Caretakers
Though the caretakers' position is different from the wwoof program, it has the same requirements:
A genuine desire to live simply and become more aware of our relationship to the elements and all sentient beings, and how our actions affect others.
Physical, mental and emotional stability.
No nicotine, pot, or alcohol.
Being accountable for one's actions.
Financial resources to cover personal needs such as food, clothing, medical care, transportation, etc.
No adherance to religious (or other) dogmas. In other words: an open mind.
An interest in nonviolent communication and pure listening, and cultivating a non-reactive, "zero state" when communicating.
A commitment to investigating stressful thoughts and stories.
A willingness to consider that authenticity and honest, conscious communication* are more important than being right.
The capacity to differentiate between reality and the stories which obscure it.
A willingness to own one’s projections and communicate simply, directly, and honestly.
The ability and willingness to commit to a daily schedule.
The ability to follow instructions and a flexible attitude with daily projects in particular and with life in general.
Skills in gardening or building and/or housekeeping and/or land maintenance.
A genuine love of the land and an understanding of "The Great Turning" which we are currently in the midst of on this beloved planet.
Conscious communication by Cynthia Kane:
To speak consciously, clearly, and concisely without anxiety
To respond instead of react
To speak in a way that's kind, honest, and helpful
To know when to speak and when to stay quiet
To stay engaged when listening
To express yourself so that others can hear you
To nip potential problems in the bud before they become meltdowns
To be comfortable in silence - no longer needing to fill the space
We also ask that NO toxic products or artificial fragrances are used here, whether in mosquito repellants, shampoos, hair rinses, deodorants, perfumes, dish soaps or laundry detergents. Many people who visit are chemically sensitive AND we want to honor the land by not using chemicals!
No kerosene lamps or paraffin candles either. Many people don't realize that paraffin is a petroleum-based substance and very toxic.
"Caretakers" are here as a couple—and OCCASIONALLY as families with children. The adults each offer 20 hours per week tending and beautifying the gardens and doing whatever needs doing. Children also offer time, caring for animals and the gardens, learning what it is like to participate in a co-created community.
Sometimes I am here while caretakers are here and sometimes I am off island.
Caretakers have their own private cottage, which has a small kitchen, a composting toilet and an outdoor shower. They also have access to beautiful gardens and an ancient forest which borders the sanctuary, use of a beautiful yoga deck overlooking the ocean and use of an octagonal, cedar healing space for meditation.
We do not have (or want) WIFI at the sanctuary so we use ethernet cables for high speed internet.(Please do NOT bring any large appliances. The batteries connected to the solar panels will be quickly drained!)
Live simply so others may simply live.
–Mahatma Gandhi
When I am off island, the caretakers care for all of the wonderful animals with whom we share this land. (At present, we have six cats, seven peacocks, five goats, a horse and two dogs.)
Several of the caretakers who have been here over the years have returned two or three times and they recommend the sanctuary to family and friends. If the exchange is MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL, caretakers are welcome to stay for prolonged periods.
This means that if they are benefiting from being here AND if the land, animals, and other guests and retreatants are benefiting from their presence.
Caretakers pay a non-refundable deposit of $100 (per couple), $10 per month, per person, towards the water bill, and they pay for propane—for their hot water and stove.
Our one policy, for retreatants, wwoofers, sevadars, guests, and caretakers is very simple: if you lose or break something, please fix or replace it. (If Rashani loses or breaks something of yours, she will do the same!) Mutual accountability nurtures sustainable relationships.)
Because we are off grid, the systems do not accommodate large appliances!