The path is uncharted. It comes into existence moment to moment

and at the same time drops away behind us. It is like riding a train

backward. We can’t see where we are headed only where we have

been. – Pema Chodron

Our true path in life is really only known by looking behind us.

Wherever we have been in our lives is where we belonged at that

moment.

We make plans, set goals and head in a particular direction. That

is how many things get accomplished along the way. Conscious

directionality is a very positive thing. It is like picking a landmark on

the horizon and heading for it. That is one of the ways to not get lost

on wilderness treks. But it is only part of the story. In life there are

detours, diversions, and digressions. They are inevitable. These too are

our path. Sometimes we walk in circles going over and over the same

territory until we have worn a ditch in the ground. And then for one

reason or another we are jolted into the realization of what we are

doing. With a startle or gasp we are pushed into a new direction that

is more free, less repetitive and more authentic. It is all path and most of it

is not linear. The Soul holds all of this with equal compassion, patience

and love.

As I look back at my own life there has been a lot more walking

in circles, doubling back and changing my mind than I expected. I

sometimes look back and shake my head while asking the iconic

question, “What was I thinking when I did that?” And the inner

response from the Soul is some form of “It was just the path at the

time.”