The End of an Era
We’ve all been processing the fact that the yoga studio is closing next week, not quite willing to give up this institution that’s become a catalyst for like-minded people of all ages.
It also served as a space for those of us who came to meditate on Monday and Friday mornings. Despite the garbage trucks, it was usually quite peaceful; just the perfect way to start one’s day sitting on blankets arranged in a circle around a candle. The group had been in existence since 1998.
I suggested that we have a farewell sit, hoping to attract as many people as possible who had experienced this space in the early mornings. I even offered herbal tea and homemade lemon bars.
As it turned out, five people showed up to sit today. Instead of the anchor inviting the bell to start the sit, we passed it from person to person, letting each one have a voice.
After a half hour sit and a walking meditation, we shared food and drink and words, none of which usually are on the meditation menu. It’s the silence that we come for, but every now and then we must remind ourselves about the importance of being a community.
We came up with a plan for moving elsewhere, but we will indeed miss the space provided by the yoga studio.
posted by Barbara at 10:26 AM
5 Comments:
I'm really sorry to read that you're losing a place that's been a part of your journey. I hope you find someplace that means as much.
Kristin -- Fortunately it's just space we are losing. The commitment of the group is in tact and that's all that matters. Actually when your eyes are closed in meditation, the space is not important at all if the temperature is comfortable!
The yoga studio (hopefully) will resurface in January in space across the street from Yes! near Pennsylvania and 6th SE.
transitions are .... endings in and of themselves. and i think that, even if this is just a transition from one place to another, the fact that you took the time to acknowledge and process and embrace change was wonderful.
if only we did more of that in our culture - we'd be less stressed out; less isolated; and feel that sense of belonging each of us strive to feel on a daily basis.
this was lovely!
(as was the piece you wrote about Yom Kippur below it)
xxx
rdm
seems like a nice send off and farewell to this space. I am happy that you have made arrangements for a new space to meditate with one another. Onwards and upwards.
RDM -- You are so correct that any change is a transition. Hopefully we will be able to keep this group going elsewhere!
Gary -- Yes, onwards and upwards indeed!
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