GSV 2019 Winter Meditation
Tranquil Reflection & Mindful Intention
January 18-20, 2019
The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center ~ Highlands, NC
Dear Siblings, When there are no ripples on the water of a lake its surface becomes almost invisible as it reflects the beauty of the landscape around it; the trees and the sky. In the same way, the still mind reflects the beauty of creation and melts into a state of peaceful awareness. In this state of thoughtless awareness we think neither of the past nor of the future. We are entirely in the present moment as we start to enjoy our Self, our spirit, our own inner beauty and the beauty of creation. We simply embrace being and become less distracted by the simple joys of our existence. Meditation is a state of profound and deep peace that occurs when the mind is calm and silent, yet completely alert. This is just the beginning of an inner transformation that takes us to a higher level of awareness. Whatever method of meditation is used, the purpose is not to fight off the mind chatter of thoughts, but to stay focused on the present moment and use our breathing, a mantra, a repetitive activity or other technique to keep us grounded in the moment. When we have silenced the chatter and become focused on the present moment, we open ourselves to clarity, direction, and inspiration. This year’s Winter Meditation will provide you the opportunity to experience activities with the purpose of creating space to be present and open to clarity. Silent, Guided, and Mindful meditation will be offered. Additionally, Sacred Sound Journey, Chakra Dhyana, and Sacred Healing Touch will be offered. Active methods of creating present awareness will include T‘ai Chi Ch‘üan, Iyengar Yoga, Theravada Walking Meditation, and Contemplative Drumming. Finally, intention setting activities will include Soulful Breathwork, Mindful Scripting, and Sacred Elder Bead stringing. The weekend will start with a pilgrimage of light and be complete with the calm of thoughtful intention. Pack a “steamer trunk” if you wish and be sure to include warm comfortable clothing for times of stillness, loose attire for movement activities, ritual attire (robe, cape, cassock, etc.) for a pilgrimage, a mat, pillow and/or blanket for other activities, a drum, pen and paper, and flannel jammies! I hope you will join your brothers at The Mountain in January to be in the midst of love, reflection, consciousness, stillness, presentness, and…. to just be! I look forward to seeing you in January. Bill Harris 2019 Winter Meditation Convener Register for the 2019 Winter Meditation