We all need space, we all need time to ourselves.In Exodus3:15- Word of God:When the Lord saw that Moses was coming closer, he called him from the middle of the bush and said: "Moses, Moses", he answered, "Yes, here I am"God said, " Do not come any closer. Take off your sandals because you are standing on holy ground." Indeed, one little corner, a fraction of time that you allow yourself can do wonders to your being, to get in touch with your inner self and give expression to your faith. A space that allows you to reflect onyour life, on your day, on what tomorrow may bring. A small place where you can shed a tear, or breathe a sigh of relief, quieten a troubled mind or savor a few victories. Sacred Space It is a place to reflect and contemplate on what is important to you, to allow you to connect with your inner self , without interference, and in solitude.It could be as simple as a table top, a corner of the bedroom, a place just for you to enjoy few precious moments alone. No, it does not require a whole room, or many hours. Is there a small table top, a spot on the dresser, an isolated corner , an idle spot that collects clutter and dust? If you are on the road a lot, would you not want to carry something to evoke that feeling of connectedness? Joseph Campbell has this to say about sacred time, sacred space:You must have room or a certain hour of the day or so where you do not know what is in the morning paper. A place where you can simply experience and bring forth what you are or might be. At first you might think nothing is happening. But,if you have a sacred space and take advantage of it and use it everyday, something will happen.Where to begin? The word "sacred," evokes a feeling of something holy, serene,worthy of reverence.Any space can be a sacred space, prepare yourselfas you stand on Holy ground! The Elements Consider incorporating the elements when creating a sacred space.What thoughts , what feelings, what sensations do the four elements evoke in your being? Earth represents foundation, stability, feel the power and beauty of nature, of Mother Earth, the physical world. Clear the debris and clutter of the chosen area , thus removing negative energies that come with clutter and dirt. A small potted plant would be a nice touch. Water influences our conscious and sub-conscious forces that act on our lives. Water seeks to heal and nurture those around it. Consider a goblet or a crystal bowl filled with water. Remember to keep this fresh.This also gives a mild humidifying effect on the room. Or, a water fountain would be an asset for this element. Fire is the element that projects self-expression, creativity and enthusiasm. Without fire, there can be no radiance, no conviction, no passion nor expression. A glowing candle fulfills this element, a white candle represents all the colors, the color of the candle reflects the energy created in the sacred space. Green candle for luck and finance, red for passion and courage, and so forth. Air this element establishes itself in the realm of the intellect. It is through the process of thinking that ideas develop, it is a means of communication. Knowledge is gained and shared through this element. It enables one to reach out to the mental self.Enjoy the gentle breeze, winter, spring, summer or fall. Open a window to let some air in, if this is not possible, a mechanical fan would do.The elements is just one aspect of enhancing your sacred space. No matter how limited the space is, you can make room for an altar, incorporating the four elements with it. The surface need not be elaborate, it is the intention that counts. Others will require enough room to draw a sacred " circle", but this is not the intent of this article. Gathering Materials: Thorough planning to incorporate all the materials needed is important and worth the effort. A small table top covered with an elegant lace, add votive candles, a goblet filled with water and the bottom lined with stones or crystals, fresh flowers, a potted plant, a gentle breeze from a window or electric fan, a statue of your God |
