Our First Tree Planting
19th March 2022
A BRIGHT START
Thanks to all of the support the project has received so far, we were able to hold our first tree planting session on Saturday 19th March 2022 at the OBV Park Farm Meditation Centre in the Forest of Dean. Despite a number of families and friends needing to pull out due to COVID-19, we had a good turnout, and the weather couldn't have been better for us with clear, bright sunshine and a light breeze!
SHARING FOOD
The day started with an offering of food to the monks at the centre, and paying our respects to them. We then shared a meal together provided by the Kalyana UK group, mixing traditional Sri Lankan dishes with a variety of tasty desserts. It was the perfect opportunity to welcome everyone, and to begin connecting with friends old and new.
THE GUIDED TOUR
Having assembled tools and plants, we then took a tour around the grounds, led by Venerable Pannavamsa. It helped warm up muscles and bodies and give us all a sense of the scale of the area. Amongst the conversations and walking, we were also able to appreciate the sense of stillness that the beautiful environment provides.
DIGGING AND PLANTING
Next it was down to work. Shovels, hoes, forks and wheelbarrows. Digging and planting, with everyone (from youngest to eldest) lending a hand. We began in the orchard area by planting a variety of fruit trees. Next, to the area of the future Buddha Garden to plant maples/acers and single beautiful magnolia. Once all 22 trees were planted carefully, with holes filled and soil tamped down, we returned to the lodge for a cup of tea, a bite (or two) of cake and a chance to reflect.
WATERING AND LOOKING AHEAD
With rain not expected for a few days, our final important task was to give the trees a good soak of water before gathering our tools and clearing up.
Some of the children offered their respect to Venerable Pannavamsa, and received some brief instruction on how to deal with emotions in their daily life: rather than "I am angry", simply "this is anger".
We are very grateful to the Oxford Buddha Vihara, to Venerable Pannawamsa, and to all those from across the UK and the world who have contributed to the project. After this bright start, we look forward to continuing with the project, planting more trees, and building friendships.
(take a look at many more photos of the day below...)
