Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Getting Back to Fire

Yesterday afternoon I incorporated a small candle in my meditation session. I used it for focus, and it gave me much more. Not only was I able to release extraneous thoughts, I marveled at how even a little tealight could bring out the warm colors of my living room.

Building on that, Dave and I finished our recent quest for a fire bowl last night. Found what we were looking for: a simple, open bowl about two feet across. While he put it together, I took the Sawzall to some dead limbs that fell in our yard a couple weeks ago. Dave found a bit of newspaper. I built a solid, tiered fire.

And we sat.

For an hour, maybe? Just watching. It had the strange, dual effect of both clearing my head and stimulating focused thought. It was a brain-deep relief to look at non-electric light. I imagine natural flame will become a regular part of my daily meditative and creative processes.

Do you use flame for health or creative pursuits?

2 ate pie:

Martha Brockenbrough said...

I've been lighting candles lately as I write. I think there's something about the colder days and darker skies that makes me seek a little extra light.

nomadshan said...

I love knowing those days are coming now. Hot tea, candle, maybe some clouds and rain outside. Perfect for writing.