Down through the ages pilgrims on the road to popular pilgrimage destinations such as the Holy Land, Rome, or Santiago de Compostela would only bring with them what they could carry.

A pilgrim’s possessions consisted of a cloak for warmth, a satchel or bindle in which to store a few necessary items, a coin purse for money, a walking stick to offer support, and a vade mecum (a small book with instructions and prayers) to give guidance along the way. Every other necessity, including food and lodging, was provided by the hospitality of strangers along the way. Their emotional load was light as well—before leaving for an arduous journey, all debts had to be settled, disputes resolved, and sins confessed. Free to journey without any burden other than the trials of the path before them, these pilgrims of old traveled uninhibited, fully present to the journey and its invitations each day.

 

As COVID restrictions on travel begin to loosen many of us are starting to plan journeys of our own.  Current advances in the travel industry have allowed us to carry more with us when we travel. Large bags roll on wheels and airplanes can compress a multi-month migration into a single day. If something was left unsaid to a friend or family member before a departure, we needn’t worry; they’re always just an email or phone call away. Traveling light is no longer a requirement in order to reach our destination. Still, whether an ancient pilgrim traveling a well-worn path or a modern pilgrim jet-setting around the globe, one thing remains true: the greater the baggage, the heavier the load.

 

This load is not only physical; it can also be emotional, mental, and spiritual. Specific commitments, certain relationships, and long-held limiting beliefs can weigh heavily on us. Expectations and attachments can be equally burdensome. The saying “wherever you go, there you are” rings true. Even if you pack light for a trip, you still might be carrying more than you intend. Emotional, mental, and spiritual baggage travels with us on our journeys abroad and accompanies us in everyday life.

 

Come and join us for Prayer Lab this Sunday, May 23^rd, to look at a few ways we may be able to lighten the load we carry, the burdens we try to shoulder and help rid ourselves of so much unnecessary baggage.

 

Prayer Lab gathers on Zoom at 10 am.  Join via video or phone connection. More information is available here.