So how do things play out on the Small Mouth Sounds silent retreat? Are the participants nervous beforehand, and do they find the inner peace they're looking for? Which of these photos would best represent “before” and which “after”?

The retreat participants: Rodney (front row) and back row (from left to right) Jan, Judy, Joan, Ned and Alicia.

Would the idea of a silent meditation retreat in the woods fill you with joy or horror? Would you be more worried about confronting your own inner demons or potentially being trapped in the forest with a bunch of psychos? Well, if you were taking part, these are the thoughts that would be buzzing around the heads of your fellow participants on the night before the retreat. Who would you be most like, and who would you most like to avoid?

“This time something will change. I just know it. I’ll be able to get through to them. And that will help me deal with my own… circumstances. It will. No, this time it really will.” – the Teacher

“Looking forward to losing my ‘retreat virginity’, even though it feels weird and kind of scary. I’ve never really been into this spirituality stuff, but I’m hoping it will make me feel okay again.” – Alicia

“That last retreat I attended really helped me clear my mind and recharge. Here’s hoping that happens again, because I’m just too tired to deal with anything anymore.” – Joan

“Can’t wait to spend another five days of quality time with Joan! Gotta say I’m not really looking forward to yet another retreat, but Joan loves them and I wouldn’t want her to go with someone else.” – Judy

“Finally! Time for another retreat. Time to escape from this boring everyday shit and be Myself. And have people see the real ME. Even if it’s only for five fucking days.” – Rodney

“Kinda nervous about meeting Her, but boy do I need to feel some kind of spiritual connection with my fellow humans again – romantic or platonic or whatever – and in a place like this, anything could happen….” – Ned 

“Meditation? Why the hell did I sign up for meditation? Oh well, maybe it might end up doing me some good? It sure can’t be worse than that last thing I tried. I mean, what's the worst that could happen?” – Jan 

What indeed….?

Photos: Anni Taponen
Text: Zach Chamberlaine

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