Sharing the Journey

I walk as much as I can; sometimes with other people and sometimes on my own. Walking is important to me.

I find it very challenging to sit in a meeting for more than an hour or so, but I can walk for quite a while.

I do my best listening and reflecting while I am walking. Walking is usually enough movement to help me, and anyone walking with me, relax; it is not so much activity that it distracts us.

Spiritual direction is like taking a walk.

I walk with people when I meet with them as a spiritual director. They are sharing part of the story of their journey with me, and it often helps if we take part of a day’s journey together.

Spiritual direction can be intimidating to people. They feel that they need to come up with incredibly deep questions to ponder, or deep truths to explore. Some people feel that they should ask very important questions, or to express essential truths.

Spiritual direction is like walking. You do not need to have any special equipment. You do not need to train or develop special skills. Spiritual direction is more a matter of taking the first step, and then putting one foot in front of the other. The idea is to relax and not be distracted.

A spiritual director is like a guide. They are not there to take the walk for you, they are there to help you take the walk for yourself. You share part of the journey. They may help you see where you have already been differently, and help you see which way to go next.

You often realize the benefits of spiritual direction when you are walking on your own.

Where will you walk today?

Who will you share your journey with today?

[Image by Asela]