Author’s note: since the blog below was written, I’ve attended the 2010 and 2011 gatherings. While the attendees changed, and the program varied a bit, the coming-together was time very well spent. The majesty of the setting remained untouched, and the hospitality of the organizer, Giselle Balleys, remained exceptional.

I write this as the summer 2010 Krishnamurti Gathering is to be announced, to take place in Mürren. I attended the 2009 Mürren gathering for the full two weeks and offer these impressions for those who couldn’t be there, and for those considering traveling to the 2010 event. The Krishnamurti Gathering is an opportunity to immerse oneself in the “talks” on video, and related discussions, in a setting of great natural beauty.

Paragliding from the Schilthorn Peak; a James Bond film was shot here.

In world racing to demonstrate that most of K’s dire predictions were absolutely accurate (terrorism, computer and media altering human thought, environmental degradation, to name a few…) I wondered what it might be like to live for two weeks among others similarly moved. In a few decades of exposure to K’s work, I seldom ventured into “organized K,” preferring to learn on my own by listening to the talks, re-listening, and finally, learning to listen. Learning by approximations, the little bits I grasped were powerful, and gave way to deeper understanding, and action.

In Mürren, I was fascinated to encounter people whose interpretation of the talks was far more exploratory and intricate than mine, who referred to quantum theory, infinity, and multiple realms of being while elucidating K. I also encountered those who were utterly lost, who knew something important was there, but had no idea how to bring it to light. In the small discussion groups the two extremes were brought together, the group facilitators (that I witnessed) had a very light hand.

People of all ages and economic and social backgrounds came from throughout the world, all touched by the thought of one man. There were nearly sixty attendees; the dominant clique the first week was undoubtedly the Spanish. They ate together, laughed loudly in sync, had their own discussion groups, sang for us, and were demonstrative. (The dining room seemed library-quiet after they departed.) The second week was marked by a small Indian contingent that contributed an entirely different flavor to the discussion groups, and was more keen to integrate.

The most extraordinary aspect of the Gathering, was that so many people could be lodged in a rather simple hotel, without any need for the distracting and irritating procedural announcements that characterize group activity, such as where to place shoes, something of value gone missing, and so on. That was partly a tribute of course to the superb and sensitive organization of the Gathering. If I had to pick one aspect that seemed to bind the group, it would be “maturity”. Perhaps that’s the byproduct of being drawn to Krishnamurti’s work. Maturity is a big factor at the Gathering because nothing is obligatory – one can attend a discussion or video showing, or take a beautiful walk instead. Rules are few, and common sense prevails.

Trail markers are ubiquitous; one can always find one's way.

The setting is spectacular. The giant granite Jungfrau mountain face roars up in close proximity to the Sport Chalet; this, combined with the intense discussions, made deep sleep elusive for me. The two hiking days per week accommodated all levels (thank you, Astrid). The routes were marked with Swiss precision, and the vistas postcard perfect. Hiking is a wonderful way to get to know the people around you, and to know yourself, both physically and mentally. I suggest bringing proper hiking boots if you wish to reach the higher elevations. (Boots can also be rented, locally.)

To enhance understanding of the talks, and stamina for the hikes, late afternoon classes in Qi gong, hatha yoga, and Feldenkrais were offered, depending on the day. The inn’s food was strictly old-style vegetarian and rather banal. I found it useful to shop once at the health food store in Interlaken for grains, quality yogurt, and anything organic (best to do this before reaching Mürren). There’s very little organic food available in Mürren, and one missed the possibility of even a modest communal kitchen as an occasional alternative to the hotel fare.

Evenings were dotted with events, such as dancing, or audio talks, and once a week, a musical gathering. The latter which took place the evening before departure, was again extraordinary for its contrasts. Accomplished, talented musicians shared a stage with those who had some talent, and with those who had none discernable but were warrior-like in their fearlessness. The presence of the Brockwood Park students, present and former, was an absolute delight in Mürren. They contributed a great deal to discussions, to humor, and to the overall sense of adventure. I found them indispensable.

The Krishnamurti Gathering is a marvelous opportunity to make friends who share a truly special bond. And to explore what makes that bond so special.

first appeared on kinfonet.org, photographs by the author