Ever since our human ancestors wandered as nomads, human beings have had attachments to certain places. We could look at essentially every culture and find some place that is different from the rest. For some it was the natural beauty that inspired them (think Grand Canyon). For others it was places that they had built (from Mayan temples to modern places of worship). Every civilization has some place that they would return to, that they would respect and teach their kin to treat the same. Even today, we all have somewhere that is a sort of “Sacred Space”.
“Sacred” denotes consecration, setting apart, regarded with reverence, or entitled to veneration. To have something sacred, is to have something that is respected, protected, and distinguished from others. It is in these places that people have unique experiences that forge deep memories and illicit admiration.
We can find these places all around us: churches, cathedrals, temples, and mosques. But sacred spaces are not limited to religious places. Museums, where we can learn about the world around us, instill curiosity to the young and old alike. Memorials can offer us a chance to look outside ourselves and empathize with those we are remembering. Fine concerts and performances allow us to experience timeless works of art that have inspired for years. There are sacred spaces all around, but there are three that I think are unique:
“The Great Outdoors”
Being outside of “civilization” offers all of us a chance to experience something pure. The sight of mountains towering above, and the calm, serene sounds of a stream, remind us just how small we really are. When we walk in the great outdoors, we surround ourselves with life. I know that for me, when I’m outdoors, life is much more clear and simple. I’m not much of a fisherman, but I still feel like Thoreau’s words apply:
“Many men go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not a fish they are after. ”
Home
There may be no more important place to revere, respect, and protect than the home. No matter where you live or who you live with, your home is where memories are made. Home should be a refuge, not a prison. My home is something that I frequently take for granted. I remember a brief time in my life when I chose to be homeless. It was not a situation that was forced on me; I wanted to experience it firsthand (kind of like Buddha’s desire to live lowly rather than as a prince). My life was very simple. I had very little to worry about, because every day was spontaneous and free. While I enjoyed the freedom that it offered, living without a home also left me lonely. I had plenty of friends, but no place that was my own. I felt like I was missing a piece of my identity.
Since then, my living situation has vastly improved (as in small, old student apartment). Although my simple husband brain doesn’t always appreciate (or notice) the little things my wife does to beautify our house and make it a home, I feel a connection to it. I have memories of playing with my children there. My daily routines and rituals happen there. My children’s minds are developing there. What better place to cherish and honor than where we live our lives?
Heart
Lastly, a place of critical importance for everyone is one that is more figurative. When someone shares a piece of their heart with us, they are allowing us to see something that is very sacred and special for them. Oftentimes, we can feel vulnerable when bearing our soul to someone or sharing something deeply personal. For those listening, it is not a time to judge, belittle, or ignore. When someone allows you to walk in their heart, you stand on sacred ground. Cherish the opportunity to learn more about them and listen with your head and heart. Because when we can see the side of someone that we’ve never seen, we will have made a new friend.