Awakening spirit

ON SACRED PLACES AND SACRED SPACES:
"Grant me the ability to be alone,
May it be my custom to go outdoors each day
among the trees and grasses
among all growing things
and there may I be alone,
and enter into prayer
to talk with the One
that I belong to."
(quote by Rabbi Nachman of Bratzlav)

When I discovered solitude provided me with an extraordinary opportunity for reflection and self-discovery, I began to more deeply appreciate this 'gift' of my longing nature. I also began to

detach myself from the harsh judgment [of others, of myself] that it was abnormal of me to want to be alone. What may have initially been the consequence of not feeling that I was 'good enough' to be in a relationship was, ultimately, a catalyst for learning genuine love and authenticity -- that I did not require the 'validation' of anyone else to affirm my worth. Being one with the silence within has allowed me the grace of 'hearing' [nee feeling] with so much more than solely my ears. 'Hearing' the symphony of my heart and soul has proven a most incredible healing journey that led to my awakening spirit.

Stephanie Doty
Simply Amazing
February 3, 2014
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