Pilgrimage Into Soul
December 3, 2023
In November of this year, we participated in a spiritual pilgrimage with Phil Cousineau, author of The Art of Pilgrimage. A master of leading small expeditions, Phil sets a beautiful tone and prepares his pilgrims long before departure.
True to the advice in Phil’s now classic book, we pilgrims set an intention for the spiritual journey. This process is essential because it prepares our hearts to perceive the things we need while on the pilgrimage.
One of my intentions for this pilgrimage was to realize and absorb the spiritual wealth of Italy, the ancient country we traveled in. By doing this, I hoped to deepen my soul. We saw many glorious works of art by Michelangelo, Giotto, Bernini, Botticelli and others. We visited overwhelmingly beautiful basilicas, such as St. Marco’s in Venice, chapels like the Sistine Chapel and exquisite churches and monasteries all over the Italian countryside. They and the art within them were awe-inspiring.
In the hill town of Perugia, outside the cathedral, our local guide pointed out many interesting things about the cathedral and its architecture. But for me, something happened that surpassed any architecture or work of art.
A tall man, like a well-dressed Dickinsonian character with a scarf around his neck, came bounding out of the side door of the great cathedral. He had a purposeful walk and carried books under one arm and a large wooden cross nearly two feet long. I pulled away from our small group of pilgrims to speak to this most interesting-looking person.
As I approached him with a smile, he turned toward me and we shook hands. I asked, “What is the large cross for?” He replied, “Oh, I take it everywhere I go.” Then he asked me, “Where are you from?” I replied, “The United States of America,” to which he responded positively, “I love Americans; I just love America; it’s such a wonderful and poor country.” Then he said, “I would love to talk more, but I must go now.” Then off he trotted.
I was left to interpret that comment by myself in light of my intention of soul-deepening. The result: he told me he loved my country and its people. He was also saying that we are “poor.” Economically, the USA is not poor, but perhaps he meant another kind of poverty. Perhaps he demonstrated that we can come out of our poor condition by being loved by others who are rich with soul.
Inquiry: What would you have received from the interesting looking man?
Dear God,
His message deepened my soul, mind and heart. I am still reflecting on his words. Amen.
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