So, what is a "Planetary Pilgrim?"

Thank you for asking! The way I see it, Planetary Pilgrims look at life and at the world from the point of view of the Universe. They are able to imagine what the world looks like from space, not only physically, but spiritually, as well. They try to be mindful of certain truths, even when they cannot be ever-mindful! Truths such as this one:

"Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these ..."


I am not a very good Planetary Pilgrim, but I am trying. I am beginning to learn the ways of the road. I have learned that it is not the destination that is important, but the journey. I have learned that one must know how to offer support, but also know how to receive support. 

During the past month, while waiting for surgery and whatever may come after that, I have felt enveloped by a mantle of support. I have been held inside a circle of caring and love. This circle is respectful, ongoing, strong, dignified. I have confirmed what I already knew - that I am not alone. That we  are not alone.


Today I posted a beautiful dance on this blog. I do not dance. But I have been adopted by those who love me. This is what being adopted means to me: being surrounded by a circle that offers joy and support in times of challenge. It is an active circle. It is not static at all; it keeps moving, slowly, without missing a beat. It encourages different dancers to play their roles. The dancers take turns. And the one dancer that supports the others as they take their turn hardly moves, yet he, too, is dancing. He is offering his strength, his steadiness, his balance.
 
Planetary Pilgrims appreciate their family and their friends. My daughter comes tomorrow, to be with us on the 24th. My grandchildren called me tonight to tell me that they are sending their mother, and to wish me good luck. They, too are dancers in this circle. My son encourages me and answers questions patiently when I need to learn how to do this, or that, how to compose a blog, how to post my father's stories on the Internet. He, too is a dancer in my circle.

Children, partners, in-laws, friends, colleagues. Nieces! A certain niece who sent me a bagful of Mardi Gras beads, for me to show off  before and after surgery! A sister who sends blessings and a sister who looks for reading materials. A nephew who takes and sends me lovely pictures. And David ... always, David.

Planetary Pilgrims bear witness to the psalm: "And when you call for me, I have already answered"!

We will talk, and see each other on the other side of March 24.

For now, it is time I got going. We will see each other around, surely, on the Road to Santiago