Reflections in the Wilderness - Sigurd F. Olson

Life in the wilderness, especially when one is alone, is a continual
contemplation and communion with God and Spirit regarding
eternal values.  One does not have to assume any particular
stance, invoke incantations, repeat over and over again words
such as Om, chant, or sing.  To me these are merely hypnotic
devices used to bring the mind into focus and into the realm
of silence by those who do not have the privilege of living in
situations where peace is all around them.  There is no doubt
of the efficacy of such ways of preparation or they would not
be followed by hundreds of thousands, but when quiet is all
around, with no sounds but natural ones - bird songs, wind,
washing of waters against shores - the stage is always set for
meditation and reflection, whatever one may choose to call
it.  Man may not be conscious of contemplation or seeking
wisdom, for often no revelations come.  Normal and
unplanned contemplation comes as softly as the falling rain
or the first snows in late fall when the entire world is waiting.
While no great answers may come at these times, they do
infiltrate occasionally and unobtrusively into one's
consciousness, but usually there is simple a sense of peace,
removal, and a happiness beyond understanding.

Sigurd F. Olson
Reflections From The North Country

with thanks to Heron Dance

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Photo - Mystic Meandering

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Although I may not wander in the wilderness, 
this is why I like the Quiet late at night,
when the house is quiet and I can settle into
a deeper communion with the deep Quiet within -
not always, but often, occasionally hearing
the echo of an owl in the trees... and fall
into sleep...

MM