by Rob Stucky
Many people have preconceptions about spiritual retreats, but they may not be accurate. Let’s face it, what we think of as “spiritual” may be colored, positively or negatively, by our experience of a related, but decidedly not synonymous term, “religion” - and what we understand “retreat” to mean could be anything from getting away for a change of pace, to admitting defeat in battle. So let’s be clear: Some deliberate exposure to silence is a key component in our retreats. I realize that promoting “silence” itself may be an intimidating idea for some. As creatures of habit, in our hectic world, full of constant chatter, living life in perpetual high-gear, we often don’t even recognize how noisy our minds have become. For many people, this chatter is a sort of familiar, almost comforting background noise, a constant hum that let’s us know we’re still alive. Even if our mental hyperactivity bothers us, it is surprising to many that when we do try to stop all that, we discover that our minds still keep running at full speed, impelled by the momentum of sheer habit, and the noise of that, made all too apparent by unfamiliar silence, can feel deafening, maddening, or even terrifying! Silence brings it all into high relief, and doesn’t feel silent at all, at least, not at first! The reality is, of course, that given time, the right circumstances, and some very simple practices, the mind’s momentum will gradually slow down, simply by removing some of its habitual distractions and redirecting it’s focus. Taking advantage of some outer silence can lead us to an inner silence that is, paradoxically, rich and eloquent. Touching that experience, even briefly, can bring us a sense of renewal and gentle clarity that empowers us to return to our “ordinary” lives with fresh perspective and greater peace and joy. Our intention is that our retreats create optimal opportunities and provide some basic tools for that to happen. Assisi is one of those places, deemed a sacred, planetary power spot by the aficionados of metaphysical lore, but easily experienced as simply a uniquely lovely and peaceful place by even the most worldly. It is the milieu in which two of Christianity’s greatest mystics lived, taught, died, and are buried, and as such, it is uniquely conducive to moving beyond tourism to take an inner journey. The symbiotic relationship between the beauty of Assisi and the beautiful teachings of Saints Francis and Claire is palpable to anyone who cares to explore it. By joining us on retreat, we invite you to learn how not to feel defeated by the busyness of your life. With the shining examples of Francis and Claire to inspire us, and the sheer beauty of the environment to aide us, discovering our inner realms, and making friends with all they can teach us, can be one of life’s greatest adventures! Peace and Blessings, Rob
2 Comments
10/27/2022 02:44:21 pm
Thanks for sharing the article, and more importantly, your personal experience of mindfsdcully using our emotions as data about our inner state and knowing when it’s better to de-escalate by taking a time out are great tools. Appreciate you reading and sharing your story since I can certainly relate and I think others can to
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AuthorEntries are from our Community of Retreat leaders that provide year round retreats in Assisi, Italy Archives
September 2018
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We are a non-profit organization that supports people of all religions, countries and backgrounds to live a deeply satisfying spiritual life.
The path of great love and peace is to pursue a life full of heart that includes; devotion, simplicity, humility and service to others.
We are a non-profit organization that supports people of all religions, countries and backgrounds to live a deeply satisfying spiritual life.
The path of great love and peace is to pursue a life full of heart that includes; devotion, simplicity, humility and service to others.
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Silent Stay Meditation Center Santa Barbara, California www.SilentStay.com
Spring Grove Inc. 501(c)(3) non-profit
© since 1986 - present
Silent Stay Meditation Center Santa Barbara, California www.SilentStay.com
Spring Grove Inc. 501(c)(3) non-profit
© since 1986 - present
No part of this website may be copied or distributed without express permission of the Founders, Ruth or Bruce Davis, PhD