Hybrid (Online and In-Person)
April 24 - April 28, 2026

Join us for a Dekeling Community retreat at Ser Chö Ösel Ling Retreat Center in Goldendale, WA Led by Lama Lekshe. SCOL is the Buddhist retreat center where Lama Lekshe engaged in her three year retreat. The environment is exceptionally supportive to retreat.

Buddhist teachings tell us that as the body begins the process of dying, the long-held reference points that sustain a sense of ‘self’ gradually fall away. In this dissolution, the mind may become exceptionally clear and steady, creating a rare opening for the trained practitioner to recognize the nature of mind. Our tradition includes many practices designed to cultivate the capacity to meet this precious interval with clarity rather than fear.

These methods help gently replace fear of death, pain, and other unwanted experiences with receptivity. They also transform the habitual tendency to turn away from the unknown, allowing for greater ease and clarity in the face of death—as well as in ordinary life. While we prepare for dying, we become less and less fettered, more grounded in ease and joy. 

This is not a beginning retreat. We recommend at least one year of regular meditation practice. We will explore several forms of meditation and contemplation that strengthen the capacity to remain open to experience. Resources for continued practice at home will be provided.

George Draffan will offer short, optional periods of silent qi gong at regular intervals to support easeful, sustainable sitting—on cushions or chairs. George will also give a brief introduction to simple beginner’s qi gong before the retreat begins.

After a friendly integration dinner on Friday evening, we will enter focused silence for the duration of the retreat, except during liturgy and question-and-answer periods.

All participants, including those attending by Zoom, are expected to attend all sessions. Zoom attendees should keep their cameras on. To honor the preciousness of retreat, our days will be full but spacious, with adequate breaks. There will be a longer midday break for walking, napping, study, or movement practice. Each in-person participant will be assigned a simple daily work-service.

For more Dekeling programs on death and dying in 2026, keep an eye on our events.

Please direct questions about the retreat to info@dekeling.community.

Registration Opens in 2026.