Sit Spots with Gratitude

My delay in this blog reflection is an example of what focus can do.    Hunter and I decided to create “sit spots” that we can always go …. to be still … throughout our homestead of Colinas de la Paz.  As this project expanded and we saw the beauty in so many spots, our collection has grown to 18 places to sit and feel the stillness inside.  Some with views of sunsets, ocean, and islands …. others deep in the belly of the forest listening to the sound of moving water.  Places to see a tiny insect or a quiet monkey.  All are near trees and soil, sky and stars. A place to rest.

The actual process was a journey itself.  Especially when Hunter’s diligence in looking for perfect driftwood planks on our beach walks provided so many artistic seats.  The design, placement, leveling all required present moment appreciation.  Attention to the detail of Nature. Additionally,  a surprise visit from a Panamanian Primate Conservation NGO gave us the added purpose  of monkey research observation spots for visiting students.

Our places of stillness vary ….. from blended into the hillside as almost invisible ….. to an open “come sit on me” call.  They are deep in the quebrada and high on the colina.

Blended into the hillside, almost invisible

Come sit on me …. sit spot

Sitting in the food forest looking at the Pacific

Sit spots from creek bed to hill top

This project gave us a deep introspection towards going to Nature to sit …. not walk or hike or explore. Too often, for us all, there is an obstacle of time, fatigue, injury, convenience, safety, unknowns.  We discount the value of just being still surrounded by Nature’s embrace.

Herbs and Rest …. and a place to count the monkeys as they move through the corridor

Walk through the banana guild to a bench waiting for you

And there you will see a sunset

Or a Capuchin watching you

A sit spot looking down into the ravine where morning birds gather

And perhaps a creature resting as well

Sit facing a waterfall and sink into all your senses

We wanted a place for more than one or two to gather.  So a circle was created.  A place in Nature to use a talking stick, create an altar of thanks and just be with each other.

Our sits spots are ready.  So now, may I say on this Thanksgiving day …. come take a Nature Sit with me !

Thank you for visiting.

With gratitude,

Linda Taylor

All pictures and content © Linda Taylor