Practicing Stillness in My Prayer Chair
By Laurie Blefeld, author, spiritual director and retreat facilitator
Posted on
I don’t recall when I first began sitting in my prayer chair early each morning. With the demands of four young children, most likely my practice was born out of necessity. I needed quiet and peace before the many tasks of motherhood took precedence.
The chair is just an ordinary chair that over the years acquired meaning beyond just a piece of furniture. I don’t remember which child first named it the “prayer chair” or which one called the living room the “loving room” but somehow we all sensed the subtle field of grace that permeated the room.
All these years later, my prayer chair practice continues to anchor me to my faith. When I feel adrift, practicing stillness brings me into alignment with my truest self. Sitting quietly in prayer and meditation, I come face to face with what is unresolved. The journey takes me downward towards turbulence and doubt, towards pain, anguish and despair. It is there I discover that the Beloved is a whisper, not a storm, closer to me than my hands and feet.
Though we can pray anywhere, there is still a need for a place to go where we can close the door on our frenzied world. Creating sacred space is an intentional effort for a place to deepen our relationship with God. Dailiness and routine offer constancy. Spiritual practice awakens us to the sacredness in everything and everyone. Conscious awareness is the conduit through which the many faces of grace flow into our lives. Though we cannot make grace happen, we can ready ourselves for receptivity. Practicing emptying and quiet waiting provides a way to take root in God.
Consider creating a sacred space in your home. Find a place that feels peaceful. Next to a chair place a small table for an altar. Gather a few meaningful things to arrange on your altar. A space becomes sacred when it reflects who we are and what we love. Begin by sitting quietly for a few minutes each morning or evening. Focus on the rhythm of your breath. When your mind wanders, bring your attention back to your breath. Each time you return your focus to your breath is another opportunity to turn towards God. Make an intention to sit each day.
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Writer, spiritual director and retreat facilitator Laurie Blefeld offers spiritual counseling to incarcerated women and facilitates groups at York Correctional Institute in Niantic, Connecticut. This blog post is adapted from her recently published book, Moments of Grace with permission. On Saturday, October 27, Laurie will be presenting a one-day program at Mercy by the Sea entitled “Creating Space for Grace: Intention, Reflection, Receptivity.” Although the program is fully subscribed, you can call Rosemary Jones at 203.245.0401, ext. 114, to be put on a waiting list.
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