I realize that one way or another we all seek some kind of progress in our spiritual growth, whether understood in linear or non-linear terms. I find your own explanations of re-visiting old issues very helpful in this regard. One thing nice about the tornado image is that sometimes the process of growth involves genuine struggle amid which we may feel completely lost. The metaphor of tornado can be an accurate image of that stage of a person’s journey. Another thing I appreciate about your approach is the offering of multiple interpretations of given stages and your natural recognition of individual differences. Do you think there is some kind of force for good — some kind of Spirit — within, beneath, behind, or in front of the process of spiritual development, somehow guiding or inspiring it? And, if so, do you think that we are controlled by it? Or do you think that we have a kind of freedom not to respond to its promptings, however understood, such that we can truly miss the mark?

I am also wondering if you think there are times in a person’s life — or some people’s lives — when it is important to let go of ideals of “progress” and “growth” altogether and accept the sacrament, maybe even the grace, of un-self-awareness.

Thanks so much for sharing all that you share. It is all helpful.

Jay

I like to think of myself climbing a mountain and with each little bit of climbing I have a whole new viewpoint to revisit my ideas about things. So if I am working on the same subject again, it just means I have moved up the mountain and it means a new opportunity for more clairity. And when I believe I am moving forward—-I am.

Great Post! Thanks!