12oz | handmade | soy wax | toxin-free  | 75+ hours 
To gently sit with one's own thoughts, to savor simple meals enjoyed among community, to tend a garden, to contemplate the sweetness and sufferings of life, to work to lessen the plight of others—this is the Good Life. Monasteries were historically designed to offer a life of meaning for both individuals and community, all while being in thoughtful relationship with nature, truth and beauty.
 
This candle is inspired by a visit to an Italian monastery where I learned the power an atmosphere can have in supporting a life of meaning. One of the rooms I visited was the bedroom of a monk—it was both understated and beautiful. It held a simple bed, a desk, a small book cubby, a wooden chair, a dresser, a piece of art—and a candle. Nothing more, nothing less. It was clear that the candle was not merely aesthetic, nor was it necessary for lighting the space. The candle functioned to remind the monks that they were in the presence of the sacred, even in the midst of an otherwise ordinary life.
 
Much of contemplative life in a monastery centers on mystery, facing some of life's most pressing and unanwerable questions head-on. How did we get here? What is our purpose? What happens when we breathe our last, and why does it matter? Learning to live in mystery with steadfast courage and humility is the name of the game. With that in mind, I've kept the fragrance notes of this particular candle a mystery. I hope it's a nice metaphor for cultivating a practice in trusting that which we don't know, and perhaps even finding joy in the not knowing. 
 
Cheers! Happy rest and contemplation with scent 07 or otherwise. :)