Retreat - Refuge: March 2 - 8

Seven Oaks Retreat Center in Madison, Virginia.

Last week I reflected on the word retreat as a verb, meaning to withdraw or to run back to a place of safety. When I find myself just spinning my wheels, ruminating on my fears, the smartest thing I can do is just stop and find my way back home.

This week I reflect on the word retreat as a noun, meaning a place of refuge, a time to remove one's self from the busyness of life, a space for interior reflection. And that's exactly what I'm doing. Please think of me as I go on a 4-day silent retreat later this week.

A Great Pilgrimage

I felt in need of a great pilgrimage

so I sat still for three days

and God came

to me.

-Kabir

Practice

Please join me on retreat. A retreat can be for 3 days. A retreat can be for 20 minutes. A retreat can be for 3 breaths. Figure out what makes most sense for you.

1. Clear your calendar. Set a timer. Collect your thoughts.

2. Find a comfortable space. Light a candle. Listen to the body.

3. Sit in stillness. Journal. Share with a friend.

Be creative. Pick a practice that speaks to you today. Set an intention to do good.