Here's a stimulating article on the BBC site in its News Magazine section.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-16649957
To some extent monasticism started as a flight from the degradation, distraction and noise of the cities, to the wilderness and silence of the deserts. I disagree with the writer's conclusion that "silence is a condition so rare that it is likely to cause unease rather than bring solace, but agree that "silence is a condition so rare." IMHO the unease is the initial encounter with the real 'you' when the noise is switched off. This needs to be wrestled with and accommodation reached before any type of solace kicks in. All the best spiritual writers and guides will resonate with that. John of the Cross? Julian of Norwich? Et al? I think noise is more of a 'spiritual' question than an environmental one. What do you think?
4 comments:
Hi Brian,
I suffer from tinnitus as you know and so I will never know silence again and I miss it very much. It would be something I welcome, not be frightened of.
Any news on the Occupy London front?
Hope you are keeping well,
Blessings and prayers,
Ann:)
Thanks Ann.Yes, that must be very distressing for you.
Friday 4th January is the date for their eviction.
best wishes
Brian
Brian, I can't help seeing the connection to one of the Thoughts I wrote when in Formation. If your interested take a look:
http://cliftondiaconalformation.blogspot.com/2010/11/silence.html
God Bless,
J
Thanks Deacon John -I'll check it out.
Bran
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