H's Pilgrimage to Europe (and to Themself)

"The Way It Is"

 

There’s a thread you follow. It goes among

things that change. But it doesn’t change.

People wonder about what you are pursuing.

You have to explain about the thread.

But it is hard for others to see.

While you hold it you can’t get lost.

Tragedies happen; people get hurt

or die; and you suffer and get old.

Nothing you do can stop time’s unfolding.

You don’t ever let go of the thread.

~ William Stafford

 

Pilgrimage: A journey into an unknown, unfamiliar place to deepen one's understanding of themselves, the Sacred, and the world in hopes of personal transformation.

 

Dear community, near and far,

 

I humbly seek financial support as I plan my own pilgrimage to Europe this August to learn alongside one of my beloved teachers, Jessica Patterson, in Umbria, Italy. Truthfully, I didn't even fully read the program's description before deciding that I would participate - I trust Jessica's personhood and teachings that much. Her commitment to and depth of knowledge of the practice of yoga inspires me, to say the very least, and when I discover someone who is living a vital life in alignment with their calling, I learn from them.

 

My intention for this weeklong experience, entitled "Five Sacred Altars: A Yogic Pilgrimage to Self," is to:

 

In other words, I am simply continuing to follow the thread that William Stafford is speaking to - the thread I have been following since I was 20 years old and has consistently invited me toward deeper and deeper commitments - to myself and my growth.

 

Asking for money is both a challenging and humbling experience for me. However, I cannot do this on my own, so I must turn to my community - those who love me and want me to thrive - to support me as I take this leap across the pond. The expenses for this trip are as follows:

Any additional money raised will go toward paying to park my car at the airport for the week and any gas expenses (the airport is roughly a 2-hour drive one way).

 

If you are able to contribute, thank you. Thank you for investing in me, the nourishment of my spirit, and my commitment to the thread of my life. I am immensely grateful.

 

With great love,

H