The question I pose is based upon Lane's second axiom for sacred place which asserts sacred place is ordinary place, ritually made extraordinary. He describes a clearing in the woods which he comes upon and the ritual silence which he experiences there. Can an ordinary place only experienced by a single individual be sacred?
I believe that this can be true. If that individual experiences true moment of peace, tranquility, and absolute clarity of mind, then they have experienced a sacred place. The location can be of meager local, but the experience or ritual of the individual has or does at that location enables the place to be transformed from ordinary to sacred. I live in Williamsburg, Va and a location I regularly go to on the James River is a little patch of beach far from the every day commotion. Whenever, I get away and am able to arrive on that beach I often have incredible moments of just pure clarity and peace. This place is sacred to myself in offering relief, inspiration and the pure enjoyment of life with nature and a higher power. I consider this place sacred although I may one of only a few to experience it.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
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