Several years ago I frequented a Japanese inspired spa. There was a large communal hot tub and a cold plunge. I remember well taking the plunge. The cold water would quite literally leave you breathless. The spa was in the mountains, so the air would be cold when you would come out of the plunge. The exit usually meant either grabbing for a robe or getting right back into the hot water.
What motivates us to take the plunge? Is there something beguiling about the icy water? Do we think that it might not be as cold as we know it to be? Are we seduced?
There are times as I go about my day when the call to prayer and silence is so profound it seems like a seduction. I know that I will give in to the call even when sometimes I would rather not. During those times of strong calling I feel as if I am taking the cold plunge. Is it entirely of my free will? The immersion is so complete that I have to wonder who is doing the calling.
My Labyrinth Journey 