Stopping to smell the roses.
by Donna Henes

Dear Mama Donna,

I went through a traumatic time five years ago and did some major soul searching. I used to run through my life; now I enjoy all that the universe sends me. I see “signs” that I recognize and have an uncanny “gut.” But I still don’t feel that I am on my path and I am wondering: Do we lose our way for a reason?
—Stopping to Smell the Roses

Dear Rosebud,

It seems to me that you are already right smack dab on your path—the path to your self discovery. You just don’t recognize it, because your intended destination has changed over the years. Consequently, you think you are lost. But you are right where you are supposed to be.

You have suffered through a trauma and have recovered. Naturally this would change your outlook and perspective. Plus, you are five years older with more experience and greater wisdom. Our life path is not set in concrete. As we evolve, the path transforms to meet our new needs. As the Irish say, the path rises up to meet us.

You ask if we lose our way for a reason. Personally, I feel that everything in our lives happens for a reason, although it may be not be clear to us at the time. All occurrences—the good, the bad and the ugly—present to us the opportunity to learn a lesson we need to learn. These karmic tutorial sessions may not be fun, but they are essential for the continued growth and enlightenment of our soul. Ultimately, there is no such thing as a bad lesson.

We are pulled off our original plan because we need to make a detour along the way in order to see, hear or learn something important. It seems to me that you have been learning quite a few invaluable life lessons along the trail:

How to recognize signs and omens
How to honor your instincts
How to take time to appreciate life
How to glory at the wonder of it all

In my book, that makes you a spiritual savant. These are the most important lessons life has to teach us, so feel good about all the progress you have made.

Don’t worry. Your path has your name on it —posted large so you can’t miss the turnoff—and it’s patiently waiting for you to stumble upon it. All you have to do is keep your heart and your mind open—as well as your eyes and your ears. There are signs and omens everywhere leading you directly to your destiny. Just follow your gut.

And enjoy the roses that line the trail.

xxMama Donna

Are you cyclically confused? In a ceremonial quandary? Wonder no more. Send your questions to Mama Donna at cityshaman@aol.com