Saturday, January 9, 2010

To the tomb ... and back

He breezed in yesterday, and almost as quickly as he had appeared, he was gone again. That's the way some things happen in life, and it's often only after a bit of time has gone by that we are able to remember much less appreciate the lessons learned or the words spoken.

A few months ago, he had borrowed some things from me in preparation for a sabbatical that he was to live during the latter part of last year. Now, he's back and returning the 'things'. While I'm sure he's still processing all that he's lived in these past few months, there is evidence that the experience was well worth it. When I asked for his impressions (something I'm sure many have done and will do in the coming days and weeks), his one response was 'you have to go'.

I could hear the excitement in his voice, the assurance that there is much at work within and I know only too well what it's like to try putting words to experiences that have recently been lived. Only with careful attention to unpacking such intense adventures can we begin to appreciate the changes that are effected, and the lessons that are learned.

I look forward to hearing more stories, more about the adventure, and (if he'll share them) benefitting from the wisdom that has been gleaned.

Ah, in case you're wondering about the title for this piece, it comes from the ancient custom of referring to a voyage to the Eternal City (Rome) as a pilgrimage to the Tomb of Peter. Throughout history, such pilgrimages have had the effect of changing those who have engaged in them, and it's already obvious that for him the experience proves to be true.

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