I have been recently reflecting on the experience of the spiritual path in today's age of social media and heightened public visibility. Everyone always seems to present themselves as though they have arrived at their truth, wisdom fully acquired, life is bliss. This has always irked me in some way, like nails to a chalkboard.
For a long while I thought it was ME with the problem, I was being too judgmental, or I was dealing with an inferiority complex. Perhaps there was some truth there, but I believe underneath those feelings was a deeper and more poignant truth.
So often we get caught up in the destination before recognizing, appreciating, or even consciously waking up to the journey we are presently on. I know this has been true for me time and time over again, only to be thrown back into my face for me to learn from. As I have been pursuing my shamanic training and dabbling in social media sharing, I feel conflicted in how I am presenting myself to the world. I am still and will forever be on a path of learning and growing, wisdom seeking and humility awakening. And yet, I am entering a phase where there is much for me to share with the world. What I have learned from decades of spiritual growth, intense trainings and workshops, I am recognizing that there is much wisdom and practical knowledge that may benefit and serve others. But I am far from reaching any sort of spiritual destination or stagnant place of arrival.
My journey feels knee deep in mud at the moment, as I slough through and find more stable ground, learning how to present myself to the world. There are times I want to give up and stop this challenging quest of asking and expanding, sharing and presenting, while not getting caught up in the destination. When I become too fixated on where I am going, or who I think I am becoming, I forget that I am even alive at all. Right now, in these muddied times, its so helpful for me to take notice of the fruits that are born from the mud on this spiritual path. This is where the magic lies, this is where we dig deep into who we are becoming and find our light within. In truth, I never want to reach a single destination, for the muddy journey is where all the life happens.
No matter where you are on your spiritual path, may this be a gentle reminder that it's okay if you don't know where you are going or who you are or want to be. We are all, always, in an ever expanding, ever revealing journey of discovering our light within. It can be challenging and difficult at times, and it can be beautiful and serene at times, and sometimes it can just feel "blah." But no matter which time you find yourself in, there is always truth to be found, lessons to be learned, and wisdom gained from this muddy path. Learn to lean into the uncertainty and messiness. Take joy in this mysterious journey of life and coming home to yourself in this moment.
Much love and light,
Emily
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