Liminal

A thoughtful little angel scribed this instruction for walkers in a Bristol park recently. I found it surprisingly helpful as I strode home from the studio, pondering what to do about certain things, shifting sands and the like.

It's about perception. Are we sitting under clouds (Numbers 9), or standing at crossroads? Maybe both.

'Liminal space' is a threshold between history and future. In this space, we are disconnected from our old identity, have let go of things we once clung to, and yet to be reformed in a new guise. The liminal space describes us as indescribable, in a place of disconnection, covers stripped away, pillars crumbled, handholds removed, awaiting new forms. By definition, in the transition state nothing much is familiar.

If you find yourself in a prolonged state of transition, be brave and take heart. You are you, right there. You are waiting, but not for life - you already have that, right here. It's the fruit of that life that you're eager to discover, and fair enough, but it takes time to grow. Assume and apply the gardener's patience in liminal space. Standing at a crossroads, there is much to ponder, and it's all about you - you unsullied, not him, or her, or them and what they turn you into. All that has gone. This is a chance to take stock, weigh up your options, salute your dreams, gather your strength and make some onward moves. Just don't forget to breathe.

{Today's Soundtrack: Aaron Strumpel - Elephants/Vespers}