So it's not just we religious folk who claim that what we're up to as individuals and as the human race is at least something like a pilgrimage. It is a seeking out of adventure, peace, wisdom, home and a holy place. Way up there at Guenoc Winery there will be an oasis for an afternoon, where pilgrims will travel to give some sort of homage to this place, to be in community with one another, and to receive back in art a glimpse of the truth and beauty of this watershed's life. Pilgrimage is on my mind because we're just beginning the secular season of saying goodbyes, of sending out into the world seniors who have completed the undergraduate educational part of their life's journey. Job interviews, packing up of belongings, farewell ceremonies, parties and travel arrangements all are underway.
Pilgrims have to leave places as well as arrive.
It's not often easy for the one leaving or for those who remain behind - no matter how exciting the journey ahead. We'll send her off with prayers, poems, dances and love. One of the poems will be from a book on the Belfry's worship resource shelf - Prayers for a Planetary Pilgrim by Edward Hays. And though we take the journey alone, we are all in it together. And there are guides along the way too.