“Cleaning and cleansing through movement is the pattern of earth’s nomadic peoples. They do not remain long in one place for many reasons, but chief of these is that the land on which they have rested becomes “worn out”. The act of moving on, then, is for them an act of renewal and care, allowing the earth to rest and recover from their occupation.
The spring and autumn cleaning of the house that many people favour is but one side of an orderly life. The visible clutter in our homes reflects a corresponding clutter in our internal lives. The wise lesson of nomadic peoples is to leave little trace of our passage upon the earth, to leave no mark that mars the wider world. By cleaning up after ourselves, we help life the impress of our presence upon the earth.
With attention and intention, clean at least one room of your house this week. As you restore cleanliness and order, be aware of the corresponding spaciousness within yourself, so that your autumn cleaning becomes meditation in itself.”
Caitlin Matthews
Chorlton Unitarians 