’The only journey is the one within.’
– Rainer Maria Rilke (1875–1926), known as Rainer Maria Rilke, was an Austrian poet and novelist. Regarded as a unique and emotive poet, he is highly regarded as a prominent figure in German literature. Critics and scholars interpret his work as having mystical elements, delving into themes of personal perception and skepticism. His literary repertoire consists of a novel, numerous poetry collections, and various correspondence volumes.
What does it mean to truly know oneself, to embark on a journey within? As I sit here, reflecting on my last four Life Senses columns in December, during this first week of Advent, I have realised more that this journey is not just a personal endeavour; it is a grace-filled quest that intertwines my relationships with God, me, and others.
Dear readers, when we think about the idea of a journey, most of us may picture grand landscapes, exciting adventures, and maybe wandering through lush green forests or bustling city streets. However, what if I may share with you that the most profound journey we could embark on is the one that leads us within? The ‘Journey Within’ is a metaphorical expedition to explore our thoughts, emotions, beliefs, and values. It is about understanding ourselves on a deeper level and realizing that the answers we seek often reside in the quiet corners of our hearts.
The name ‘Journey Within’ resonates deeply with me for several reasons. Firstly, life often feels like a series of external pursuits: my entrepreneurship, my friendships and my ambitions. But the true essence of our existence is in the internal dialogue we maintain. It’s about peeling back the layers that society and life experiences have placed upon us to reveal the beautiful core that God created. This sharing represents a profound recognition that, to grow outwardly, we must first delve inwardly.
As the year draws to a close and I transition into my 50th year, I find myself increasingly aware of the importance of this journey within. It is not just about turning a new age after five decades of existence; it is about maturing in God’s loving grace, in his wisdom and character. This is the way, probably the only way, to make my 50th year truly golden. Our relationships — with ourselves, God, family, or society—thrive when grounded in self-awareness and self-love. Many of us stumble through life struggling with connections because we fail to nurture our relationship with ourselves. The journey within is a reminder that our worth is not contingent on approval from others but rooted in the acceptance of ourselves.
Personal growth is a continuous process, and I have come to appreciate the facets of life that contribute to our evolution. My relationships, for instance, undergo a deeper and more beautiful transformation when I engage deeply in this journey. I have learned that being present, truly listening, and empathizing stems from a well-nourished self. As I embrace this journey, my relationships flourish, infused with authenticity and vulnerability.
Empowerment, too, is a significant outcome of this inward exploration. Discovering who I am — my strengths, flaws, and dreams—has enabled me to step into spaces with confidence. It allows me to articulate my thoughts and stand tall in my beliefs without wavering in the face of criticism. The journey within reveals that true power lies not in dominance but in understanding and accepting oneself, allowing for a greater capacity to lead with compassion and empathy.
My attitude has also undergone a metamorphosis through this journey. I’ve become increasingly aware that while we cannot always control our circumstances, we can control our responses. Life’s challenges can be daunting, but my journey has taught me to approach each hurdle with resilience and grace. Turning inward cultivates a spirit that radiates positivity and hope. It’s an empowering consonance that honours my experiences while equipping me to guide others toward their light.
As I navigate through the journey within, I grow closer to God. Persevering in my daily encounters with scripture and a eucharistic lifestyle provides not just solace, but also strength. Sacred words speak to the depths of my heart. Grace both spiritual and sacramental nourishes and lifts me. All these offer me inspiration and guidance, illuminating pathways of understanding. Engaging in this divine dialogue encourages me to be mindful of every interaction, reminding me of the sanctity of a relationship—be it with my creator or fellow beings.
In many ways, this journey can be likened to a treasure hunt. We are the treasure seekers, and within the intricate labyrinth of our minds lies the gold we’ve been searching for—the understanding of who we are and what we truly want out of life. One avenue we can explore is journaling. It’s like having a conversation with ourselves—hands on the typing board, hearts wide open. Sharing how I journey on this, I type down my reflection on each homily, my concerns, fears, aspirations, or the little moments of joy that sprinkle my days. It might feel silly at first, but trust me, it can lead to incredible insights. Psalm 139:14 subtly encourages this process when it says, “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Recognising and documenting our unique qualities can help us embrace who we are, flaws and all.
As our journey deepens, we may encounter discomfort, self-doubt, or unresolved traumas. This is where self-compassion comes into play. We often treat ourselves harshly, but we must learn to extend the same kindness and forgiveness to ourselves that we would offer a friend in distress. After all, isn’t that what love is? Matthew 22:39 reminds us to “love your neighbour as yourself.” The challenge is that we often forget the latter half of this commandment. To truly love others, we must first learn to love ourselves.
Additionally, connecting with a supportive community can provide a perfect balance as we dive deeper into our inner selves. Surrounding ourselves with like-minded individuals can create a safe space for sharing and reflection. Whether engaging in a conversation with God, with my spiritual director, attending workshops, or simply connecting with friends over coffee, these interactions can mirror our internal journeys and offer fresh perspectives.
Yet, it’s essential to remember that this journey within is not a linear path. There will be valleys and peaks, moments of clarity interspersed with confusion. Embrace the process—celebrate small victories and learn from setbacks. As Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us, “For everything there is a season and a time for every matter under heaven.” Everyone’s journey is unique, and it is crucial to honour our timeline.
Ultimately, the real journey within leads us to a fuller life filled with God’s grace. It is crucial not only to engage with ourselves but also to foster genuine connections with our families and those around us, doing so in a divine ambience. Striving for meaningful relationships can often feel overwhelming, especially when many fail in their pursuits due to the neglect of self-relationship. Acknowledge this truth: nurturing love starts from within.
As I march toward my half-century mark, I embrace the significance of growing from within. Every moment spent reflecting and seeking understanding brings me closer to myself, allowing my essence to shine with God’s glory. The beauty of this journey is visible in the way I carry myself—radiating warmth, love, and acceptance; it’s an invitation for others to see and feel the light that I have found.
In the end, the journey within is a sacred pilgrimage of self-discovery and empowerment. It invites us to rise, to embrace our truths, and to live a life authentically adorned with God’s grace. As I close this chapter and look to new horizons, my heart swells with hope and purpose. “The journey within is not merely a destination but a lifelong exploration —
tread it gently, shine our light, and let our spirit be the beacon of grace.”
With my 50th birthday approaching on December 11th, I’m filled with grateful reflections on the incredible people who have shaped my life. In my next column next week, I will dive into the theme “You Are Special!” Let this be my heartfelt tribute to those amazing souls who have touched my life in profound ways.
Till we meet again next Thursday, may I leave you with this thought:
Inward I wander, where shadows play,
Whispers of truth, guide me each day.
With God beside me, I’ll walk this way,
In light and love, I find my stay.
Here is to the journey, both deep and wide,
Where I find my essence, my heart’s true guide.
From within I shine, in His grace, I’ll abide,
The journey within, my spirit’s pride.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the Sarawak Tribune.
