Mysticism and the Arts through the Lens of Various Spiritual Traditions

“To be a mystic is simply to participate here and now in that real and eternal life; in the fullest deepest sense which is possible. It is to share, freely and consciously, in the joyous travail of the Universe; its mighty onward sweep through pain and glory towards its home in God.” – Eveyln Underhill

In Meghan Don’s course, Mysticism and the Inspirational Arts, students at Ananda College of Living Wisdom have been studying the mystics from different traditions – including Gnostic, Celtic, and Sufi. Says Meghan, “we have then taken these wisdoms and participated in them, that is, through exercises using the body as a sacred instrument, we have entered into sound and movement exploration. Through these exercises the students have come to a much deeper appreciation and awareness of the teachings. They have also been aware of their practical application in their everyday lives, such as releasing self-consciousness, becoming more confident to put their voice forward, trusting in their own self, and developing deep listening and compassion in community.”

During the winter semester college students are creating a multi-media meditation experience for all to enter into, called The Last Song of St. Francis: A Journey Into Love. This is based on the readings and writings of St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi, and will incorporate the artwork and photographic images of the students, prayers and poems, mystic stories, dance and sacred chant.

Meghan Don, a member of the faculty at Ananda College of Living Wisdom, is an Award-winning author and has written two books on the mystics; “Sacred Companions Sacred Community: Reflections with Clare of Assisi”, and “Falling Into the Arms of God: Meditations with Teresa of Avila”. Meghan has taught at Prescott College for the Liberal Arts and Environment, Omega and Esalen Institutes, and leads pilgrimages to Assisi and other sacred sites in Europe.


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