When we took our class trip to Lions Gate Bridge, I was excited to be getting outside and away from the class room. I enjoy letting my mind wander when immersed in nature. It was hard for me to make my transition into the spiritual element of the place at the beginning of class while we were all together. After we finished class and went off on our own I began to allow my mind to fall into itself. I quite began to become aware of each tree branch extending over head and each root I was stepping over. The slow reduction of color and light during the evening transformed the forest into a mysterious and inviting place. I felt an urge to walk off the trail and into the woods. There completely surrounded by the vegetation and shadows I felt at ease. My setting was allowing me to detach from my stressful academic life. Now I could think more clearly and felt a growing sense of contentment. I had been in the same woods before and not felt as profoundly changed as I was feeling then. Usually I am talking with others or worrying about my next class, or what to eat for dinner, but that day I was able to find solace in the woods. Sacred place chooses you, you do not choose it. This is one of Lane's four axioms designed to help students of spirituality characterize sacred place. I felt that the place had chosen me, as I was focused and prepared to allow the spiritual connection to happen. Wilderness or natural settings are the most effective places for me to have spiritual experiences, and I was glad to have my encounter that day.
December 1, 2013
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