Deer Park Monastery (Escondido, California)

I sometimes think about joining a monastery to focus solely on peace. So, when we passed through Escondido, California, this winter, I found my way to Deer Park Monastery.

Thich Nhat Hanh, the beloved monk, poet, peace activist, and author, founded Deer Park Monastery as a place to support peace, mindfulness, and Buddhism.

Meditations, retreats, education, and engagement with like-minded others occur here.

One of my greatest regrets is that I didn’t visit Thich Nhat Hanh’s monasteries while he was here on earth, teaching in them. I always think about what a gift that would have been.

To my surprise, as we entered the grounds of Deer Park Monastery, it wasn’t like anything I expected. But it was like something I’ve known.

Secluded nature. Humble infrastructure. Meager funding. I almost cried.

Located on a mountain, its long drive wove us through boulders, shrubs, cactus, and even trees elegantly weaving their way skyward. I walked the final winding path to the top.

Welcoming messages, trails, meadows, basic camping plots, and the sounds of nature greeted me along the way. In the middle of nowhere, I didn’t feel alone. I felt peace.

The meditation hall was beautiful. But my heart ached for its immediate surroundings and most of the additional structures.

Out of respect, I kept my photos few, capturing what was lovely at this monastery. There was so much more beauty in the kindness of all who were there.

Yet I couldn’t help but worry about the monks. They seemed to be living and working in structures that are desperate for repair and replacement.

I could see how much they deserve small, beautiful structures with surrounding vegetation that supports their nurturing focus. Yet I can’t provide that for them.

So I’m publishing this post for those who are fortunate enough to have endless money to spare. Please consider how you might help those who are teaching peace.