong is held at Spirit Rock Meditation Center in Woodacre, California, a serene retreat setting designed for deep practice. The program runs for a full day on Saturday, August 15, 2026. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for sitting and walking meditation; the center provides cushions and benches. Please arrive a few minutes early to settle in. Contact Spirit Rock directly with any accessibility questions or needs.