Reverence
Tom Soma
Last week I had the privilege of studying with four fascinating teachers, each of whom followed a spiritual course with which I had little prior knowledge: Druidic, Native African, Native American, and Sufi. While I enjoyed learning about certain customs and practices associated with the respective traditions, I was literally mesmerized by the way the teachers carried themselves.
While each was firmly rooted in his or her chosen path, they shared an intense respect for and connection with the natural world. As the Sufi put it (and the others inferred), “Wherever you look, there is God.” The way they walked made that conviction clear. Each moved gently, gracefully, and with profound reverence. Even though their feet never left the ground, they appeared to hover slightly above.
Witnessing such deep reverence brought to mind a visceral reaction I had while watching a man bow before an altar several months earlier—a gesture I’ve seen in many churches. I wonder why we don’t approach each other with similar awe?
“Life is miraculous,” writes Anthony De Mello, “and anyone who stops taking it for granted will see it at once.”
My four teachers take nothing for granted. Consequently, they experience miracles daily. Their gentle gaits honor the presence of God in all creation. Even if I fail to remember anything they said, I’ll never forget the way they walked. I hope someday to move likewise.
(Kingman, Arizona)