Over my lifetime, I have had several mentors, spiritual directors, coaches, and role models who have challenged, inspired, and supported me. Let's take a moment to recall -- and offer a word of thanks -- to those people who have walked with us and encouraged growth and understanding.
One of my earliest role models was a newly ordained priest who described us as Pilgrim People on a Journey Together.
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| Who has inspired you on your journey? ~ ~ Click on image to enlarge ~ ~ (Photo credit: Pickles, Brian Crane, 12/08/24) |
He described how there would be times in our lives when we would need people to walk alongside us as friends and colleagues... sometimes walking in front of us to lead us... other times to walk behind us to encourage us. There might be times, he said, when we would need to be carried -- and to be be ready to carry others -- when too exhausted to travel alone.
These images of a Common Unity (community) who is conscious of a Shared Journey, our Vulnerability, and our Need for assistance and direction have stayed with me throughout my life's travels.
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| How have you prepared for your journey? (Photo: Ancient Travel, ms Zaandam - Larry Gardepie) |
I believe this message from my youth is even more relevant today as we experience:
- Separation and Division... we are called to work towards Unity.
- Hatred and Discord... we are called to remember Love and Kindness.
- Struggle and Strife... we are called to work together for the Common Good.
We don't have to live in a world that doesn't care... we are called to Care!
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| Where has your journey taken you? (Photo: Settlement of Oceania, Bishop Museum, Honolulu - Larry Gardepie) |
- Walk alongside... by listening;
- Walk in front... guiding and listening;
- Walking behind... encouraging and listening!
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| Larry Gardepie
Dialogue San Diego Consulting
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