APPRECIATION
  
  Those who attended the meditation retreat in November 1987 at 
  Pelmadulla Bhikkhu Training Centre, Ratnapura District, Sri Lanka, 
  Have made it possible to print these Dhamma talks given during the 
  retreat. They felt that others too could benefit from them and 
  supported and encouraged this project so that it has now come to 
  fruit.
  
    Not only am I thankful for their help with this book, but also most 
  appreciative of their presence at the retreat, which enabled me to 
  give these talks.
    
    Special gratitude is offered to Lasanda Kurukulasuriya, who 
  selflessly and lovingly typed and re-typed the manuscript.
    
    The Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement through their President Dr. 
  Ariyaratne kindly provided us with transport and offered the use of 
  the Centre premises, which was another meritorious service in the long 
  list of their humanitarian efforts.
    
    As always, my friend and Dhamma sister Ayya Nyanasiri (Helen Wilder) 
  has given the last polish and much invaluable advice, without which I 
  would probably never have published any books at all.
    
    May the merits of this Gift of Dhamma bring much benefit to all.
    
                                               Sister Ayya Khema
                                               
  Parappuduwa Nuns Island,
  Dodanduwa,
  Sri Lanka.
  December 31st, 1989
  
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                                PREFACE
  
  Meditation retreats are a time for introspection. Because they are 
  held in silence, except for Dhamma talks and questions, the mind 
  becomes more and more used to mindfulness and concentration. This 
  gives added impetus to the hearing of Dhamma, so that the truth of the 
  Buddha's teaching can leave a lasting impression.
  
    When you open this book, dear reader, may be you could imagine being 
  in a meditation retreat, where nothing else matters except the clarity 
  and wholesomeness of your own mind. This means leaving all daily 
  preoccupations aside and focusing strictly on the wonderful freedom 
  the Buddha's teaching and practice can provide. May you enjoy the 
  following pages and find something useful in them.
  
                                               Sister Ayya Khema
                                          
                                          
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