Receptive silence can be experienced as a form of prayer – a spiritual connection in which it is possible to receive direct communication from that highest source, God within. When the spiritual nature is awakened a deepening awareness arises that we are not the physical body but spirit, that which activates the body and never dies. Those who have near death experiences often come back reporting that same life-changing awareness.
When we keep ourselves so busy on the external side of life, never allowing ourselves to go into that quiet center, we may attempt to fill the growing void with all kinds of distractions. The void is the silence, calling to us. It is the still, small voice within that is being drowned out. It nags us to be still and listen. In a materialistically oriented society the inner life, a prayer calling us, is not always given the value or significance it compels.
Yet there is one place where we can go to get calm, clear and centered. It is in the silence – alone, undistracted and undisturbed. Quiet time alone is not a luxury, but an opening for clarity and peace of mind. For the spiritual seeker it is a deep inner need.
Receptive silence allows us to enter into a state of mystical perception. The mystic is one who, through the practice of receptive silence, experiences a direct connection with God. The mystic pursuit is that of transforming the lower self into an integration of body, mind and spirit, guided by the higher self. The rewards of this journey allow us to develop a growing sense of serenity and freedom from anxiety and frustration. As we become more attuned with ourselves, we become more attuned with others.
Delving into this inner realm expands our understanding of the deep meaning and spiritual dimension of life. A catastrophic situation or condition has the potential to propel one toward this inner quest, as can a profound mystical or religious experience. Over time the mind becomes clearer, confidence grows and even health may be improved. This growing connection brings opportunities to further one’s strength, conviction and faith.
As Maitreya put it, “Everyone needs inner space where there is no one directing you, telling you where to go and what to do. You have been given that space so that the confusion and chaos around you will dissolve. You must never surrender that space to anyone, except your true self. Meditation is really a journey back to that space to find peace and happiness.”
In order to deeply connect in receptive silence or meditation, a daily practice is recommended, in which time for quiet is set aside. Not only do we get the benefit of becoming calm and more mentally alert and clear, but time devoted to inner practice recharges our energy and boosts our immune system. Some responses are immediate and apparent, while others develop gradually. Immediate improvements might be a reduction in stress and tension. This can be enhanced by a process of slow, deep breathing and conscious relaxation as we let go and enter the quiet. Overall feelings of peacefulness, energy and mental clarity are common. Betty Bethards says, “With daily meditations we can pack in twenty years’ worth of lessons in one year’s time.”
Meditation, synonymous in this context with prayer, is often thought of as a time of sitting quietly, even in specific postures. There are many ways to meditate and many ways to enter receptive silence. When you enter a true state of meditation, body awareness fades into the background until you lose awareness of it. Emotions become serenely still. The mind enters a peaceful state of stillness – waiting, but not pushing. This is the receptive silence that connects you with deep inner receiving. For those who aren’t comfortable with sitting meditations, the same state can be reached in walking meditations, preferably alone in the beauty of nature. Peace Pilgrim used to say, “From the beauty of nature you get your inspiration, from the silent receptiveness you get your meditation, from the walking you get not only exercise but breathing – all in one lovely experience. Wonderful insights come and it’s important to put those insights into practice.”
The purpose of receptive silence is to become open to higher receiving so that we can clarify and follow our unique path and purpose in life. It is to help us pay attention, even in the most extraordinary times. It is to bring us into a vibrant state of aliveness and connection with the divine within. It is the path that leads to inner peace.
Settle yourself in solitude, and you will come upon God in yourself. – Teresa of Avila
Cheryl Canfield, CCHT, 2024
Life & Wellness Counselor
Articles:
* July, 2024*Journey into Receptive Silence:
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*The World is Calling
* March, 2024
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