… a spiritual journey, is intuitive, nonlinear, and experiential. It points us toward our essential nature, which is a reflection of the boundless creativity of the universe.

— John Daido Loori

Greetings, Inspired Seekers!

It is that time again. Time for an end-of-the-year reflection and a look into the promise of a new beginning soon to be born. It is that time of transition. And transitions are often painful – the stage that ends one moment, often of suffering, while it precedes the birthing of the new one. Oftentimes, we view the new “transition” as the release of life moments inflamed by pain. And yet, this is the point where we often discover the depths of our wisdom, courage and faith.

In the quiet moments, we have the opportunity to listen to that still voice within us rather than the clamor of the world or our monkey mind. And here we are at this point, yet again. The pivot point we balance upon each year. How will you listen, as you balance, differently?

And what will the listening compel us to finally change in this new year of our earthly lives? Will you really listen to that voice that lives in us all? The voice of many sacred names – God, Allah, Jesus, Spirit, Intuition, Source, Great Spirit – there are so many names giving voice to us from within. And what will it take to move, then, from listening to a disciplined practice that changes our lives? That is often the transition requiring a few steps – usually a big leap of faith, inspired by that Voice.

Perhaps our unrest at the ending/beginning of a year is because we listen to the wrong voice. Perhaps we listen to the loudest one. Or, perhaps we listen to the voice of the world, the cacophony of chaos and miss a deeper, more resonant sound – the Soul Voice. Perhaps this is the essence of all transitions. Perhaps.

May you hear all of the good that comes from the Voice Within. And may it bring you joy and true peace that can be extended to the world.

Grace, Always Yours,
Reverend Deborah

Question of the Month: Am I willing to dig deep, listen to the voice within and experience this transition of change?

The Reverend Dr. Deborah Darlington is available for speaking engagements, sacred celebrations and all rites of passage in this New Year. She can be reached at GraceMatters@TheSpaceForGrace.com or at 215 260 1611.