Leave a Trail

‘Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.’ (Ralph Waldo Emerson)

A Path to be Proud Of

Always remember that everything you do has effects on the rest of the world – I always envision them as ripples of a sort spreading outwards into everything. However solitary or private our actions, these ripples are created. It is akin to trying to swim in a pool without affecting anyone else. It’s impossible not to have an effect on the water around you, however slight. Visualise this and try to live your life in such a way that whenever you stop and look at the ripples going out from you (or the footsteps you’ve left behind, etc etc) you see only things that you’re proud to call yours, and one that others might have benefited from following or pulling up alongside.

At a Crossroads

You cannot know where you are going unless you know the path that brought you to where you are now. Imagine yourself at a crossroads. Trace in your mind’s eye the path that you have taken to bring you here. Consider that path in a neutral light, neither understating nor exaggerating its hardships and wrong turnings. The important thing here is that you shouldn’t judge yourself, your thoughts or your actions. Not at this stage, anyway. You cannot unwind the path of the past but you can change direction now. Choose your route and travel on in confidence.

A Map of the Future

Perform this meditation to help you negotiate your way through various options. First, sketch a map of the paths available to you, and the potential paths these may lead to in the future. Illustrate each path with relevant images of symbols. Meditate on the map. Notice whether particular images draw your attention, or new images occur to you, suggesting alternative courses of action. Allow your inner sense of direction to speak to you. This visual and also physical (the act of drawing/writing) aspects can really help you go through things in your mind. Some people also like to use collages and stuff like that too, so see what works for you! Just another idea that might be useful, but also might not.

Becoming the Path

‘You cannot tread the path without first becoming the path yourself.’ (Zen saying)

What does this mean to you? By all means, discuss in the comments!

Ancient Paths

‘Stand at the crossroads, and look, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way lies, and walk in it, and find rest for your souls.’ (Jeremiah 6:16)