Day 2 at SpiritRest

Post by Rev. Dr. Arvid Straube, lead spiritual director

Tuesday: Deepening

I’ve got peace like a river in my soul…..

This is a line from one of the songs we sang this evening at our Vespers service. We have completed the second full day of silence. SpiritRest participants were seen entranced by the landscape, by flowers and trees, by birds and squirrels, and even leaves and acorns.  As the silence deepens in each individual, the mind settles and quiets. In spiritual direction sessions seekers reported a deepening and more frequent inner peace.

I’ve got tears like the raindrops in my soul...

Out of that peace some report that there is space to gently and compassionately hold worry, grief, and anger more lightly, and to have some space around them;  to let them be and learn from them. During this afternoon’s prayer circle, those who chose to participate shared their lives and these experiences courageously and allowed the rest of us the privilege of praying aloud for therm. The power and insight of those prayers, coming as they did from the collective love of the group—and Beyond, was surprising and inspiring. Love was in the room in a very palpable way.

I’ve got love like an ocean in my soul...

Many other things happened, which we could choose to participate in or not. Participants were able to share their experiences and frustrations with meditation and learn a new style of Mindfulness practice. Or do Qi Gong together. Those who wished even fed each other in a communion service.

More opportunities and experiences await us tomorrow, as our silence continues to deepen.