My first direct experience with Buddhism and meditation was a week-long silent retreat at the Insight Meditation Society (IMS) in Barre, MA with teacher Ruth Dennison. Talk about "sink or swim"!

I am very glad that I did a week-long retreat instead of just going for a weekend. This gave me sufficient time to work through the various beginner problems that most people experience when sitting for long periods of time. Otherwise, I would have thought meditation was just an exercise in frustration and pain. In the long run, it is the exact opposite!

IMS definitely has the feeling of a "sacred place" — much more than the Kripalu yoga center (which is wonderful in other ways). The IMS grounds are beautiful and peaceful. The accomodations are simple, but conducive to the overall experience. I would definitely like to go back again sometime.