 The Jeita Grotto is a karstic limestone cave outside of Beirut. She has been there, in the mountains of Lebanon since the Paleolithic era. I first visited Jeita Grotto over sixteen years ago, and most recently, on Christmas day, 2010. Currently one of the sites being voted for as one of the 7 Wonders of the World, it is one of my favorite places on the planet and the experience of standing in the womb of the earth is extraordinary, visceral and soul-stirring. Archetypally inspired writing will often speak of the cave as an expression of the Great Mother. In Jeita, the symbol of the cave is an experience supported by reality. On each visit, I was overcome with the awe of the physical environment as well as the strength of the emotionally toned response of being in the field of the Great Mother. This powerful energy is not only positive, it is daunting!The upper caves are challenging to walk; the steps are slippery and the heights take your breath away. This all makes for a slower, more cautious tour. The lower caves are accessed by a small boat that glides you inches underneath the crystallized "icicles." The first time I was there I was carrying my son in my womb. On this visit he was standing beside me, holding my hand for support. On this past Christmas Day, Jeita heightened my appreciation for the passing of time and the eternal replication of the birthing experience, both physically and psychically. |
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