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Special Treat ??“ From Maria Doherty

Aug 27, 2005? 

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Sanctuary of the Soul

Maria Doherty

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The dark green branches of the Sacred Ewe trees form gentle arches through which I see the waterfall cascading down into the deep pool hollowed out of the? rock by its force.

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I watch as the pool? spills over and the stream glides its way across the stones and pebbles. In some places the bed narrows and the water grows impatient, forcing its way through, its surface chattering? noisily as it froths and fusses. In some places, the water's way is easy, a gentle meander through time worn channels, soundless, its motion scarcely visible.

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The sun shimmers through the canopy of trees in places where the encompassing woods are not so dense. Green-gold sparkles on the water's surface as though dancing in delicate patterns of sheer delight. This is a magical place.

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I sit in the long waving grasses that fringe the edges, feeling my body and spirit merge with the uniquely? peaceful essence of this beloved space. I become part of the sound of the falling, flowing water and the many strands of bird song lull me into a deeply meditative state.

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A woman takes shape in front of me, wandering along the long curves of the stream, touching plants and trees as she goes, as though searching for something elusive but tactile. She is very old but stands tall, flowing as gracefully as the water. I recognise her; she is an ancient me and she seeks to fill her soul with all the wonderful, miraculous memories of this place. She is a smile walking, a phantom of the infinite pleasure of this soul sanctuary, the garden of my soul.

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Maria doherty

mariadoherty@blueyonder.co.uk