Your Unique Path

I am listening to a man tell another man what path he should take in life. It started out as some sort of career-oriented discussion, but quickly shifted to a discussion of the younger man’s journey through life. On one hand, I am impressed by the subject matter: how many people go through life without giving a single thought to the meaning and purpose of their individual life-- without a thought given to why they are here, at this time, in this place? On the other hand, I am a bit miffed at how easily the older gentleman is holding-forth on his opinion as to the correct path for his younger friend.

“Paths” are unique. Your path is your path, and not his path. Others may have wisdom regarding what to look for, what you may want to avoid, etc., but no one can discover and map out the path of another human being.

One of the first stories I read of the Holy Grail was where Arthur and his Knights are sitting at the Round Table waiting for their meal. Arthur was concerned that his men were getting a bit soft, losing the sense of purpose and mission that had forged them all together years before. Finally, he announced that they were not going to eat until something magical occurred, something that would reawaken their vision.

After considerable time, the Holy Grail appeared before them, hovering in the air. As it floated around the table the Knights were in absolute awe, stunned by the miraculous apparition. Once the Grail disappeared, it was agreed upon that they would all go on a Quest to find this chalice.

At this point of the story, Sir Percivale said that while the Knights most definitely should go on the Quest, it would be ignoble if they went as a group. Rather, what they each should do is make their own way. And then, as the story is told, it is said that each Knight went to the deepest, darkest part of the forest they could find, where there were no other paths, and there they would enter and begin their Quest.

From a Christian perspective: It was the same Quest (knowing the True God), the same Holy Grail (encountering the God who is Light, Life and Love), the same forest (God’s kingdom)…but different paths. It is the same for each of us. Each of our stories will have many similarities but are, at the same time, quite unique. Your path to the Grail will be your path. You will learn from the journeys of others, but at the end of the day, your Quest will be unique. +

Today I depart for Kenya. Davide and I will be facilitating a training on Communication and Persuasion for young entrepreneurs in Nakuru. Won't be posting any more blogs for at least 2 weeks.

Copyright, Monte E Wilson, 2008