“The further the soul is from the noise of the world, the closer it may be to its Creator, for God, with his holy angels, will draw closer to a person who seeks solitude and silence.” —Thomas a Kempis, The Imitation of Christ

If that which you seek cannot be found within you, you will never find it outside of you. For behold, I have been with you from the beginning; and I am that which is attained at the end of desire. —Doreen Valiente, excerpt from Charge of the Goddess

Meditation, centering and grounding are as important as the air we breathe.  These spiritual practices are the wind that fills our spiritual, emotional and mental sails with power and vitality. We cannot truly know the Holy One if we don’t shut up every once in a while and let the Divine get a word in edgewise!

I first got interested in meditation during a very stressful period in my life.  I was feeling burned out and exhausted so I went on a Christian spirituality retreat hoping to recharge my batteries.  One of the sessions during the retreat was on meditation.  I was taught a few beginner exercises such as an Object Prayer and a Breath Prayer.  (They are covered elsewhere on my blog.)  These meditative practices were like a cool glass of water on a hot summer day to me.  They spoke deeply to my soul and, long story short, I’ve been a meditator ever since!

Along the way I’ve added to my knowledge.  I read most of the writings of the Christian mystics and discovered “my people.”  I took an amazing class on mindfulness that was taught by a Buddhist.  I learned the power of grounding and energy raising from two Wiccan priestesses.  It’s all good and it’s all wonderful!

Meditation may be one of the few spiritual practices that ties all faith traditions together.  I have found that it brings us closer to the Great Mystery we call by many names and helps us to be a more loving and peaceful presence in our chaotic world.  If you’ve never given it a try, I hope you will.  It is a powerful spiritual practice that should not be missed!

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