This January 15 - February 23, 2011 the Winter Feast for the Soul will be held. I just learned about this event myself from a cousin. I went to their website to learn more about it. According to their website, their Longer-term Vision is “We hold a vision that includes all spiritual traditions and organizations in a synchronized schedule for their winter practice periods. Through this collaboration we will all become part of a shared dream for a new consciousness and peace on our planet.”
As I read the above, I wondered what the heck did this mean? So I dug a little more into their website. According to their website, for 40 days each participant will “set aside 40 minutes each day to still and focus the mind and to dedicate that time to communion with Spirit.”
This event is not restricted to meditation. While many will use meditation, contemplative prayer, reading sacred texts, yoga, journaling or expressive arts are other forms that the participants will use.
Some history - this event started in 2008 with 150 people and has grown to over 20,000 in three years with participants from over 29 countries. It was inspired by the following poem:
“What nine months does for the embryo
Forty early mornings
Will do for your growing awareness.”
Forty early mornings
Will do for your growing awareness.”
~ Jelaluddin Rumi
I’m still learning more about the event and will share with you as I do. It sounds like it should be very interesting and I signed up to participate.
I believe this is my last blog for my class requirements. Please continue checking back for future blogs as this is just the beginning. I will delve more into so many aspects of my spiritual path that I am on. It’s exciting to discover my path and I can’t wait to see what’s around the corner.
YOU GO GIRL! I will be sitting right there with you, though here in Oregon. I call it my dry retreat. I like wine but abstain from any alcohol during those 4o days (part of my added commitment).
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