In a world that often feels chaotic and fast-paced, meditation practice stands as a beacon of peace and self-knlowledge. In this conversation, we dive deep into the transformative journey of meditation with Stefan Reynolds, who shares his insights and experiences, illustrating how meditation can serve as a path to inner peace and understanding. He will lead the retreat Deepening Meditation – Launching Out (12-17 May in Bonnevaux).
The Early Days of Meditation
Stefan’s journey began at the age of 19 when he traveled to India and met the Benedictine monk, Bede Griffiths. This pivotal meeting introduced him to meditation and the teachings of John Main, which have profoundly shaped his spiritual path. Reflecting on his early experiences, Stefan notes that even before his trip to India, he felt a calling toward meditation, a feeling that has only intensified over the years. He describes how meditation became an essential part of his daily routine, stating, “If I miss the meditation, I feel something is missing in the day.”
Bonnevaux, peace and tranquility.
Stefan emphasizes the importance of location and speaks fondly of Bonnevaux retreat centre. He describes it as a place of homecoming, peace, and tranquility, allowing participants to let go of their worries. The beauty of the surroundings and the sense of community create an environment that nurtures deep meditation. Stefan explains, “You can enjoy the beauty because it is a very beautiful location, the countryside, the buildings, and the community.”
Exploring Mysticism
A significant part of Stefan’s retreats involves exploring the writings of mystics such as Teresa of Avila and John Main. One of his favorite sayings from Teresa is, “All the way to heaven is heaven,” highlighting the importance of enjoying the journey rather than viewing it as a path of suffering. He draws parallels between these teachings and the essence of meditation, suggesting that the act of meditating itself is a taste of heaven, a moment of coming home.
John Main’s Teachings
Stefan references John Main’s metaphor of the ocean to describe the depth of the meditation experience. He explains, “By stillness in the spirit, we move in the ocean of God.” This profound idea suggests that through stillness, we can discover momentum and direction in our spiritual journeys. Meditation is likened to learning how to swim; it requires trust and the willingness to let go. Stefan explains, “Sometimes the best way of learning to swim is just to jump in out of our depths.”
