I was surprised, when Roz came to pick me up yesterday. After driving all the way from Wilmington, NC, she wanted to drive straight through to Syracuse and we did. What a woman. Great trip. We seemed to be in Syracuse before I knew it. The man next door to Joan, an old Marine veteran, was standing outside, as we were putting my stuff in the car. I asked him if he new a shortcut from Germantown to the Baltimore Beltway and on to 83 north. He did. He told us to take Father Hurley Blvd. until it turned into 27, through Damascus and onto 70 east. We avoided all that traffic and were on 83 in no time. Talk about the right man at the right place at the right time.
I was thinking about you ever since I got a CD from Kathy and Don. It’s from a place in southern France called Taize. I had heard about this place years ago. It’s a spiritual center and people from all over go there to work and go on retreat.
I listened to the first piece and knew right away that it was not only a beautifully performed music, but really a meditation. You’d have to hear it to know what I’m saying. Roz and I played it on the way up and she said it allowed for no thought. I had the same experience and have listened to it several times and experienced the same thing.
I know that you talked about your difficulty in meditating and this might be an answer. It’s a little over ten minutes on the first work, enough time to settle one into a place, which spiritual directors say we should be. Silence within. Thomas Merton said a long time ago that there are many ways we can meditate and listening to music is one. This definitely is such a one.
I know that Sara sent me a CD album on instant messaging, but I’m not sure how she did it, but if it’s possible, I could send you this. If you would like me to do this, tell me what to do and I’ll do it.
Anyway, it’s good to be back in my own bed and in familiar surroundings.
How can I thank you for all you did for me this past trip? I can’t tell you how much I appreciated the opportunity to spend some time with you and for all you gave me. Thank you. Again, thank Jo too. Thank you for affording me the opportunity to meet Sara. It was great.
Ned
always stay connected to friends.