Being Spiritual Outdoors

When people talk about spirituality, a number of standard terms are used that have different meanings for different people. We have our own preferences, of course. Some terms we bristle at, because of bad experiences in the past, while others we cozy up to like old friends. Each term covers a huge amount of territory with many nuances.

In regards to what we actually mean, we also use many of the terms interchangeably. So don’t get hung up on a term. What we are seeking is connection to the deeper reality, a numinous experience. Substitute the term that has meaning for you.

When we go outdoors, these terms are no longer abstract and exist in our head. They become full-body experiences, and come alive.

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Mindfulness is camping in the wilderness, rising at dawn, and listening to the air, the trees, and the birds wake up as we cook breakfast over a fire.

Prayer is a conversation we have with the mountains and rivers, with the ravens and coyotes. We open ourselves to nature, and listen for the presence of the Other in the landscape. As we do, our perceptions about ourselves and the world deepen. We watch the everyday life of the outdoors, and grow in compassion for all creatures.

Awareness is an adventure. On the trail, we don’t know what we will find around the next bend. We might encounter a a mountain lion or a mother bear with her cubs, and need to quietly, and slowly, back away. The trail may also take us to a stunning view over a river canyon that leaves us slack-jawed with awe.

Insights of contemplation come like the touch of a cool breeze on our forehead on a hot day when we’re hiking up the steep ridge behind North Dome at 8400 feet.

Awe is feeling the Creator walk by in a massive rainstorm that sweeps through the valley with rumbling thunder and flashes of lightning.

As we hike into unknown territory, we trust the Spirit to guide us where we need to go. We travel with holy intention on a search that may take years, yet we are mindful that this beauty is not our destination. And yet, we know that in this moment there is this beauty, and it is to be taken in and celebrated.

Mindfulness is a journey; it’s also our companion along the way.

Prayer is being aware of the pine seedling rising through the humus on the ground.

Gratefulness is watching the alpenglow on white granite mountains deepen from red to purple, stars appear that travel overhead, and being thankful for our pilgrimage through the depths of the Cosmos, for being part of what will be and what has been.