Gavin

30, from England.

For a long time I've felt drawn towards a rural community life, before I even really had any idea why I might be attracted to such a thing! Now it's a lot clearer... I'm interested in exploring what it means to be a "natural human". An interesting phrase, one that keeps coming back to me... An exploration of a way of life that enables people to live with the ease and balance that we see in the natural world, in creatures of other species, but seems to be lacking in our human societies now. A way of life that can reconnect us to ourselves, eachother, society and nature. After all we are a part of nature! And that's where the Dharma ties in for me too... as a means of opening and connecting, a means of coming to an intuitive understanding and peace with what is.

Thaneeya

27, from Florida.

I see life as a never-ending search for meaning. For me this means being sensitive to life's many nuances, staying open to change and welcoming new experiences, and exploring the myriad possibilities that this world has to offer. Philosophical explorations, such as Buddhism, have been essential in cultivating my awareness of what gives life meaning and how that changes over time, from moment to moment. Immersion in two of my favorite activities - art and travel - continues to be instrumental in my self-development. I see art as a way to search the self, as well as interpret and examine the world around me, and to create a cohesive unity between the two. My main goal as a human is to simply be the most effective person I can be, by being aware of what matters and trying to embody my ideal. I see a community as a supportive group of seekers, each on a path to discover our own truths. As a conscious community, we support one another on our individual quests for peace, truth and inner freedom.

Nick

37, from England.

Hi I'm Nick, I've had an active interest in the teachings of the Buddha for around 6 years. The first meditation retreat I attended struck a profound chord with me and I realised this was the path I wanted to follow in life. This longing alongside a love of nature slowly started to give rise to the feeling of wanting to be a part of a rural spiritual community. However having the security of a job (as a social worker), a house and a mortgage, it was a lot to give up to chase this new way of life. I was aware however if I did not follow my heart and attempt this change I would always be wishing I had. So I did...and now? I love it! Life still brings challenges of course but I feel I am in the right place to meet them now. We can never predict what happens in the future but whatever happens I feel privileged to be able to share an authentic journey with others seeking a meaningful connection to this life we find ourselves with.