A theme woven into much of my work that I offer is an idea of a spiritual path, a journey of awakening.  For those in Recovery it’s often referred to as surrendering to your higher power. The spiritual path embodies faith, the idea that even though it may not always feel like it, we are moving towards a life filled with freedom, peace, and joy.

In this space it is important to remember that the spiritual journey is not an instant awakening.  It’s a series of special moment, of moments of hope and peace.

I always like to remind myself that Buddha sat and meditated for a great many years, many lifetimes even, before he reached enlightenment.

From acknowledging and training the mind we may gain peace and wisdom.  Eventually.  And we may not.  We delve into this practice because we are curious, because we want to awaken to life.  Perhaps we are tired of doing the same thing over and over again and want to walk on a different path.  Maybe we’re just curious about our path in life.  Or we are unhappy and wondering what more is out there in the world.

The commitment to your spiritual journey is a lifelong commitment.  As the Sakyong Mipham states “When we want to change our life, we dive into spiritual practice and expect to see quick results, only to lose focus after the honeymoon has worn off.” We are not entitled to spiritual enlightenment.  Clarity takes effort, often over a prolonged period of time.  It also takes faith.  Faith that if I follow this path and practice time and time again than maybe one day I will feel more spiritually connected, open, and free.  At least I’ll learn a whole lot about myself along the way.

I don’t know what your unique journey will be, you might stay and meditate for awhile and then steer away, and then life may cause  you to bring awareness back to your path.  Much like the moon waxes and wanes.

And no, it’s not instant. 

The spiritual awakening is a series of awakenings that you will find along your individual path.

I am often asked if I could just wave my magic wand and make people perfect.  And my answer is: would you even want that? Isn’t life all about the journey?  I am a tool to help you along your life’s journey, and your healing journey is within you.

Reflection:

Take a moment and ask yourself why you want to walk this path?
What are some barriers in your own life or in your head that have been holding you back?
What are your expectations, if any, that you have given yourself?
At this moment, how committed are you to this path?