One of the realities of college life is that there are a lot of words... classes, tutorials and, of course, worship. Sometimes we get worded-out, or at least I do. Sometimes what I need is not more words but more silence, more slowing down (yes, really), more stillness...
On Tuesday I was loosely overseeing our 'Worship for Well-being' along with two other tutors, which was - loosely, very loosely - linked to the lectionary readings for the Transfiguration.
One tutor facilitated a space for singing songs from the world church...
One tutor facilitated a mindful walk...
I facilitated a space for mindful colouring/crafting and slow stitching...
Slow stitching, like other mindful practices is less about what you create and more about slowing down - something that sewing can facilitate - and allowing our mind to work quietly, going whither it will, opening itself to the whisper of God, or simply emptying itself of clutter.
The photo shows what I achieved, partly on a train ride, partly at college - it's about an hour's worth of slow stitching/sewing, an act of devotion or prayer, a gift to self of time and space to be slower and silenter and stiller (if there such words exist). And, of course, I have my little piece of craft to keep, to remind myself of whatever it may remind me of... a place, a time, a purpose, a prayer.
It all seemed to be well received - to give each of us some time and space to be refreshed, renewed, restored by reconnecting with our delight in nature, in music or in craft/art.
As we move into half term, I hope that staff and students will find more spaces and places to focus on their well-being.
