Buddhist Monastery Fights Power Line

May 6, 2008

Author: Robert King

Source: The Buddist Channel/NV Daily

http://www.buddhistchannel.tv/index.php?id=61,6353,0,0,1,0

Deep in the woods of West Virginia, a small, Buddhist monastery uses the calm of nature to meditate. To the Bhavana Society, a monastery in High View, roughly 6 miles from Gore, the forest is an integral part of their religion.

"The forest is considered like our temple," said Bhante Rahula, a monk and vice abbot at the monastery. "In being with nature ... it can have an effect on the mind. We tune our mind to the natural vibrations in the forest."

Yet the society fears that natural atmosphere will be shattered if a controversial high-voltage power line is built near the monastery. Rahula said the proposed line could impact the delicate meditation process and deter potential guests.