Spiritual experiences take work. Lots of it. It's also not very pretty. And if we try to rush it too soon, it might actually be traumatic.

We think that all is lost. We lose hope. We cry and cry and don’t think the anguish will stop. Then suddenly, it’s morning.

The leaf also didn't care to set itself apart from the rest. It knows its place on the tree. It shares resources with the other leaves.

However, God always makes turns in the road to make sure we're paying attention. These turns aid in our growth as well.

Oftentimes, it's living life a little more slowly and mindfully allows us to find something to smile about every day.

Although most translations of this sutra will say "be islands unto yourselves," I found this translation to be beautiful.

In case you missed my passage meditation, the reading is below. It comes from Thomas Merton's book, New Seeds of Contemplation.

Eventually this patchwork of these idealized identities covers up our authenticity. I know for myself that I have struggled with this.

Evil seeks separation, whereas God seeks unity. Evil is the thorns that seek to choke the seeds of life.

One drop of water contains all the secrets of the oceans. In one motion of the mind are found all the motions of all the laws of existence.

When we don't have meaning in our lives, we find it difficult to cope, particularly when we're alone.

She sees every class, experience, and project as a small part of shaping her faith. She knows that she makes mistakes. We all do.

Rather than exhausting all of my efforts, I have to recognize when to let go. I can't give more than what I have.

The researchers also speculated that those who had low identity development might not know how to spend time alone to reflect.

Listen in for some peaceful restoration. Music: "Enlightenment" by Chris Collins at indiemusic.com.

We've forgotten our spirit. We really have. We have forgotten how deeply we're connected to one another. 

The mind in its ego trapping tells you to keep going, and we reward this tenacity. What eventually can play referee is the spirit.

You might try to distract yourself to push your loneliness aside. Or you can sit down with it and let it teach you something.

Has a cannonball immobilized you? Have your own imaginings been crushed, causing you to question if your life’s path is the right one?

Stephen Covey, in his book, “Seven Habits of Highly Effective People,” stressed balancing your day with the physical, spiritual, and mental.