A Sanctuary for the Spirit: Kim Stafford’s Visit to Kominka

This past weekend, Kominka welcomed a very special guest — Kim Stafford, Oregon’s former Poet Laureate, acclaimed writer, and teacher whose words have long illuminated the quiet power of kindness and place. The son of the beloved poet William Stafford, Kim has carried forward his father’s legacy through his own voice — one that listens deeply to the world and gives language to what the heart knows but the mind often forgets.

Kim and his wife, Perrin, stayed at Kominka for two nights — a gift they received through Fishtrap’s annual fundraiser. From the moment they arrived, there was a natural harmony between the couple and this old Japanese-style home. Their presence was gentle, their curiosity alive, and the house seemed to listen back.

Before their departure, Kim wrote to us — a message that captured what Kominka has always quietly aspired to be:

“Perrin and I are already mourning our departure tomorrow from the exquisite refuge you have created at Kominka. Thank you for all you have done to create this sanctuary… (This place is clearly conducive to dreaming.)”— Kim Stafford

During his stay, Kim spent time studying the building’s details — the ancient joinery, the warmth of the wood, and the sense of care embedded in every beam. He even looked up kominka homes for sale in Japan, inspired by the craftsmanship and story held in these traditional houses.

Before leaving, he brought me a handwritten poem — a quiet, powerful piece now awaiting its frame — and gifted us his book, A Proclamation for Peace Translated for the World. Inside are fifty translations of his peace poem, including two in Japanese. He reflected that one translation, when sent through Google Translate back into English, came out with its own soul. He wondered whether this was due to the translator’s artistry or perhaps something innately lyrical in the Japanese language.

“We will tell all we meet for the quiet magic of this dwelling for the spirit.”— Kim Stafford

A Shared Mission with Fishtrap

Our partnership with Fishtrap made this beautiful connection possible. For those unfamiliar, Fishtrap is an organization devoted to nurturing writers, thinkers, and storytellers of the American West — a mission that resonates deeply with the spirit of Kominka.

Fishtrap cultivates clear thinking and good writing in and about the West.Fishtrap invites diverse voices into inclusive, brave spaces.We value thoughtful, honest, and empathetic communication.Fishtrap inspires creative expression through curiosity, learning, and sharing.

At Kominka, I often witness the same quiet transformation that Fishtrap encourages through words: guests slowing down, listening inwardly, and reconnecting with their creative spirit.

Hosting Kim and Perrin was more than an honor. A moment when art, movement, and human connection intertwined naturally.

To our friends at Fishtrap — thank you for this opportunity and for your continued work in cultivating voices that shape both place and spirit. Kominka will proudly display Kim’s poem and share your mission alongside it, as both speak to the same truth: serenity is something we create — not by stopping, but by being fully alive and mindful.

If you plan to attend a Fishtrap workshop, or simply wish for space to write, reflect, and breathe deeply, Kominka welcomes you. Here in the high country of northeast Oregon, life flows quietly but never stands still. The mountains breathe, the wind carries stories, and the house itself seems to whisper — reminding you that serenity isn’t found by stopping, but by living with intention.

Whether you come to write, rest, or rediscover your rhythm, you’ll find Kominka ready — warm light through shoji screens, the scent of cedar and tea, and the gentle energy that invites you back to yourself.

Visit Zen House Kominka on Airbnb  and get inspiration for your own creative journey.