I am greeted with smiling kindness and led through a maze of narrow, winding, two-way staircases, seating alcoves, courtyards and galleries that defy the world and all its troubles to follow.
Every sense is gently caressed with subtle encouragements to find sanctuary. There is so much care, so much unassuming quiet attention to detail it is a soft lullaby with no discordant notes.
The scent of Lily and Rose sneak upon your conscience wafting on the breeze from the open courtyards mingling with the underlying incense of woodsmoke.
Doves call tenderly to one another from the courtyard roof joined by the finches bubbling song and the occasional dissonant caw of a seagull.
Voices can be heard in domestic communion as cooperative feasts as prepared to delight guests: mint tea, olives, a tagine brimful of spices and artisan breads.
Beautiful objects that delight and inspire are visible in alcoves, on walls and tables: a foxed mirror hiding a secret heart, a wooden birdcage with no chorister, coloured glass lanterns, ancient pot-bellied urns, a chess set with its Queen overthrown, pots full of unruly plants cascade their greens in a flow of living art.
Meeting places, greeting places, eating places and quiet spaces are set amid these treasures with all manner of comfortable cushioned benches, chairs, pouffes and day-beds. Fabric and tile throw colour into the mix standing out against white painted walls that are plastered, moulded uneven yet smooth.
I reach the central courtyard and find the tree of life. It stands true, sustaining and channelling energy to the heart of the oasis. And key to unlock the heart as it reaches to the blue of the sky calling you to look to the heavens.
Here I shall find sanctuary. Here I will find rest and nourishment for my weary soul. Here I will revive under the tender loving gaze of an olive-God.
Fabulous Holly! Thank you
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