Let silence take you to the core of life.

— Rumi

Greetings, Inspired Seekers:

April brings us many gifts – the first signs of spring, the warmth of the sun after the winter chill, lighter clothing and other re-entries into the outdoor world. This April also brings us another gift – perhaps a deeper spiritual one – the gift of silence offered by many traditions.

The final Holy Week of Lent, the continuation of Ramadan and the sacred rite of Passover all give generously this month. They all give the same gift – the gift of Holy Silence.

How much time do you give to silence as a salve of self-care or as a time of reconnection to Spirit? I admit, this is not an easy feat, given that the world is confounded by silence and frenetically tries to fill it. All. The. Time. Silence is, often, uncomfortable and, therein lies its gift.

For silence is really a presence rather than an absence; silence holds us, supports us and gives us the space to slow down, listen and reconnect through the gift of quiet grace that silences the mind. Whether we practice a form of meditation, Centering Prayer or another type of silent devotion, the practice should bring us into a new land, a richer and more fertile land for spiritual maturity to flourish.

When we have grown and expanded our faith, we come to understand that silence and sound actually exist together and offer us a vast array of spiritual opportunities. Both are united in their gifts of growth and connection, and the Divine can be seen and known in both.

So, this month, may your tradition bring you moments of deep, rich, expansive silence and, in those moments, may you and your God listen deeply to each other – until you find comfort in the uncomfortable.

Grace, Always Yours,
Reverend Deborah

Question of the Month: Are you willing to be silent enough to listen?

The Reverend Dr. Deborah Darlington meets regularly with people of all traditions, holding space for them to hear the sounds in holy silences. She can be reached at GraceMatters@TheSpaceForGrace.com or 215 260 1611.