The Restory Retreat Centre

   Being Still The Conversation As much as we love Barrowfield and our space, we are careful not to create the impression that you can only become quiet and be on a contemplative journey, in an isolated place, in nature, far from any human contact. To become still is possible for everyone, wherever you are. And it is not so much dependent on a quiet, peaceful environment (although it is definitely helpful), but it is more connected to a slower pace in general and an inner stillness. A disciplined daily practice, like meditation, is important in cultivating the latter. This past week we've been in Gauteng where we've experienced that firsthand. Also in the city garden of our friend, Elmarie. Different sounds, like traffic and power tools, can be heard in the background, but the experience of God is just as strong. In this week's blog post, we are saying the minimum. We want to encourage you to become quiet, wherever you are. If you want to use our videos in the process, you ...

Photograph by Liz Burroughs taken at a Restory Contemplative Photography retreat On a recent visit to the island Lamu off the coast of Kenya, our friend Lizzie bought herself a beautiful ethnic bracelet. She constantly wears it. It is her reminder of an approach to life she often came across while being on Lamu that is captured in the word “polepole”. In Swahili it means " slowly, gently, softly, quietly; be calm, take it quietly, don't excite yourself, never mind ". For instance, on stepping off the pier into a dau, one of the traditional wooden sailing boats, the guide would say, “polepole” – “slowly, gently, don’t excite yourself”. Now, whenever she has a hectic day  at the office, or she’s in a stressful meeting she would look down on her bracelet, gently reminding her, “polepole”. I don’t know whether Pablo Neruda was familiar with Lizzie’s Swahili word, but he would have loved the idea behind her bracelet: KEEPING QUIET Now we will count to twelve and ...

Photograph by George Angus Matilda’s nephew Liam has a friend Stephan. Although being only 9 now, the 2 of them has been a fountain of wisdom over the years. A few years ago, on starting playing rugby for the first time, Stephan became very frustrated. As soon as he got the ball, he was tackled. Quite upset he told Matilda’s brother in law: “Oom William, I just can’t get my speed!” I can relate with Stephan’s frustration. Ever since we came to Barrowfield there have been so many practicalities that needed attention that it has been difficult to get my speed writing and meditating. My mind is filled with pipe diameters, the solenoid on tractor starters, pressure pumps, skylights, ropes and rigging, tending to our fathers’ health and adjustment in the retirement village, setting up internet modems, bookshelves and all the rest. In the spare moments that I get to sit at the computer, I am so tired that it is difficult to keep my eyes focused and open. I have to be honest ...

An Introduction into the Silence this weekend! For everyone who initially wants to wade into the silence slowly, as a first time experience, guided days will be held during our usual Quiet days on 18 and 19 February 2012. These days will be structured and include a gentle walking meditation in a group and practical guidance on how to quiet down. Pottery clay and tools will be available to use  and a light lunch will be served.  Please click on  the About Quiet Days tab for more information.