One step at a time.

Taking the Steps

“Sometimes when we pray for miracles, what we're really praying for is help in skipping steps, for shortcuts. The simple act of acceptance, of returning to each step of our path, can often bring us the miracle we need.”

                                      Melody Beattie (Journey to the Heart)

I have always wanted to see Ireland, where my ancestors lived. One of my sons and just about every adult I know has been there. They tell me it's beautiful and the people are friendly to Americans. The only problem is getting there—to do that I have to get on an airplane and fly for many hours. I have to sit in airports and be told the flight is delayed. I have to risk everything; loss of luggage, sleep and peace of mind. Either that, or get on a ship and cross the ocean—even worse for one who gets sea-sick. I really want to say, “Beam me down, Scottie,” and seconds later, walk out of the transporter into the Irish countryside. Alas, we're not there yet—but soon, children, very soon.

There are many times every day I'd like to skip the steps and go straight to the reward. I live in a county that declared bankruptcy a couple of years ago. Courthouse branches were closed and hundreds of employees laid off. Now, to get a driver license, renew a tag, or register anything, you can spend half a day or more standing in line. My son did that not too long ago and after an hour and a half of standing, was told they would take only three more people before closing—he was fourth!

We'd also like to skip the steps on our spiritual journey. Especially those hard old steps—the dark night, the soul searching, making difficult choices and living with sometimes harsh consequences. We'd prefer to jump to the rewards—knowing our own strength, having confidence and peace of mind. But alas, children, we're not there yet either. Taking the hard steps is what gets us there. I hate that!

According to Beattie, (and to me), the real miracle is gaining acceptance that some parts of life are challenging; getting to the end of any journey requires taking one step at a time. Each step is a teacher—each experience, a lesson. It's one of those, “pull up your big-girls and get on with it,” things. I'm going to Ireland in the fall—in an airplane. (Gulp!)

                                         In the spirit,

                                            Jane