Listening Point

One of the quiet lessons of creating this sanctuary has been learning that not everything needs to happen as quickly as it can.

As I looked toward opening the sanctuary with an open house on the eve of the summer solstice, I began to notice something different asking for my attention.

Rather than hurrying toward an opening, I sensed an invitation to slow down, listen more deeply, and trust what was unfolding.

That listening changed everything.

In mid-June, I gathered in the park for a morning of rest and presence. It became a beautiful reminder of why this work matters. Sometimes the smallest gatherings create the greatest spaciousness.

A few days later, I spent a quiet day in the sanctuary, honoring my grandmother's birthday. Arranging blankets. Moving objects until they felt at home. Sitting quietly. Simply being with the space.

On the eve of the summer solstice, two dear friends joined me to mark this threshold. Their words of encouragement and their presence reminded me that while so much of this journey has been one of quiet listening, it has also been shaped by accompaniment.

During our time together, I shared the story of Listening Point, the writing retreat of conservationist and author Sigurd Olson on Burntside Lake in northern Minnesota. It was there, on a rocky point overlooking the lake that he called Listening Point, that Olson would sit, reflect, and write. His words have accompanied me for many years. Looking back, I think they were pointing me toward something I would spend many years seeking.

He wrote,

“I named this place Listening Point because only when one comes to listen, only when one is aware and still, can things be seen and heard.  Everyone has a listening point somewhere. It does not have to be in the north or close to the wilderness, but someplace of quiet where the universe can be contemplated with awe.”

As I shared those words, something settled into place.

My deepest hope is that Anam Cara Sanctuary might become a listening point.

A place of quiet.

A place to pause.

A place to listen.

A place where we can return to ourselves and to what matters most.

From that place of clarity, August became the right time to open the doors.

I wanted to give this sanctuary—and myself—a little more time to settle into what was emerging.

I'm so grateful I did.

The sanctuary has continued to unfold. The vision feels clearer. The rhythms are finding their own shape.

I'm grateful I listened.

And I'm looking forward to welcoming you.

You're Invited

Anam Cara Sanctuary Open House

Saturday, August 8th
Drop in anytime between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Come explore the sanctuary, share a cup of tea, enjoy a few simple seasonal treats, and learn about the pathways to practice that will begin this autumn.

Whether you stay for a few minutes or linger awhile, I'd be honored to welcome you.

Warmly,

Cara