Wat Luang Phor Sodh Buddhist Meditation Institute

An Associated Institution of the World Buddhist University

 

2. Tributes from Meditators

Wenda, Netherlands, November 2006

I didn’t ever have meditation before, and after four weeks here I can come to Nirvana!  I never expected that!  I also learned to be relaxed, and I hope I can bring that home with me.  I liked the way Phra Bart taught me – very seriously at the meditation, but also with a joke afterwards.  I also liked the stories which he told me.  I learned a lot about meditation and Buddhism. 

Kim, Netherlands, June-July 2006:

The meditation gave me peace and happiness.  I learnt to accept myself as I am and I found a way to relax and be peaceful. …Phra Barton introduced me to a way of life I never thought I would find.  Keep up the good work! …I will be back. 

Geoffrey, Belgium, December 2005:

The meditation …improved my life quality.  A new world opened for me. I especially liked Phra Bart’s personal guiding.

Matilda, Sweden, December 2006:

I came here looking for a way to find calmness and relaxation and I did. …I especially liked Phra Barton! He is very good at leading the meditation and good with people – a great combina­tion.  I also liked the tools – the book and the MP3 players helped me a lot. 

Marijn, Netherlands, December 2006:

I learned to concentrate much better and I’m sure I can use this the rest of my life.  I also feel brighter…I liked the talking with people, be­cause the conversations were really deep.  …Keep doing this!  It’s a great opportunity and I learn­ed more in six days than in the last years!

Philipp, Germany, November 2006:

Meditation …Buddhism …and living here made me better understand topics of philosophy, religion, & livelihood ... It added a great experience to my life and will help me to live …in a more peaceful, altruistic way.  I especially liked the way of teaching of Phra Barton, his humor and stories.

Niki, Switzerland/Australia, March 2006:

The meditation was extremely valuable. …Phra Bart opened my eyes and showed me and taught me that through meditation I can rest my mind, charge my batteries, and believe in something (myself too) which I thought did not exist. I liked everything.

Philip, Netherlands, July 2005:

I did not know anything and this lesson can help me with meditation back home in the Netherlands and the rest of my life. I especially liked the feeling of rest, peace, serenity and to see with my mind.  

Jan, United States, December 2005:

This opened my eyes more to things that I previously would not have believed in.  …I espec­ially liked the one-on-one or small group teachings …and, the beautiful and peaceful setting…This experience has truly changed me …it has really meant a lot to me and I will never forget it.   

Salima, France, June 2006:

In meditation, I reached an amazing state of consciousness of love and kindness. I especially liked the special contact with the teachers and the brilliant guidance and comfort.  Most amazing was the direct contact with the most lovely abode (Nirvana).  I never had such an amazing experience. 

Dr. Tan, Malaysia, December 2006:

This is an extremely efficient practice of purification of the mind and …view.  It is the only approach to experience Nibbana (Nirvana) in this very lifetime. 

And, If That's Not Enough -- Many More Tributes

Laura, Netherlands, January 2007:

Very valuable. During the meditations I was able to find myself and to attain inner peace. I discovered a new dimension of the world which I will try to integrate in my normal life. I especially liked sharing the merit during a meditation. To share your light with every being is wonderful to do.

Lieke, Netherlands, December 2006:

My meditation studies helped me to make my concentration better than ever and to feel my centre, which makes me feel much stronger and independent. I especially liked the contact with my centre, and the time to rest and think about many things. The lessons I’ve learned in meditation and in the hours I spent with myself in resting.

Wenda, Netherlands, November 2006 (With Drawing of a Buddha Statue):

From spheres, through 18 bodies and Dhammakayas to Nirvana. I never thought I could do that. Thank you for teaching me how to get there. – Greetings from Wenda.

Philipp, Loes & Monica, Netherlands & Germany, November 2006 (Award):

AWARD: Best Farang Medididitation Teacher In THIS World – Phra Barton.
Specialized Qualities: Sleeping Meditation, Ice-cream Eating, Bubbling, Slomotion Stunts, Animal Language, Story Telling.

Monica, Netherlands, November 2006:

Now I can use meditation to get relaxed. During my stay at Wat Luang Phor Sodh, the meditation helped me to get a clear view of my life. Without forcing anything, I’ve achiev­ed what I wanted from the beginning and I’m proud of it. The time I spent with Phra Barton was fun, but I also learned a lot from it.

Monica, Netherlands, November 2006 (Letter):

Dear Phra Barton,
The last 3 weeks you have guided me and taught me in meditation. Maybe I am not the winner of this Silly Game, even though I feel like I am.
You told me stories about your life and answered my questions. We’ve had a lot of sanuk, especially on our last trip to Damnoen. I achieved my goals which I had set up at the beginning and therefore I would like to thank you. Thanks to your energy, stories and patience, I have had an unfor­get­t­able experience which I will never forget.
The title of your next book will be “The Most Important Thing in Life is Death.” That may be true, but I realized that it’s also important to live our life to the maximum, taking risks and having faith in our destiny, while we are sharing our energy and love.
You are an inspiration source to me and it is an honour that I have met you. I wish you reeeeeelaxed and happy days!
With Love,
Monica

Loes, Netherlands, November 2006:

I have learned and experienced a kind of meditation of which I had never heard be­fore. Even though I had doubts whether I wanted to experience everything, I found my way to deal with it and it certainly was a valuable experience! I especially like the beautiful park around the temple, the peace and quietness and the experience of seeing how the monks live, and, of course, the interesting teacher we had!

Philipp, Germany, November 2006:

Meditation and the teaching of Buddhism, as well as just having the possibility to live here made me better understand topics of philosophy, religion, livelihood and much more. It added a great experience to my life and will help me to live my life in a more peaceful, altruistic way. I especially liked the way of teaching of Phra Barton, his humor and stories. All people here were very nice and I felt comfortable here. It was very good to know that I am accepted as I am – for example as a non-Buddhist.

Jacqueline, Netherlands, September 2006:

The meditation was extremely valuable for developing mindfulness and peacefulness to gain more wisdom about yourself and the world. I especially liked the experience of stillness of the mind and the body.

Esther, Netherlands, August 2006:

The meditation was very valuable because here I learnt more about myself. I learned to observe myself. I am very happy with the book. That will help me to remember. Also, the CDs. I liked the meditation study and the nice conversations with Phra Bart the most. I need to improve my concentration. I think I need more time for practicing, so I think I will come back.

Laura, Ireland, August 2006:

The meditation was very valuable. It enabled me to relax my mind more and block out any outside noise. I liked that everything was done at my own pace and I never felt under pressure to achieve more in the meditation. Continue to offer this programme to foreign students, as very few people are able to practice it.

Faye, United Kingdom, July 2006:

The meditation studies were very valuable. I have learned a lot about meditation and Buddhism, met good people – both Thai and from other parts of the world, and had time to reflect on travels. I especially liked being a part of every day life in the temple, meeting the people who becoming monks, starting my journey in meditation in a beautiful setting.

Kim, Netherlands, June-July 2006:

The meditation was very valuable because it gave me peace and happiness. I learnt to accept myself as I am and I found a way to relax and be peaceful. I especially liked the combination of meditation and the talks about Buddhism with Phra Barton. I liked that he was my teacher, because he introduced me to a way of life I never thought I would find. Keep up the good work and I hope you can introduce a lot of foreign visitors to the world called Buddhism, where I found peace and happiness. Dear Phra Barton, many thanks to you for being my teacher for a month. Thanks for the wonderful stories and teaching me a way of life where I can give to other people and be happy with myself. I will be back.

Lidian, Netherlands, June 2006:

The meditation was extremely valuable. My concentration developed. I can concentrate better on one thing without thoughts flashing through my head. I notice this especially when I am reading books. And, I also learned a lot more about Buddhism and the way of their thinking, because I read a lot of books that were available in Dr. Bart’s house. I liked the way everyone helped me here, espec­ially when I arrived. People made it very comfortable for me to stay here. The private lessons from Dr. Bart really helped me and were very nice. People were very friendly and I felt very safe all the time. So, I think that is an important thing to keep up. Good luck!

Alexandros, Greece, May 2006:

The meditation was extremely valuable, because I have gained new insight to the path of becoming a better human being. I was especially lucky to be in the presence of a highly talented individual concerning this meditation technique. It was an inspiration. Phra Bart and River were most friendly and competent.

Tania, United States, May 2006:

The meditation was very valuable. I’ve learned to sit still and focus. And, I realized that only I block myself from achieving what I must. I’ve attended other retreats and meditation courses, however, with this technique I was able to relax quicker and focus more intently. I enjoyed the meditation sessions with Dr. Phra Barton and River; the chanting, and the peace and energy of the temple.

Martina, Sweden, May 2006:

The meditation gave me an insight into your technique and the possibility to practice for an intense period of time. I liked the way Phra Bart adjusted his teaching to fit my needs, and that the evening chanting included English speech! I also liked the recording of the sessions so I can take them home with me. I’m grateful that I got the chance to come here and I appreciate all you have done for me. Thank you!

Ane, Denmark, April 2006:

The meditation was extremely valuable. I have learned a lot! Now I just need to bring it with me. I especially liked the warm welcome, the guidance and the conversations, and the privilege of participating … All in all, I felt at home. I enjoyed it. I am grateful!

Nadine, Netherlands, April 2006:

Extremely valuable. I learned so much; not only how to meditate, but also about Buddhism, myself, and life! I’ve had a great time; one I will never forget. This was the best ending of a trip one could wish for. I especially liked the people, the atmosphere, the peacefulness – the whole place. And, of course, all of the personal approach and yoga. Thank you so much, River and Phra Bart. I really had a great time. Stay the way you are, it’s lovely.

Jitske, Netherlands, April 2006:

It was extremely valuable. This was my first experience with meditation and it’s amazing how much I learned. I think that I am able to meditate on my own now and practice at home to create a balanced mind. I especially liked the personal meditation lessons and the wonderful atmosphere and environment at Wat Luang Phor Sodh. It’s perfect how it is. Thanks for everything!

Natasha, United Kingdom, March 2006:

The meditation was very valuable because I feel that I really learnt how to relax and be calm. At times I became totally still and could begin to work at the visualization, but this is something I need to work at. It has definitely made me feel more able to be calm in my life some more. I have also learnt a great deal about Buddhism and monks. I especially liked the way we were welcomed in to the temple and allowed to experience many ceremonies. I also especially liked the way we were taught – through a mixture of practice and theory. I feel I have learnt so much!

Niki, Switzerland/Australia, March 2006:

The meditation was extremely valuable. I had doubt about the whole placement and meditation. Phra Bart opened my eyes and showed me and taught me that through meditation I can rest my mind, charge my batteries, and believe in something (myself too) which I thought did not exist. I liked everything. He taught us in a short period of time how to relax and gave us a great intro­duction to meditation. Moreover, we learned more about Buddhism. I felt very comfortable and enjoyed every single minute. I am sad to leave, but I am sure I will keep up my meditation and hope to come back some time. I hope you keep your doors open for foreign students, because this is a won­der­ful place and temple to learn more about meditation and Buddhism. Thank you so much for taking us in and of course for the teaching.

Phoebe, United Kingdom, March 2006:

Very valuable. A great and unusual chance for reflection which I hope has lead to some self-improvement. I struggled to devote my full attention to my time here, but would love to return and try again! The atmosphere – peaceful and calming. The approach – respecting the speed of each individ­ual’s progress. Lovely house.

Liesbeth, Belgium, March 2006:

Through the meditation you find an easy way to find inner peace and discover a whole new world. I especially liked visualizing inside and taking the time to relax.

Valérie, Netherlands, February 2006:

I came here to find some peace in mind, but you taught me that there is more. It’s more than I ever expected. I especially liked the “happy feelings” when you see something special during a medita­tion. Keep on doing this!

Yvette, Netherlands, February 2006:

The meditation was extremely valuable. It has helped me to become more me. And, the pro­gress in meditation wouldn’t have been possible without all your teaching. I liked the teachings in which the teacher can ‘see’ what you see. This is very helpful because without this I would not recog­nise and know everything.

Zsuzsu, Netherlands, January 2006:

The meditation gave me more insight and rest. I experienced something I didn’t know was possible. I especially liked the warmth of staying here.

Jan, United States, December 2005:

This opened my eyes more to things that I previously would not have believed in. I’m cer­tainly very intrigued by the meditation technique here and hope to learn more in the future. I espec­ially liked the one-on-one or small group teachings by a knowledgeable and English-speaking monk. And, the beautiful and peaceful setting of the wat, and the serenity of Trina House. Thank you so much!!! Phra Bart, thank you from the bottom of my sphere for all the time you have dedicated to teach­ing me and giving me guidance. This experience has truly changed me and I know this is not the last I’ll see of Dhammakaya. I hope you know that this experience has really meant a lot to me and I will never forget it.

Filip, Belgium, December 2005:

The meditation technique improved my visualization, relaxation of the body, my intuition and my sensitivity. It put me in a good mood, good state of mind and happiness. I especially liked the teaching and guided meditations from Phra Bart and Phra Walter. Also, the free time was very valuable. It was great to be here again! My meditation has improved so much.

Philip, Netherlands, July 2005:

Very valuable. I did not know anything and this lesson can help me with meditation back home in the Netherlands and the rest of my life. I especially liked the feeling of rest, peace, serenity and to see with my mind. Spread your knowledge to the Western people and the world is going to look more peaceful and the people will become more happy.

Jon, Norway, June 2005:

You can repair your life by doing Dhammakaya meditation.

Pierre, UK/USA, June 2005:

The meditation was extremely valuable. Phra Bart was able to clarify the technique of Dham­ma­kaya Meditation for me and give me a sense that I can continue on with it after I leave Thailand. Phra Bart is a truly generous and able teacher. Everything was laid out clearly and articulately, and he is a pleasure to spend time with. Really insightful. Keep up the important work, and I hope to see a greater presence in the USA and UK in the future.

Alexander, United Kingdom, May 2005:

The meditation was extremely valuable to be able to switch off from the outside world and to be able to focus on learning is always valuable. I especially liked the teacher, as Phra Bart was able to allow a novice to understand. I also liked the kitchen for providing food and the house for staying in.

Loren, United States, June 2003:

The meditation was extremely valuable. To have the book is one thing, but to have one-on-one instruction is by far much more effective. I especially liked being in the presence of proficient meditators and an environment conducive for meditation.

Aldric, United States, December 2002:

The meditation was extremely valuable. It is what we make of it. And, I felt that it helped me to have many daily meditation sessions, built around the morning and evening chanting/meditation sessions. Being away from work was especially relaxing. I liked the flexible schedule and daily med­ita­tion sessions. Being here during the retreat was especially beneficial for me.

Marc, Canada, October 2002:

The information given by Phra Bart, together with the information and guidance given by Phra Maha Sermchai Jayamanggalo (the Abbot) both live and on tape helped me concentrate and visualize positive insight images. Although I came during a very busy time, Phra Bart and Phra Walter were always very hospitable and open for discussion. The Abbot’s guidance in English was most valuable to me. The only improvements could be on my side. The Wat and Institute offer the best environment. I hope to practice meditation more and read more. Keep up the excellent job for more foreigners to come. Your hospitality best prepares an open mind to the Buddha’s teachings.