Touching the Sacred
Photo Credit: Samuel Berner
When we hear the word sacred, different images or scenarios may come up in our minds. Depending on our conditioning, we might think of an ancient temple high in the mountains, an exquisitely silent medieval cathedral, or the sound of a bell at a monastery gate. The attention goes toward the sacred object and sanctifies it. Yet, what is sacred is not tied up with the object being known, but the lived, in-the-moment experience that one has when in relationship with such objects.
To be too oriented towards the sacred object keeps the attention from where it would be more useful-–with the experience of our own Citta (heart/mind). It’s kind of like when we fall in love with someone. When we say, “I’m in love with such and such a person,” our attention is very much oriented toward that person–so much so, that we may miss the “I’m IN love” part.
In the same way, it’s not the temple or the cathedral or the monastery that is sacred. It’s the quality of Citta that is present in those moments when… when what? When we feel connected to something more than ourselves for just a moment, when the heart lifts and fear drops away. The experience most likely will differ from person to person. The point is that it is a palpable experience that we can be mindful of. Through mindfulness, it then strengthens. This is Wise Effort. The more we learn to fully inhabit these moments, the more we notice them. It’s an organic process that leads to greater faith and trust in the boundless potential of the Citta.
The next time you notice your heart lift up, widen–whatever best describes your experience–notice that fully and hang out there. It will pass, so don’t cling, but intentionally be there for as long as the experience lasts. Your connection with it will strengthen its transformative power, and also it will just feel lovely. Lastly, remember this does not have to be some big thing. Again, it’s not the object, but the experience. Seeing a plant grow up through a crack in the concrete could give rise to joy and reverence for life. Fold this simple awareness into your mindfulness practice and be on the lookout for the sacred moments in your everyday life.