Do you have a safe place…one you call your sacred spot…your retreat from the noise and chatter of the rest of the world?
Lucky you, if you do.
Those of us, who are city bound, have become captive to the incessant cacophony of traffic, machinery, others. It’s difficult to find a place of calmness, silence, quietude.
Many retreat to a private world, by plugging in to one’s own music. But, one needs the natural sounds of the world, as well. One needs peace. A chance to think.
Where to find that in a bustling metropolis?
If your living space is not conducive, perhaps a public library, cathedral, temple, mosque, prayer room or park is an option. Manhattan even has a wonderfully soothing Labyrinth of Contemplation in its Battery Park.
One can find free sanctuaries.
But, perhaps thinking is a frightening concept to some. Perhaps the noise is not a hindrance, but an avoidance.
If so, I propose not-thinking.
Meditation is a practice of emptying the mind. It’s not that difficult, if you think, no…, consider it as if pouring water out of a pitcher. Actually, the image and sound of water can help clear your head. Then, hum some sounds. (There are standard mantras of sounds, but it’s best to begin the practice by making your own sounds.)
And, once thinking returns…which it inevitably will…, you’ll realize how refreshing that escape, however brief, has been. And, you’ll relish experiencing it again.
Then, perhaps, you’ll understand that everyone deserves to benefit from such a refuge, that the concept of sanctuary should be expanded beyond oneself to fostering a culture that embraces everyone; one that allows everyone to have a personal oasis, a sense of being “home.”
The reality is that none of us can be truly secure until this entire planet becomes a house without walls where everyone is welcome, where everyone is able to have a safe place.
Help to make it so.