Sacred Space

Dear Hearts,

Now, more than ever, I hope you are finding a quiet spot on a daily basis where you can settle your mind, B-R-E-A-T-H-E, and be still . . .a rug, corner, chair, closet, a hushed location of your choice devoid of any electronics whatsoever . . . where you can truly decompress, turn inward, pray, meditate . . .

Your Sacred Space.

Calm your Wild Heart.

Occasionally, I have the pleasure of visiting a Sunday morning church service with my Orthodox Christian family members and / or friends (some Greek, some Russian). I find visitation of communal sacred spaces interesting as well as discovery of unique solace.

Naturally, a sacred space of choice can include experiences in nature, playing on the floor with a child or pet, singing (especially in harmony with others), intimacy with a partner, etc. -- just to name a few.

However, Dear Hearts, this Happy Heart enjoys and finds much value in gathering with others, singing, studying ancient texts, and listening to a wise cleric (whose heart is happy as well) impart inspiration.

In my travels and studies, among many other experiences, I have appreciated participation in a Buddhist retreat where this Happy Hearted EXTRAvert learned how to sit still, focus, and allow flow.

Yes, as a symphony violinist, I learned how to focus early on -- a necessary characteristic for mastering the instrument. But my ability to focus was borne out of personal discipline rather than an inward spiritual path. Whatever your belief system, Buddhists have these tools on lock. This particular Sacred Space taught me how to fully utilize them.

An intentional and continuing Christ follower from an early age -- albeit, a not-too-recent- recovering-evangelical-turned-contemplative -- other belief systems do intrigue me; if not at the very least from an anthropological vantage point.

But I digress. Back to my visit . . .

The small Russian Orthodox church I visited last Sunday is a captivating one. With its ample sanctuary where everyone stands throughout the service; and on this particular day with only approximately twenty-five percent of its congregation in attendance, the worshipers easily social distanced themselves. Normally, they greet one another with a hug and a "Holy Kiss" on the cheek.

During a pandemic, this greeting style, sadly, is absent. On any other given non-pandemic Sunday, the doors of this little church are flung open wide to the community after the service for an abundant lunch -- a weekly gift to their neighborhood. Unfortunately, this act of service is not allowed right now. Incense lightly wafts throughout the spacious hall. Multiple thin-stemmed candles and hanging votives are lit.

Sacred Space.

Although I didn't understand one word of the the priest's homily or the choir's songs as they are delivered in Russian, the Spirit is ;certainly sweet. There is no nursery or "children's church" tucking kids away in other areas of the building where they are not seen or heard. Young ones either remain close to their guardians or quietly play.

In fact, one of the lovely characteristics of this church is that they hold high standards and regard for one another and themselves; yet they are open-armed with acceptance and an invitation to join in their love, learning, kindness, and sharing with extreme generosity. Homeless are as welcome as a wealthy CEO.

Sounds Christ-like, doesn't it?

My favorite part was the honor and privilege of the invitation to sit in the balcony at the rear of the sanctuary where the tiny choir sang in resonant three part a cappella harmony throughout the service. Three generations lifted their voices together; the youngest being seven years old. The voices are not exact, but they are pleasant. Typically, my voice teacher self cannot help but notice imperfections -- naturally, with my students. But these vocalists truly make a beautiful "joyful noise" . . .most important.

Sacred Space.

I am not Orthodox or Catholic, and it's only been within the last few years that I have learned about iconography / iconology. In my past ignorant assumption, I thought these two groups worshiped saints and these special paintings -- sort of idolatrous. Since my "enlightenment", I discover that my uneducated thinking could not be further from the truth. Now, as I watch each congregant in this small community of precious believers, I bow my head in humble Gratitude for each saint, each painter who created the sacred work of art via specific steps with particular tools following intense study (not just anyone can paint an icon and have it displayed in an Orthodox church).

In this particular edifice, all of the icons were created and moved from Russia -- one by one. In addition, beautiful frescos depicting Jesus' earthly ministry and, of course, Stations of the Cross, adorn the walls and ceiling in a Sistine Chapel-like artistic style. My favorite fresco is the giant pastel mural at the forefront of the sanctuary behind the alter. It covers the entire wall and is an awe-inspiring portrayal of Christ . . . ascending. His arms open wide, welcoming all -- every man, woman, child of every socioeconomic background -- into a fold of Love.

Sacred Space.

Dear Hearts: However, wherever, and with whomever you give and receive Love is sacred.

Including yourself.

May I encourage you to explore the many opportunities to commune with others -- in prayer, sharing, breaking bread, studying, appreciating, participating . . .calming your Wild Heart. "Where two or three are gathered in my name, there will I be also." - Jesus Christ In addition, spend time alone . . . going inward, deep into your soul. Your own Sacred Space. The Divine within.

And sit there.

*As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualified purchases.