Almost unbelievably Summer is here,and in Malta that means that temperatures soar! Our small apartment is simple light and uncluttered, and we keep it as cool as possible.
I continue with The Oasis News for those of you who take an interest in this beautiful, prophetic vision of hope.As you know it is also very practical, laying out guidelines for a simple, holistic life-style that is able to help now and in the future.
Simplicity is the key note, but that doesn't mean not to live fully. Life should be entered into with dynamism, zest and full enjoyment, appreciating nature in all its abundance and gifts, using one's own gifts creatively and imaginatively, balancing everything between a pattern of stillness and activity.
The spiritual dimension ofcourse is the core of the vision, concentrating on that point of stillness and balance from where the energy for life and living is centred, can be drawn upon, and is then able to move out into a sphere of action and activity.It is the real source of our energy.
This picture above is the view we have over the chapel roof, a perfect spot for early morning and late evening meditation.
The basic domesticity that Mary advocates, without making a fetish of it, is not a problem here. It is a clean sweep through,-- balcony, sitting area, kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. That's it and it suits us fine!
Wholesome nutrition,well that's more difficult in terms of a self sufficiency. Fortunately we can use the roof above us to grow a simple variety of herbs and salad leaves. We also had a very good crop of delicious strawberries,---they seemed to go on and on. It is good too to be able to use the nearby organic farm, as they keep us supplied with eggs , fruit and veg. in season. Herbs and wholefoods are important as a basic part of the diet.We find that Indigo Herbs is an excellent supplier:-
http://www.indigo-herbs.co.uk/
.Then ofcourse there is Lina's bread! We can always guarantee wholesome nutrition here, and to this, add that Italian flair that is quite unique.
Keeping in line with The Oasis Way is not difficult in terms of exercise. Two 45 minutes walk,dancing,-a regular daily regime for me,,(thank goodness we are not overlooked!)and hopefully this year a little swimming.
Recreation time is simple and often merges with the other spheres.Joe likes his music, I enjoy painting and we both enjoy reading and growing herbs etc. It"s lovely to share a meal or drinks with friends, but really this is central to The Oasis way of Life, -this community - style relationship of "loving and living,----caring and sharing.'
It's a simple philosophy, this 'loving and living.' But simple doesn't necessarily mean easy!Sometimes it seems that it is the hardest thing. It's fine if everything in Life is going smoothly, people around are pleasant and generous, and good spirits and positive benevolent attitudes prevail. The problem arises when people are not so pleasant, infact seem downright selfish , mean and arrogant; the positive atmosphere begins to diminish and good spirits fly out the window so to speak! This is where we need extra help!
Work for me has to integrate with The Oasis philosophy,and so involves the odd painting commission, and sessions of Relaxation/Meditation therapy for individuals or groups.The C.D.s offer a follow up programme or can be used alone.
Then ofcourse there is the Centre. That building shown to me over twenty years ago as an integral part of The Oasis vision.By coincidence, or not by coincidence, our apartment now is next door to it.Sadly, it has fallen into a very neglected state, and the once simple, beautiful, productive garden lies overgrown and desolate. -----Looking at it now, it is as if it is waiting------.
This is the simple life style that we continue to try to live, in line with the vision. Ofcourse it is a prophetic vision too,and I wait hopefully for its promise of a beautiful protective development where a small community of people live together peacefully happily and freely.---It will happen at the right time, when God is ready, and the right people are ready.
Maureen.
1 comment:
Well the 13th June blog was very comprehensive - a real re-affirmation; I shall have to reread and reread. Thank you.
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