What happens when life changes, the house grows quiet, and we find ourselves alone with who we really are?

In this episode of The Spiritual Artist Podcast, CJ Miller welcomes harpist, composer, author, and Episcopal priest April Stace for a heartfelt conversation about solitude, creativity, presence, and personal transformation.

Following a divorce and her only child leaving for college, April found herself living alone for the first time. What initially felt overwhelming gradually became an unexpected invitation to rediscover herself. Through music, journaling, gardening, and a solitary train journey across the country, she began exploring the freedom of listening to her own desires.

April shares how these experiences inspired her seventh studio album, Aphelion, a musical memoir exploring solitude, loss, and the surprising ways distance can bring us home.

Together, CJ and April explore the difference between loneliness and solitude, the sacred practice of listening, and how creativity emerges when we stop forcing outcomes and become fully present. They also discuss April's experiences as a hospital chaplain, the transformative power of compassionate attention, and the importance of allowing ourselves to change.

About April Stace

April Stace is a harpist, composer, writer, Episcopal priest, and Associate Professor of Practical Theology at The General Theological Seminary in New York City. A lifelong musician, April has released seven studio albums, including Aphelion, an original solo harp album exploring solitude, loss, creativity, and renewal. She is also the author of several books, including White Knuckle Love: A Memoir of Holding, which draws upon her experiences as a hospital chaplain. Across her music, writing, teaching, and ministry, April explores how art can open us to mystery, deepen our attention, and help us feel less alone.

Explore April's music, books, and creative work:

https://www.aprilstace.com

Learn more about Aphelion:

https://www.aprilstace.com/aphelion

Want to learn more about CJ Miller? Check out his Spiritual Artist Retreats, 1:1 Personal Coaching, and Speaking Engagements at www.spiritualartisttoday.com. His retreats are designed to help you reconnect with your Creative Intelligence and express your true artistic voice. You can also find his upcoming schedule there, and his book, The Spiritual Artist, is available on Amazon.