Written by Padua Academy Director of Advancement and Alumnae, Shana Rossi

“We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time.”

T.S. Eliot

I have been a seeker my entire life. I have “explored” almost every religion, philosophy, and belief system, seeking THE answer. It was exhausting and unfulfilling.

What a relief meditation has been for me. What a paradox of perfection: in surrender I find strength; in silence I hear answers; and in stillness I arrive.

Through meditation, I deepen my relationship with God. The practice of trusting brings me closer to God the Father. The practice of opening my heart brings me closer to Jesus. The practice of focusing on my breath brings me closer to the Holy Spirit.

Practice, practice, practice. Meditation is humbling, but my commitment is bearing fruit. Sometimes, I feel as though all I have achieved is a restful moment for my soul. Other times, by going within during meditation, my perceived solitude is graciously transformed into communion with all of creation. Both are a gift, and so is every variation between the two.

When I first began meditating, I felt selfish and indulgent for taking time away from my work or my family to meditate, but I have come to realize that the gifts of meditation are not limited to those who meditate. Rather, all are blessed by my practice, whether directly or indirectly.

Through meditation, I “cease from exploration” and focus on being rather than doing. I am reminded that I am inherently worthy — that I am God’s beloved child and so is everyone I encounter. We are all BEloved.

Be still and know that I am God.
Be still and know that I am.
Be still and know.
Be still.
Be.