Things Unseen

by | Dec 5, 2019

By Bob Houghtaling

Many spiritual traditions are celebrated during the late fall and winter months. People all over the world gather to observe and reflect upon things not seen but deeply believed. While debates take place over which belief is ‘truth’ there is no denying that billions of human beings seek connecting with divinity (or a higher power). 

Antoine de Saint-Exupery, the author of The Little Prince, wrote, “And now here is my little secret, a very simple secret: It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; What is essential is invisible to the eye.” In short, I believe, Saint-Exupery was reminding us of the truths that reside in a realm beyond the mind – spirituality. Love would be one example of such truths. While neurotransmitters, blood flow and racing hearts might be in play – love exceeds these in definition.

As we enter this special time of year let us celebrate those things not seen. Let us continue to hold dear our loves, friendships and pursuit(s) for meaning. Let us also reflect upon those who struggle through life’s hardships and remind ourselves of our own fragility. Each human being, regardless of status, can relate to loss, fear and the desire for purpose. The holiday season holds these dear. The holiday season also speaks more to our unity than separateness. More important than right, or wrong, the holiday season offers opportunity for growth, introspection and connection.

The poem The Stars is my attempt to explain something beyond explanation. Our existence is so incredible unto itself. We are all unique individuals imbued with the gift of possibility.

The Stars

Whatever race or religion
We all share a view
When gazing upon the heavens
The stars speak to you
They speak of awesome wonder
They speak of the magnificent grace
Bestowed upon each of us
As we travel through this space

As winter’s chill now enters
When gazing up on high
It’s easy for all to question
About the reason why
And while we await an answer
It’s never far away
Love each precious moment
Is what the stars have to say

The world we live in presents many challenges and hardships. There are plenty of reasons to feel overwhelmed at times. Hopefully, those unseen things can guide you through. Our existence is so much more than the sum of parts. I wish you peace and a joyous time of year. See you soon – Bob

P.S. Tom Hanks plays Fred Rogers in a new movie titled A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood. One of Mr. Rogers’ favorite quotes was taken from The Little Prince (the one earlier referred to). Our neighborhoods would be even more beautiful if we could find a little more time for unseen things.

 

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Bill Pett
Bill Pett
December 5, 2019 6:53 pm

My thought–Spirituality is when you look at a dust dancing in the air and you know you’re seeing god. (Of course, I am a pantheist.)

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