Perspectives on the Spiritual Journey

As I drove from Des Moines to St. Louis to spend Christmas with my family, the fog was, as they say, thick as pea soup.

During the early morning foggy drive, a number of parallels came to mind between my drive to St. Louis and my spiritual journey. These include:

Early in the journey there is uncertainty

While you can’t see the end, there is a clear path ahead

It is helpful to travel in groups

It is helpful to follow experienced travelers

You will gain courage and light as your journey continues

On journey, people make mistakes. Cut them some slack

You will pass some people and some people will pass you

There are rest stops along the way. Stopping stops your progress

Don’t miss your turnoff

Music helps

Take notes

There are perils around every corner

Push ahead hard and don’t lose patience with your progress

As you gain experience you will be able to lead others

Even after a long way, there are still foggy patches

Going too fast is dangerous

Too much focus on personal comfort will slow your progress

It is dangerous to follow anyone too closely

Pay attention to the signs

Focus, effort and discipline are required throughout the journey