The Importance of Spiritual Practice in Navigating Uncertainty

Edgewalker Senior Associate Patricia Campanile

We are not in control. The uncertain times we have been living in have shown us that regardless of our good intentions to plan, organize, make resolutions and control our lives we have been asked to let go and create a plan B. Whether change has been forced upon us or we had to make difficult and necessary decisions to shift our plans, we were often left with feelings of disappointment, sadness, frustration and despair. Unanswered questions, what’s next, what now, and feeling as if we are sailing through the “fog” of the unknown can also be an opportunity to discover, recover and apply spiritual practices that can guide us into our new future and evolving world.

I love how Thomas Merton describes uncertainty: “You do not need to know precisely what is happening, or exactly where it is all going. What you need is to recognize the possibilities and challenges offered by the present moment, and to embrace them with courage, faith, and hope.” My inherent Edgewalker nature and those of my colleagues and friends who share the Edgewalker journey are supported by our orientation to look to the future and focus on opening to new possibilities. To quote the wisdom of Buddha: ” To know and not to do is really not to know.” NOW is the time to do, and be, what we know! This is when “the spiritual rubber meets the road.” These are the times to support ourselves and one another by integrating and applying our spiritual practices and rituals, and modeling and walking our talk with integrity and courage. When Edgewalkers access their spiritual connection they are more easily guided by their intuitive wisdom, trust their faith in the Universe and rely on their inner strength.

Spiritual practices and ritual can anchor and guide you to stay balanced, centered and focused as you move away from familiar shores as the new horizons unfold. For many these practices are no longer optional but necessary to assist you in staying the course and discovering what is next with curiosity and an open heart and mind. What are your navigational “tools” as you sail through uncertainty? Some examples of spiritual practices and rituals include prayer and meditation, yoga and breath work, walking a labyrinth, reading books on personal and spiritual development, journaling, creating an altar and sacred space, setting intentions on the new moon and letting go of the old and what no longer serves you on the full moon. Space clearing and feng shui as well as creating a vision board can help you attract what you want. Being in the beauty and peace of Nature can ground and expand you and provide perspective as you step away from everyday life. Experiencing the energy of a group, whether online (such as Edgewalker Cafes) or in person gatherings such as drumming circles, support groups, church services, and sacred dance create the interconnectedness and support that community provides, whether it be the Edgewalker community or one you resonate with.

As you explore and reflect on your journey thus far, remember that the choices you have made throughout your life have brought you to this exact moment. There are no accidents. What will you consciously choose now with the knowledge and discernment you have accumulated over your lifetime? Are there spiritual practices and rituals you can add to your daily life to assist you as you move forward? Utilizing what you have learned and chosen to embrace along your journey develops the strength, the “muscle” of awareness, trust, courage and self-acceptance. Clarity and certainty are available to us if we are fully present, breathe and appreciate each moment. This is the greatest spiritual practice of all!

• Edgewalkers
• Evolutionary Leaps of Faith
• Patricia Campanile
• Self-awareness