THIS SPREAD , CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT : A Japanese torii gate is inscribed with “ om mani padme hum ,” a Sanskrit mantra of compassion ; roses gifted to the couple ; the backyard leads to Buckeye Brook ; a picturesque idyll in the yard ; a mermaid fountain . and I never thought I ’ d pay that much . It ’ s right beside a tree that cost $ 3 at Ocean State Job Lot that I stuck in the ground and now it ’ s a huge thing . And they ’ re beautiful together .”
Friends also gave plant clippings , as well as rose bushes , as wedding gifts , so sections of the property bear names like Irinia , Jared and Cheri in remembrance . Strolling the paths through the lush landscape , the couple remembers friends and family among the Asiatic lilies , climbing clematis , yellow St . John ’ s wort and pops of bright blue irises .
The Browns say the space is a culmination of these memories and peaceful moments of reflection . This serenity , in lieu of vibrancy , showmanship or expense , is a Buddhist influence , and is inspired by their practice . Adjacent to the river , a torii gate — a traditional Japanese gate located at the entrance to a Shinto shrine — is inscribed with “ om mani padme hum ,” a Sanskrit mantra of compassion . Inside is a sacred reliquary featuring a bead bracelet , prayer flags and charms blessed by the Dalai Lama .
“ Buddhists say the way you live life , you should be like a honeybee . Come into the garden , pollinate the flower , then you leave and no one knows you were there . You just do some good but make no disturbance ,” Cathal says . “ And we want people to come and have that kind of experience .”
114 RHODE ISLAND MONTHLY l JUNE 2024