Poetry that Opens the Dharma Heart to Compassion and Insight (PM1D26)

Registration closes at 8:30am (Pacific Time) on August 15, 2026. A waiting list will be created if the program fills early. Please read Important Notes below.*

Program to be held on the land only

Description:
For 26 years, Phillip Moffitt has offered this beloved annual gathering—a daylong where poetry reading and practice interweave to illuminate the Buddha’s path of awakening.

In this unique retreat, sitting and walking meditation are woven together with the living voice of poetry. Each poem is selected by Phillip to point directly at Dharma insights—the truths that free us, soften us, and help us see the world through eyes of wisdom and compassion. Part of the joy of this day is that participants recite the poetry selections to the group in attendance.

These are poems that comfort and inspire, that carry our meditation understandings off the cushion and into the lived experience of our daily lives. This is also a day of joy and lightheartedness. If you’ve never read a poem aloud to others, let this be your invitation to free your voice and discover a new form of expression.

Benefactor – $310
Sustainer – $235
Basic – $140
Scholarship Rate (BIPOC, M/K) – $70
**Volunteer/Work Exchange opportunities, which include full or partial scholarships, may be available for in-person programs. For more information, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at volunteering@spiritrock.org.

• The on-land day program will take place in the Community Meditation Center in the Great Hall.
• Bring a sack lunch and a water bottle. Lunch will not be provided.
• This is NOT a residential retreat. Overnight accommodations are not provided.

COVID Safety Protocols for non-residential programs: details here.

Cancellation Policy for On-Land Day Programs:

• NO REFUNDS.
• Open Credit or Donation to Spirit Rock = cancel 2 or more business days prior to program (Pacific Time)
• No Open Credit = cancel less than 2 business days prior