It occurred to me today that within a Medieval Monastery, under the Benedictine Rule, a visitor would first be invited to stay for a few days in a guest house. Likewise, the author and teacher of contemplative practice, James Finley, states that when meeting a visitor at the door, do pause and ask if we can meet the needs that are arising? Can we share an interconnectedness?

In reflection today, I have been sitting with this same question, but as a metaphor for my thoughts. If I consider the visitor, as my thoughts, maybe I can apply this to heart centering prayer practice. How do I greet my thoughts? Are they invited? Do I have the capacity to welcome and sit with these thoughts? Or is this a time to keep the door closed?

Today I sit with the notion of thoughts as visitors. It is ok to be silent. It is ok to keep the door closed for a while.

““Every time you let go of a thought—even if another comes back—you’re practicing this deep motion of non-clinging, letting go, consenting, surrendering.” — Cynthia Bourgeault