The Gift of a Quiet Day of Refuge at Meher Mount
SUMMER SOLSTICE when Meher Mount is enshrouded in the clouds. (Photo: Kristina Somma, June 20, 2020)
By Cassandra Bramucci
I cannot tell you how many times I have been to Meher Mount since my first visit in the spring of 2017, but I can tell you this: every visit has been unique.
Most recently, I had the good fortune to be asked to fill in as “caretaker-for- the-day” on June 18, 2020.
A Gift to Be in the Refuge of Meher Mount
Having done some caretaking at Meher Mount in the past, I jumped at the chance to cover for a day. After a hectic few weeks, it was a gift to be able to spend a quiet day in the spiritual refuge of Meher Mount.
When I arrived at 11:00 a.m., the shroud of mist that often covers Sulphur Mountain this time of year had nearly burned off. The air was cool and welcoming.
A Feeling of Being Embraced, Welcomed
I had barely arrived when already the familiar sights and sounds pulled me into a feeling of being taken in, embraced, welcomed. A stillness settled in around me as I breathed in the sense of loving care that emanated all around me.
The local raven pair were encouraging this year’s fledglings to go out and make their own way in the world while the avian youngsters were acting like typical teenagers. Out and back, out and back, while ever protesting from the distance.
RAVENS in a protracted conversation in front of the pond at Meher Mount. (Photo: Cassandra Bramucci, 2017)
It was just me and the ever present drama of nature. The Juncos and Goldfinches, Spotted Towhees and House Finches — all jostling for “spa time” at the fountain in the middle of the driveway.
WATCH the birds playing around the pond at Meher Mount. (Video: Cassandra Bramucci, June 2020)
As always, it was mesmerizing. Familiar and yet always renewed. Renewing and deeply satisfying.
What more could one ask for?
What more could one ask for?
As I meandered over to Baba’s Walkway, running my hand along the golden cord that protects it in its repose, I suddenly felt a loving presence. A wisp of blue cloth, an imagined hand lifted to point the way. The proud tour guide leading me around back to see the recently planted flowers.
If Meher Mount has taught me anything, it is this: Avatar Meher Baba is ever-present to those who seek Him, and sooner or later, we all find that special place where He always awaits.
A BLUE COAT, an uplifted hand — Avatar Meher Baba at Meher Mount on August 2, 1956. Agnes Baron’s expression describes her joy in being with Meher Baba. (Photo: Darwin Shaw, Meher Nazar Publications)