I hear the geese before I see them. The loud calls cause me to look up and watch their beautiful V formation move across the sky. They are heading south, to warmer shores. Wise birds.
Life is a journey and we are also going somewhere. Whether we are flying, or being flown, we will arrive somewhere. Nothing is static in this world, we are at all times being pushed forward. Where do we want to go? – that’s the question we should ask ourselves. Or, Where must we go? Or where can we go to find our best, most complete and fulfilled self?
I remember a song from my younger days, “Do you know where you’re going to? Do you like what life is showing you?” At that time my answer to both questions was No. I know more now.
There is a longing in the heart that comes from the deepest part of our essential being, our soul-self (I say soul-self, as we often speak of the soul as a part of us, forgetting that the soul is us). In any case, this longing, this pinch in the heart, calls us to question our life, our time, our very existence. This is a very good thing and if we seek to truly answer these questions we will find our way, not only in this life, but beyond.
Life is short, the days are long, and the journey often zig-zagged. How can we stay in charge of the journey and not give up and be pulled in all directions? Here is what those enduring (and endearing) geese taught me:
Find our Group – spend time with those who are flying in the same direction, and our energy and achievements are doubled. Fly with those who nourish, enliven, and inspire us in spiritual life.
Fly High – stay above the fray of everyday life. Let it disappear beneath you at days end. It’s over and let it go. Keep your spirits, your head, and your heart in the higher altitudes of refined and gracious spirituality.
Take Turns – the geese are so great they rotate leadership, sometimes leading, sometimes supporting but always participating. Become a servant and a support for all.
Make Noise – geese make noise along their journey and so should we. Talk, laugh, share, be open, and constantly communicate. Write, sing, and dance along the way. Chant your mantras with great joy! If we have faith that the end of the journey is good, then we should make exuberant noise along the way. Let others look at us and smile.
Fly from the Cold – not the weather, but the cold thoughts that ice up our brains. Fly south like the birds, to the warm energies of forgiveness, generosity, gratitude, gracious acceptance, respect, service, and devotional moods.
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