Traveling As A Tourist Or A Pilgrim

REMINDER from Mano:

Writing this Blog is the first time Barbara has been aware that I am the one who inspired and opened doors for her to travel the world.

REMARKS from Barbara:

Much of the sharing about relating with nature as I traveled happened before I met Mano. Now I know he has guided me all of my life before he ever introduced himself to me.

REMEMBERING Mary Jane:

My heart is smiling. I read two of Mary Janes Blogs and once again I am deeply appreciating her beautiful spirit.

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Blog #134

Traveling As A Tourist Or A Pilgrim

When I traveled as a tourist
I got so involved with the people, places, 
And new things I was enjoying
I lost my sense of inner self and place

I didn’t realize this until I returned home
And returned to my morning practice
And spiritual routine
That I had lost myself in being a tourist

With that realization I started traveling as a pilgrim
Staying connected with my inner home base
Staying in bed to do my morning practice
Before getting up and moving into the days experience

As a traveler I was focused on outside stimulus and interaction
As a Pilgrim I stayed focused with my inner 
And watched for guidance and direction for my day 
From that inner place of presence

I had been going to the Amphitheater as a tourist
And postponed going as if it were a duty or obligation rather than a treasure
Now I will travel as a Pilgrim
Greeting the Sacred in that space and within myself

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Jim and I traveled to many countries when we volunteered work with JFO, An interdenominational international Christian Organization. I traveled the United States with my Parents as a child and bicycled through Europe the first year Europe was open after the war when I was 21. All in all, I have been in every state in the United States and 43 countries. 

Much of that travel I did as a tourist. There was a difference when I started traveling as a pilgrim. I made a point to go the city or county parks, the places where people gathered. I spoke to the elementals and sent blessings to the trees and plants. I always asked to find the oldest and the largest tree. I put my hands on her bark to bless her and I realize I was always blessed in return.

Whenever I go to the Amphitheater, I always stop at the first Redwood tree, who I call the Mother. I lean into her trunk to feel her love filling me and blessing me in return. I do a similar thing when entering a park, go to the beach, or wade in the river. It is my way to honor that special place where people gather and honor the nature spirits that live there.