April 12-14, 2024
Loyola Retreat House
Clinton, OH
The retreat is full. To be added to the waiting list, please fill out the form below.
A lamp effortlessly lights the way, uproots the darkness and facilitates clear seeing.
The Buddha, in the Kalama Sutra, encouraged us to be a lamp unto ourselves, to examine with curiosity the teachings, the teachers and ourselves. He exhorted us to persevere in our practice in order to rediscover the freedom and peace which is our true essence.
In the Sutra, the Buddha said, “Kalamas, don’t go by reports, by legends, by traditions, by scripture, by logical conjecture, by inference, by analogies, by agreement through pondering views, by probability, or by the thought ‘This contemplative is our teacher.’”
This retreat will explore what it means to light the path. How can we cultivate a spirit of inquiry and joy and balance the skepticism the Sutra encourages? How do we know the right path among so many? We will end with considering how we can be a lamp to ourselves, to others and to the world.
If you have questions about the retreat experience, see our Retreat FAQ. Still have questions? Contact the retreat manager.
Carol Blotter has led more than 100 retreats across the United States and has taught over 85 classes in meditation to spiritual seekers, schools, universities and medical groups over the last 25 years. Her 30+ years practice and study has led to a blending of Insight (Vipassana) Meditation and non-duality teachings from various spiritual traditions. She is the primary teacher of Chelsea Meditation Group.
Since 2004, Carol’s primary teacher and mentor has been Matthew Flickstein. Matthew authored three books on meditation and founded The Forest Way in 1996 (now closed). She has studied under Matt for over 18 years, has been with him at over 60 weeklong retreats, has taken numerous teacher training programs and has co-led retreats with him. Carol was a senior teacher for The Forest Way which was Matt’s organization dedicated to providing retreat opportunities conducive to spiritual growth that was both balanced and integrated.
Carol has also studied with a variety of other teachers including Francis Lucille, Rupert Spira, Leigh Brasington and Father Thomas Keating. Carol initially studied Insight Meditation and Dzogchen with Barbara Brodsky, the founder of Deep Spring Center in Michigan.
The retreat is full. If you would like to be put on a waiting list, please fill out the form below. We will contact you via email if a space opens up.
In keeping with ancient tradition, the teachings of the Buddha are offered freely—the teachers receive no compensation from IM Cleveland for teaching, but rely on dana (generosity) of their students. At retreat’s end, students have an opportunity to practice dana by offering contributions to the teacher.
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