I had dream, I think. In it I was in the presence of a spiritual master I once knew. He had long since left the planet, I think. He’s gone forever, I think. I think I will never see him again.
In this dream no words were exchanged between us. It was clear as day to me that no words were needed but this was never “said”. He assured me this was necessary and ok. Yet, sustained eye contact held us together.
In his lap he held a wooden box. Somehow, I understood, that in it were a collection of spiritual things from his long life of 90 plus years. Was I dreaming or was this in fact not a dream but as real as anything is real?
The Day
Later, reassuring words from the poet William Stafford appeared.
Today
The ordinary miracles begin. Somewhere a signal arrives: “Now,” and the rays come down. A tomorrow has come. Open your hands, lift them: morning rings all the doorbells; porches are cells for prayer. Religion has touched your throat. Not the same now, you could close your eyes and go on full of light.
And it is already begun, the chord that will shiver glass, the song full of time bending above us. Outside, a sign: a bird intervenes; the wings tell the air, “Be warm.” No one is out there, but a giant has passed through town, widening streets, touching the ground, shouldering away the stars.
About Ronald L. Barnett
Welcome to Hey World - a home for my writings, much of it autobiographically-inspired. My hope is that they entertain, educate, and inspire. I’m simpatico with Enid Sinclair who told Wednesday Addams, ‘’I write in my voice. It’s my truth!” I hope you enjoy them. And if you subscribe and have comments, I’d love to hear from you.
I received the Doctorate in Psychology (concentration in human cognition and learning) and after 5 years working as a community-based mental health clinician, I worked in medical research with the National Institutes of Health for the remainder of my career.
I served Contemplative Outreach, Ltd. (CO) as a teacher, group facilitator, retreat leader, Chapter Coordinator, Board Member and Trustee and taught with The Miksang Institute for Contemplative Photography.
As of 2020 I retired, hosted the podcast All Things Contemplative, and still volunteer with CO. I also facilitate Charis Circles with the Charis Foundation for the New Monasticism and Interspirituality - and enjoy information technologies, photography, nature, swimming, biking, and kayaking.
