Pilgrimage
Why are we here? For Christians and those of many other faiths, the answers to this question are often found deep in our religion, or the values associated with that religious path. The values associated with those inform us about who made us why we are here and how we’re supposed to live our lives. Increasingly for many in the population of the United States, these questions are not answered by many religious paths.
This group has become known as Spiritual But Not Religious, or None-affiliated individuals. This makes up almost a third of the US population according to a recent Pew Research Study. This, however, can be a little alarming for those associated with a religious path, but in many cases, the NONEs values are very similar, just the path they want to reach is not via organized religion for whatever reason. They are, as are most of us, still spiritual searchers, looking for meaning and purpose in our lives. Modern Paganism perhaps illustrates this in a most vivid way, where individuals looking for meaning can search for the God(s) that make the most sense for their spiritual journey of the time, and then provide an exploration path for their spiritual lives. This is because there are so many Gods, you can search and find the one(s) that speak to you. It is in this speaking that we all embark on what we call pilgrimage in our lives. Don’t assume that because someone is on a different path to you, that they don’t know where they are going, or their lives are any less meaningful. For it is often on pilgrimage, that this meaning, or the clues to it, are found.
In the early days of Christianity, Christians were not known specifically as Christians. They were just followers of Christ, the followers of what was known as The Way. The way that had been played out by the mission of Jesus Christ. This search for the way continues in the real world today as we look for meaning. To track down this meaning we often try and find some way to break with either the business of the world or its chaos (sometimes both) which represents our everyday life. One way that we do this is by identifying a pilgrimage as a specific break, or a more specific activity that you’re using to try and find that dispensation fish that is going to splash the meaning into your life.
These events or mini journeys maybe some form of a trip or relaxation where you take some time to think, even for a short period of time, such as reading this reflection. Pilgrimages can be small or large, perhaps your trip to the therapist can be considered a pilgrimage of sorts, attending Sunday services, some quiet time with a friend, or even walking the dog! The longer ones are considered with greater discernment. Some of these take the form of sabbaticals (for those lucky enough to get one), or even take the ultimate Christian walk (The Camino in France and Spain). The bottom line is they come in many shapes and forms. They all, even the smaller ones have something in common. The intention.
When we take a break, a break with a purpose, with an intention, it morphs into this spiritual pilgrimage. We need some downtime, some rest, some without distraction time where we can untangle the sometimes-tangled fishing line of events in our lives. To explore with intention, but without trying to lead ourselves too much. In a results-orientated society, we are always looking for a result. Do we want inner peace? Of course. Want to be calmer and more reasoned? Of course? Can we conjure that up by announcing inner peace to ourselves? I don’t think so. How well does that work when you tell someone else to calm down?
No. Pilgrimage is both a small and a large event. It’s a series of our intentions and journeys to find meaning, to find out what we are supposed to be doing, or to affirm what we have done. It is us talking to the One within who loves us. The One who gave us love. The One who is love.
Whether we recognize the creator within, who made us all, it is there that the inner peace resides. Regardless of faith or religious path, we are always drawn to Him. But only when we let go and let the divine that is within us all leak out, with love and peace, can we truly benefit from our pilgrimage. The big pilgrimage. Life itself.
Intention
The Intention
Dig deeper in that hole,
And find the treasure,
the depth,
past rocks and water,
and reach true intention.
“And the one who searches hearts
knows what is the intention of the Spirit.”
Romans
Reflection, Poem and Image Copyright 2024 Michael J. Cunningham OFS
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A Spiritual Break always nudges me in the right direction. This commentary on a poem may be too lengthy for a comment but my intention is good:
The Journey is a poem written by David Whyte that explores the theme of life’s journey and the challenges that come with it. The poem talks about the need to embrace the unknown and to have faith in oneself to navigate the twists and turns of life.
The first stanza of the poem sets the tone for the journey ahead. The speaker talks about the road ahead being difficult and uncertain, but also filled with potential and possibility. The second stanza describes the importance of taking the first step and not being afraid of what lies ahead. The speaker encourages the reader to trust their instincts and to have faith in their abilities.
The third stanza is about the challenges that arise on the journey. The speaker acknowledges that there will be moments of doubt and fear, but these challenges are necessary for growth and transformation. The fourth stanza is about the importance of perseverance and determination. The speaker encourages the reader to keep moving forward, even in the face of adversity.
The fifth stanza is about the rewards that come with the journey. The speaker talks about the joy and fulfillment that come from living a life that is true to oneself. The final stanza is about the journey’s end. The speaker talks about the importance of looking back and reflecting on the journey, and the wisdom that comes from this reflection.
Overall, The Journey is a powerful and inspiring poem that reminds us of the importance of embracing life’s journey and having faith in ourselves. It encourages us to be brave, to persevere, and to find joy and fulfillment along the way.
Hi Tim. Certainly this is a pilgrimage or a journey, depending on your use of the description. The commentary on the poem looks interesting. God Bless, Michael
All this water has me thinking there will probably not be one big splash of meaning, but hopefully many little splashes along the way. So, today I’ll enjoy some of my world famous split pea soup with vegetables, while watching the splashes go by.
Not sure where I originally found the above commentary on the internet.