Holding the Center
From my first experience of Gathering some 18 years ago I have noticed a gradual internal transformation in what calls and sustains me there. When I first attended I was relatively new to Quakerism but a committed contra dancer and Sacred Harp singer, and I was delighted to find opportunities to exercise those passions at Gathering. More importantly, my spiritual hunger was nourished by an amazing workshop with Bill Kreidler on praying with Julian of Norwich and Theresa of Avila.
In the years following that first experience I continued to dance and sing and to find sustenance in my workshops. However, what nurtures me most now is the deep connection I find with several companions with whom I share my spiritual journey. To spend an hour or so sitting on the lawn under a tree with one or two of these longtime F/friends, focusing on how the Spirit has dealt with us during the year, is a delicious treat. I have also become more involved in the work of FGC and thus find myself attending more meetings during the Gathering. However, unlike my work life, such meetings usually provide spiritual nurture and connection with these same F/friends.
This past year I offered a workshop for the first time, and that experience has given me many new opportunities for growth. I was fortunate to have excellent eldering support and a wonderful, small group of committed participants with whom I learned as much as I taught.
The image that comes to mind in reflecting on my experience of the Gathering is of concentric circles. At the beginning I found my place, my spiritual center, and gradually worked my way to the outer circles, where I join others in the work of holding the center for all of us. This is so different from the hierarchical structures of other religious bodies!
Charlotte (Charley) Basham is a member of Chena Ridge Meeting in Fairbanks, Alaska. She currently serves FGC as clerk of Ministry and Nurture.
