The Charleston Observer » Spiritual

Silent and Still

TCO — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 02:04:52 +0000

A simple stone bench in a private Charleston garden. Just waiting for someone to approach gently, sit quietly, and do nothing but take in a moment of existence. Even from the street, gazing at this scene through the garden fence, a passerby can realize that there is a quiet place within where nothing touches you. No event. No person. No thought or feeling or worry. Nothing at all.

In that inner territory of solace, you rediscover that you have everything you need, which is nothing. Simple being, presence, awareness—whatever you want to call it. The only true sanctuary. The only real possession. The only guaranteed security. The utmost accomplishment of enduring worth. Always near at hand. •

A Spiritual Retreat in Myrtle Beach

TCO — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 23:52:06 +0000

For many South Carolinians, the initials M.B. bring to mind Myrtle Beach. But for a dedicated few, they mean Meher Baba, the Indian spiritual teacher who, as it happens, developed a spiritual retreat in Myrtle Beach.

This is not a tourist spot. Although open to visitors, it is a private retreat intended for those sincerely interested in Meher Baba, his teaching, and their own inner quest.

Located between South and North Myrtle Beach, the Meher Center comprises 500 beachfront acres that have remain unspoiled by commercial development. It is a serene complex of virgin forest, fresh water lakes, and simple cabins within walking distance to the beach. An idyllic setting for meditation, quiet, and seclusion from daily life.

Baba devotees from around the world, especially along the eastern seaboard, visit here frequently to volunteer their time and labor, to spend time with each other, and, above all, to renew themselves in silence.

Visitors stay in small cabins and share two communal kitchens. Time is typically spent walking trails on the property, reading in the center library, attending talks and videos about Meher Baba, enjoying the beach, and meeting other guests. The atmosphere is contemplative, friendly, and supportive.

Meher Baba was born in India in 1894. He established a colony called Meherabad intended for spiritual training, where there was also a free hospital and dispensary and shelters for the poor. He taught his disciples—who were of different castes and creeds—moral discipline, love for God, spiritual understanding, and selfless service.

In 1925, Meher Baba went into silence which he maintained until his death in 1969. For 44 years, he dictated his spiritual discourses and messages on an alphabet board, and eventually communicated with just hand gestures. He traveled to America six times, beginning in 1931. His last visit was in 1958.

Meher Baba

One of his most pragmatic sayings is, “Don’t worry, be happy, make efforts” (the last two words of which are often not quoted).

Learn more about the Meher Center.

Learn more about the history of Meher Baba’s life.

Learn more about Meher Baba’s teaching.

Monks in Moncks Corner

TCO — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 05:00:28 +0000

Beautifully situated on the banks of the Cooper River on what was originally Native American hunting ground, Mepkin Abbey has been home to Trappist monks since 1949.

View along the Cooper River

The original Mepkin Plantation was purchased in 1936 by Henry and Clare Booth Luce who later donated much of the property to the Abbey of Gethsemani (in Kentucky) for the purpose of establishing a monastic community in South Carolina. Mepkin Abbey was founded 13 years later, in 1949.

According to their web site, the monks are Roman Catholic monks who belong to the worldwide Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance. They are part of a tradition that was formalized in the sixth century by St. Benedict of Nursia, Italy. The Cistercians renewed their tradition at the Norman Abbey of La Trappe in the mid 17th century, thereafter being popularly known as “Trappist” monks.

Entrance to the Mepkin Garden

Soon after the Luces bought the property in 1936, Mrs. Luce commissioned landscape architect Loutrell Briggs to create the Mepkin Gardens which were renovated in 1988 by Nancy Bryan Luce, the wife of Henry Luce III. This is now perhaps the most beautiful and meditative part of the monastery grounds. And, yes, you can picnic here.

Detail of Christ’s hand

As you wander the grounds—and you can leisurely explore most of the outdoor areas—you will see some pleasant statuary. One of the nicest is a slightly larger than life-size sculpture of Christ and the disciple John. Their hands in particular are sensitively done.

Elsewhere you’ll find grand oaks, palmettos, ponds (watch out for alligators, they say), and large lawns. You want to just sprawl on the grass, look up at the moss-adorned trees, and savor the pastoral quietude.

If you (men and women) are interested in visiting for more than an afternoon or day, you can sign up as a ‘retreatant’ and stay in one of the guest cabins. Men (only) who want to learn about possibly becoming monks can stay for 30 days or more to live, work, and pray with the resident monks.

Formerly famous for their fresh eggs, the monks now grow and sell mushrooms. To learn more, click the logo below.

Mepkin Abbey
Off Hwy 402 (near Moncks Corner)
Get directions (843) 761 8509